Lot Evaluation Guide


Evaluating the Lot
		Buying land is a tremendous commitment and often creates stress for the buyer. A cautious, thoughtfully considered approach is wise. Although most lots are buildable; occasionally, circumstances prevent a particular piece of land from being viable for its intended use. Appointing an experienced architect to evaluate your selected lot prior to purchase will ensure it meets your requirements. Consider these criteria as you search for an appropriate lot. Initial/Basic Information: Zoning Deed Restrictions Homeowner's associations or architectural committees Response time for ... Fire Police EMS Distance from ... Hospital School Store Lumber company Gas station Swimming hole Parks Bus line Distance from your place of employment? Is the area family friendly? Resale in the area? Distance from closest fire hydrant?

		Less obvious considerations which need attention when selecting a lot include: the zoning of neighboring land, code or zoning variances required in order to build on the land, and the values of neighboring land and houses. Future development must also be considered, including the effect of: Busy/loud/unattractive commercial properties Power plants Large roads Recreation areas Subdivisions Some lots may have unusual ammenties or restrictions. Are there any special restrictions due to fire regulations? Are there any existing permits accompanying the land? Is the local road particularly busy or traffic dangerously fast? Are alternative energy systems prohibited? Considerable cost savings are present if the lot has existing improvements: City Water City Sewer Well Roads Septic Power Phone Pond sites Building sites Existing faults need to be identified: Land fill Potential slides Diseased trees Insect problems Noise problems Pollution problems Flood plain In the Flight Path
Evaluating the dirt
		All dirt is not created equal. The soil conditions at the building site must be considered. Unless the lot is flat and has adequate soil, an engineered septic system is likely to be required. Most engineering companies require a geotechnical survey to determine: Type of soil Load bearing capacity Percolation of the soil Drainage or erosion problems Each lot is unique. The cost of the foundation is effected by: Slope (steep lots are more expensive, but add character) Existing fill Bedrock Boulders Expansive soil Poor drainage Soil slippage Flood plains Accessibility of trucks and equipment What is the soil like for growing? What wildlife lives on the property? Are there restrictions on tree cutting? Are there any natural building materials available? Trees Rocks Sand Adobe clay Gravel
Additional Design Considerations
		What is the natural orientation of the lot? The direction of the prevailing breezes? Will any grading be necessary? Is there sufficient natural drainage? What are the required setbacks? Front Sides Back Will light from approaching cars shine into the house? Will any large trees need to be removed? Can large machinery such as concrete trucks, lumber trucks, and cranes access the site? If noise is a problem, are noise breaks possible, such as trees or earth mounds? What are the available energy sources? Solar Wind Electricity Propane Natural gas And often overlooked, does the lot feel right to you?