When it comes to building a house, one of the most important decisions is selecting the right plot of land. Buying land can be a complicated process, and there are several things to keep in mind before making a purchase.
In this article, we will discuss six factors to consider when buying land to build a house.
Table of Contents
Important Things To Consider When Buying Land
Location
The location of the land is one of the most crucial factors to consider. Before buying land, you should think about the area’s accessibility, safety, and convenience. Consider the distance from your workplace, schools, hospitals, and shopping centers.
Also consider the neighborhood’s safety, as well as the availability of public transportation. If the location of the land is not in a desirable location, it may affect the value of the property in the future.
Zoning and Permits
It is important to research the zoning and permits required for the land you plan to buy. The zoning laws regulate the use of land, and it’s important to ensure that the property is zoned for residential use.
Check with the local building department to determine the necessary permits required to build a house on the property. Failure to obtain the proper permits could lead to legal issues in the future.
Soil and Land Quality
The quality of the soil and land is important to consider when buying land. You should evaluate the soil type to determine whether it’s suitable for building a house.
Additionally, check for any environmental concerns, such as flood zones, wetlands, or steep slopes. Poor soil quality or environmental concerns may require additional engineering, which can add to the cost of building your house.
Utilities and Infrastructure
Before buying land, check whether utilities such as electricity, water, and gas are available. If they are not available, you may have to incur additional costs to bring in these utilities.
Make sure the land has access to a sewage system or if you will need to install a septic system. It’s also important to evaluate the accessibility of the land to major roads, and whether the area has reliable internet and cell phone service.
Property Boundary and Easements
It’s important to know the property boundary lines and any easements on the land. Easements are rights granted to others to use a part of your property, such as for utilities, roads, or drainage.
It’s crucial to know the extent of any easements and whether they will impact your plans for the land. You might also want to explore house and land packages by Hotondo Homes.
Cost and Financing
Lastly, consider the cost of the land and whether you can afford it. Before buying, you should also evaluate whether you will need financing and if you qualify for a mortgage.
It’s important to get pre-approved for a mortgage before making an offer on a property. Additionally, factor in other costs such as closing costs, property taxes, and insurance when calculating the total cost of purchasing the land.
