If you’ve been thinking a lot about custom building your dream home, you probably realize that you can’t do much until you find a lot to build on. But finding the best lot to build your dream home on isn’t necessarily all that easy. Here are a few handy tips to help you find the best lot for your home construction.
Think About Where You Want to Live
Maybe you desire to live in a particular neighbourhood or live close to family, friends, school, or work. Or you may be open to living practically anywhere in town as long as you’ll have a great view.
Make a list of your location needs and start looking for lots in those areas.
Look Into Zoning & Other Restrictions
If you have plans to build a large home, have a pool, do certain types of landscaping, or anything else beyond building a basic house, you should look into local bylaws first. You need to make sure that you can build what you have in mind on your lot and if you require any permits first. There will likely also be rules about blocking other people’s views and taking down any trees.
Check with the municipal office in the area you wish to build in to ask about any home construction restrictions. Some municipalities also have specific hours and times you can’t build during, so make sure you know all the rules before buying the lot.
Check the Lot at Different Times of the Day
You must visit the lot a few times and do a good walk around to get a feel of where things will roughly be located. You’ll want to check sun exposure, how level the property is, and what type of views you’ll have. It’s also important to listen for traffic and other noise you may hear during certain times.
Take a walk around the neighbourhood to get a feel for the other homes, walkability, and the distance to amenities like shopping, bus stops, parks, and schools.
Consider Your Current Lot
Although you want a new custom-built home, you may still love the location of your current home. So why not consider building your new home on that lot? A couple of things to think about, though: you’ll still need to look into your local bylaws for restrictions and rules, and building on your current lot can be stressful. You’ll either have to do your new home construction next to your current home or move out while your home is being re-built. However, it could certainly be an option to consider.
Talk to Your Builders & Other Professionals
Showing your home designers and builders your potential lot(s) and plans is an excellent idea before buying. They may have some insight as to whether your dream home will work on that lot, or if you might encounter other barriers. You may need to find another lot or change up some things about your home construction plans.
At Bennefield Construction, our experienced designer and home builders can help you decide if the lot you’re looking at is the right location for the home construction you have in mind. And we’ll work with you to make sure you get your dream home exactly where you want. Contact us today with any questions or to get started.