“5 Key Considerations When Buying Undeveloped Land”
Are you ready to embark on the exciting journey of buying undeveloped land to build your dream home? Choosing the perfect piece of land is crucial in realizing your vision. In this post, I will share five key considerations we took when purchasing land to build our forever home. Don’t forget to read how we got here.
Location:
When we were considering the location of our land, we wanted to ensure that it was situated in an area that would provide easy access to our children’s schools and nearby shopping centers.
In addition, we also wanted the location to have well-maintained roads suitable for both construction and everyday vehicle use. We knew that finding the right location would be crucial in building our future home, and we were determined to take the time to make the best possible decision.
The property was heavily wooded, so we knew we would have to clear a lot of the timber leading to the back of the property.
2. Zoning and Regulations:
Secondly, familiarize yourself with the zoning regulations and land-use restrictions in the area where the land is located. Determine if the land is zoned for residential construction and if there are any specific building codes or permit requirements. Understanding these regulations upfront will prevent potential hurdles during the building process.
We were able to access most of this information online at our county’s Register of Deeds Office. I was able to find land surveys, property records, and deeds, which is super helpful for giving the most history of the property. Even though the land was undeveloped at the time, I was still able to see the history of the property for the last 50 years, which was helpful and so neat to see how it evolved over that time.
3. Topography and Land Features:
Then, it’s time to evaluate the land’s topography and natural features. Look for level terrain suitable for building and landscaping. Consider the presence of slopes, water bodies, wetlands, or protected areas that may impact construction or require special permits. Choose a land layout that aligns with your architectural plans and design preferences.
The property did have a slight slope from front to back, as there was a creek at the back of the 20 acres. It was hard to tell what soil we were dealing with due to the pine straw and debris that covered the forest floor. In our best interest, we requested a preliminary soil test from the owner. Do your homework. You must certify that your land will perk. This is a percolation test, digging holes in the soil of the proposed septic drain fields to a certain depth.
Thankfully the soil was "perfect" according to the soil scientist!
4. Utilities:
Check the availability of essential utilities such as water, electricity, gas, and sewage systems. Determine if these utilities are already on-site or if you’ll need to arrange for connections. If they are not readily available, consider the cost and feasibility of installing them. We knew we would need a well, septic system, and electricity. As a precaution, before any decisions were made, we did our due diligence and contacted the utility companies to see who served the area.
5. Future Developments Resale
When considering investing in a property, it’s important to research potential future developments in the surrounding area. This will help you to understand how these developments may impact the value of your property over time. Choosing a location with favorable growth potential can enhance your investment and resale value.
At the beginning of our search, we were worried about this very issue. However, we were lucky enough to find a beautiful road lined with trees and rolling fields, with residential homes sitting on large plots of land. It was perfect for us as we desired a more peaceful and rural setting.
Our community is growing rapidly, and our property sits at the edge of some of the remaining rural areas. We thought that this would be the ideal location for us, as it’s tranquil and just far enough away from the hustle and bustle. What’s more, our possible new neighbors seem to share our values and vision for maintaining the area’s integrity.
Lastly when buying when buying undeveloped land for your dream home, consider these five key factors: location and accessibility, zoning and regulations, topography and land features, utilities, and future development. Consulting with real estate professionals, architects, and local authorities can help ensure a smooth and successful land acquisition process. Also, check out the book “Are You Thinking of Buying Land for Your New Construction Dream Home?” for critical points you must know as a first-time real estate buyer. Happy hunting!
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