What do I need to consider?
There are a lot of things to take into account when you’re choosing a block. Some of them are only relevant in obscure circumstances, others may determine whether you can build at all. You can discuss many of these issues with your builder, but it’s still worth understanding what’s involved.
Size, shape, orientation and slope of the block of land
Got a particular house style or design in mind? It’s not normally a problem on bigger plots, but in suburban and urban areas, the width and depth of the plot will determine what sort of house you can build.
Likewise, if the plot is on a significant slope, either the land will need to be cut and filled, or you’ll need to build a house that takes that slope into account. It’s worth remembering that while these things might make your house more spectacular, they’re also likely to cost a bit more.
Easements, rights of way and access
An ‘easement’ is defined as a service (eg: sewerage, telephone line) that exists on you block.
Easements on a block of land will affect how you’re able to build, and you will need to understand what kinds of easements exist on a parcel of land before you buy it.
Existing roads and access to essential services
If you’re building in a newer or more sparsely populated area, you’ll need to take into account how and when basic services will be provided to the block if they are not there already. While this obviously includes roads (which you’ll need to get construction gear in unless you’ve got a very impressive helicopter), it also includes things like sewage pipes and water supply, electricity supply, natural gas, telephone lines and broadband internet.
Restrictions on how you can build
Different councils can have very different rules, which can limit how you build. There may be Building Covenants about what style of house you can build, what colours and materials are appropriate, where on the block you can situate your house and even what kind of fence you can have (among other things).
Visit your chosen block at different times of the day, both on weekdays and on the weekend and take in everything that’s going on in your new neighbourhood. It is also a great way to meet your new neighbours.
What Next?
As soon as you have your finances in order and you’ve settled on your dream block of land you’re going to build on, it’s time get the ball rolling and speak to your preferred builder.
Before long you will be living in your brand new home and having a BBQ in the back yard with your family and friends – enjoy the Journey.