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Location, Location, Location:  Why Choosing the Right Lot is Critical for Your New Custom Home Build

At Hostetler Family Homes, we believe one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the location for your new custom home. The location you choose will have a significant impact on your lifestyle, your home’s value, and your long-term satisfaction with your investment. That’s why it’s essential to take a systematic approach to selecting a building lot location that meets your unique needs and preferences. Here’s a complete checklist of considerations to keep in mind as you evaluate potential locations.

Neighborhood

Consider the overall quality of the neighborhood, the proximity to schools, shopping, and other amenities, and the level of traffic and noise. Evaluate the accessibility of the lot, including the proximity to major roads, highways, and public transportation. Take a drive through the neighborhood at different times & days to get a feel for the patterns, determining if this location will best suit your family’s lifestyle and needs. 

Comparable Homes & Tax Rates

Comparing homes and tax rates when considering where to build a new custom home is important because it helps you make an informed decision about the overall cost of living in a particular area.  Understanding the cost-benefit analysis will help ensure you are getting the best value for your investment. Comparing homes will give you an idea of what features and amenities are available in different areas, allowing you to find a location that meets your needs and lifestyle.  Tax rates can vary, and it is important to know how they will impact your budget.

Zoning

Check with local zoning laws and regulations to make sure the land you are considering can be used for the purpose you have in mind. It will be important to research the area’s outlook for growth. If there are vacant areas around you, will there be potential for development, both residential and commercial?

Topography & Soil

Evaluate the terrain of the lot, including any slopes or hills, to make sure it can accommodate the type of home you want to build. Check the soil quality and type to ensure that it is stable enough to support your home’s foundation and to avoid drainage issues. Consider environmental factors that may impact your home’s value or your quality of life, such as flood zones, wetlands, or protected species habitats.

Utilities

Determine if the land has access to utilities such as water, gas, electricity, and sewer lines. If not, find out what the cost and feasibility of installing these utilities will be,  whether private well or septic.

Views

Consider the view from the lot, including the scenery and any potential obstructions. Will your home face North, South, East or West? You will want to evaluate the lot’s exposure to sunlight to determine how it will impact your home’s energy efficiency and natural lighting.

Legal Considerations

Check for any legal considerations, such as easements or encumbrances, that may impact your ability to build or use the land.

Establish a Budget

Evaluate the cost of the land, including any fees, taxes, and other expenses associated with the purchase and development of the property. It will be important to include the possibility of a Homeowner Association Fee if your location is within a development or Subdivision. 

Don’t Get Lost in the Lot Selection Process- Let Us Guide You Home

By keeping these factors in mind and using this checklist, you can make a well-informed decision when choosing a building lot location in Northeast Ohio. If you’re still uncertain or would like assistance, contact Hostetler Family Homes today! We will be happy to help guide you through the process and provide valuable insight.  With years of experience, we understand Location is the most important decision you will make in the process of building your dream home on the perfect property, to create memories and build your legacy for years to come.

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