One of the first steps in building a custom home is buying a lot, but you can’t build a house on just any piece of land. Numerous legal and practical regulations dictate where you can build and what kind of home is permitted.
Don’t make the mistake of jumping into a land purchase without doing your research. Be sure to ask these critical questions before buying a piece of property:
1. Where are the property lines?
Don’t rely on the seller to tell you where the property lines are—they may not know or could be mistaken. Always commission a professional boundary survey from a reputable surveyor to protect your investment.
2. What is the zoning?
Property zoning typically falls into residential, agricultural, or commercial categories. Zoning laws determine whether you can build a house on the land, what size is permitted, and where on the property you can place it. Because of setbacks and easements, the actual buildable area might be much smaller than the total lot size.
3. Will it pass a perc test?
A perc (percolation) test evaluates whether the soil has adequate drainage to support a septic system. This is especially vital for rural properties not connected to municipal sewage. Always make a successful perc test a contingency of your purchase contract.
4. Is there frontage on a public road?
“Landlocked” properties that do not border a public road require legal easements for access, meaning you would rely on rights-of-way across neighboring properties. Having direct frontage on a public road simplifies access and is essential for placing your own driveway.
5. How close are public utilities?
Buying raw land often means connecting to distant public electricity, water, or sewage lines. Investigate these extension costs before purchasing. If you are looking at a more rural property, you will need to budget for drilling a private water well and installing a septic system.
6. Are there environmental restrictions, HOAs, or impact fees?
Check whether the property is subject to wetlands protection, tree-save ordinances, or strict HOA guidelines that could dictate your home’s design. Additionally, don’t forget to ask local utility providers about tap and connection fees—knowing lines are nearby is the first step, but understanding actual hookup costs prevents budget surprises later.
Let an Expert Help You Decide
The best advice is to have an experienced builder like Maison XI evaluate your desired building lot before you sign a purchase agreement.
Maison XI offers free lot evaluations for land throughout Northern Virginia and Central Maryland. We can help you determine if the property you’re considering is truly the right place to bring your vision to life.
Call us today at 703-775-4663 (HOME) to schedule your free lot evaluation!