1. Know your budget
Make sure to know the limit of your budget before you start looking for the perfect land. To find land that suits your best interests but does not suit your pocket can be extremally disapointing and discouraging. So how about keeping your excitation alive for the following steps?
2. Find the right location
Once you know how much you are willing to spend, you can start your research adventure throught the real estate websites. Make sure to filter the prices and locations to your favour.
What lifestyle are you looking for?
Mountains, beach or city?
Hot, cold or fresh weather?
Closer or away from other family members?
Quiet or busy area?
Ask yourself what your preferences are, be fair and honest. It is your investment, your life, your future and your happiness.
3. Pick the ideal shape for the block and think of the soil quality
From a buiders point of view, the ideal block is flat, rectangular and free from abstacles such as rocks and trees. This type of land can have less costs and give you a infinite possibilities for designs.
The type of existing soil in the land is also a important factor. Different types of soil needs different types of preparation when building a foundation. This can directly affect the cost of you construction.
Make sure you understand the different characteristics of each soil type and prevent possible further costs. There are several factors beyond water retention that builders should be aware of, so it’s crucial that you get an expert opinion.
Testing the soil will ensure that you’re not buying a lemon with unknown issues lurking out of sight. A soil test will look at the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil to determine if it’s safe and will help you estimate the stability and land retention of the block.
4. Consider the street profile
Investigate the street, and make sure the following items won’t impact your block, or where you’d like to position your house on the land:
Trees
Power poles
Connections
Hydrants
Footpaths; and
Access ramps.
At some suburbs, all general services like power lines and fire hydrants are located underground, providing you with greater flexibility when it comes to building your home. It’s also important to consider things like the width of the road, car parking for visitors, how busy the street is (and will become), landscaping verges and the general ‘street appeal’.
5. Investigate the conveniences nearby
When you’re choosing a block of land, think about the amenities you would like to have nearby now, and into the future.
How close is it to public transport, your work, local schools, shops, cafes and medical facilities? Having amenities like these near you will not only make life more convenient for you but will also impact the future potential value of your home. Living close to parks, playgrounds and cycling paths also come with many healthy lifestyle benefits.
6. Utility Services
Make sure you are aware of the availability of utility services like power, gas, internet, water and sewage to your plot. Determine whether these provisions are already in place. If they aren’t, find out the costs of having them installed and factor these into your budget.
7. Legal Considerations
It’s vital you consider all the legal obligations that come with buying a block of land. When your intention is to build on the land, the first thing you will have to do is get approval from the local council. Many blocks have covenants that place certain building materials under restrictions. Being aware of these limitations, before you purchase, will enable you to adapt your plans to suit your budget.
8. Look at re-sale values of houses in the area
Make sure to consider the potential value of your home. Check property prices in the area and future planned construction of things like schools and shopping centres, they are a sign that property values will increase.
Conclusion
Finally, get the right builder to guide you through the next steps to your dream house.
Finding a plot of land that you like will require some elbow grease as well as a lot of patience and determination unless you're lucky.