Selecting a New Home Site

Just as important as choosing the home plan you want to build is choosing the lot upon which to build it. Which is of greater importance-the space or the place-is ultimately up to you. Some people have their hearts set on a particular design and search for a site to accommodate it. Others fall in love with a piece of ground, usually for its neighborhood location or its spectacular view or other natural amenities, and look for a house that complements it. What's most important is that you carefully scrutinize and research your lot before you buy it.

Many of the issues you need to consider when selecting a home site have little to do with the land and everything to do with lifestyle.
Here are some key points to consider when choosing your new homesite:

1. Desirable school district?
2. Shorter commute to and from work
3. Property taxes for the area
4. Parks, lakes and recreation facilities
5. Proximity of Shopping
6. Zoning requirements and limitations
7. Homeowners' associations, fees and lot improvement responsibility
8. Will the home I want to build fit on the lot?
9. Availability of public utilities
10. Cable, internet, satellite
11. Room for swimming pool, recreation, boat
12. What was the land used for in the past? Cause for concern?
13. Can they build a shopping mall on adjoining lots?
14. Water drainage - 100 year flood plain
15. Have a lawyer look over any purchase agreement or contract before you sign it