Based in Newtown, CT Kling Brothers Builders are custom home builders contractors in Connecticut, specializes in building custom homes or renovating existing properties according to the specific needs and desires of their clients. Choosing the perfect lot for your custom home is a crucial step in the building process, as it will influence the design, cost, and long-term enjoyment of your home. Here’s how to ensure you make the right decision:
1. Determine Your Priorities
Before starting the search, define your priorities. Consider factors such as proximity to work, schools, shopping, medical facilities, and recreational activities. Think about lifestyle preferences like living in a quiet rural area or in a vibrant suburban community.
2. Consider Lot Size and Shape
The size and shape of the lot directly affect the design of your home. A narrow lot may limit the types of home designs you can build, while a larger lot provides more flexibility. Think about the outdoor space you want (gardens, pools, or patios) and whether the lot size accommodates those desires.
- Lot Shape: Irregular shapes may require more creative architectural solutions, but they can also provide unique design opportunities.
- Lot Size: Larger lots offer more privacy and space, but also come with higher maintenance costs and more landscaping responsibilities.
3. Topography and Grading
The slope or topography of the lot plays a significant role in the design of your custom home. A flat lot is easier and more cost-effective to build on, but a sloped lot can offer dramatic architectural opportunities, such as walk-out basements or homes with elevated views.
- Flat Lots: Easier and cheaper to build on but may lack visual interest.
- Sloped Lots: Offer opportunities for unique home designs and stunning views, but may require more extensive foundation work and landscaping, which can increase costs.
4. Orientation and Sunlight
Consider how the lot is oriented in relation to the sun. A lot with good southern exposure will bring more natural light into your home, which can reduce energy costs and make spaces feel more open and bright.
- North-South Orientation: Often ideal for maximizing sunlight exposure in living spaces.
- East-West Orientation: May offer beautiful sunrise or sunset views, but can result in more direct sunlight in the mornings or afternoons, affecting the interior temperature and lighting.
5. Utilities and Infrastructure
Make sure essential utilities like water, electricity, gas, and sewage are easily accessible from the lot. If these are not already available, adding them can significantly increase your building costs.
- City Services: In urban or suburban lots, utilities are usually pre-installed.
- Rural Lots: You may need to drill a well, install a septic system, or run electrical lines over a longer distance, which can be costly.
6. Zoning and Building Restrictions
Check the zoning regulations and local building codes for the lot. These regulations may limit what and how you can build, including the height of your home, the distance from the property line, and the type of construction allowed.
- Zoning Laws: These govern land use and can dictate whether the lot is zoned for residential, agricultural, or commercial use.
- HOA Rules: If the lot is within a community governed by a homeowners association, there may be restrictions on home size, exterior design, landscaping, and more.
7. Environmental Considerations
Environmental factors like drainage, soil type, and potential natural hazards (flood zones, earthquake risk, etc.) should be examined carefully.
- Drainage: Ensure proper drainage to avoid water pooling or flooding, especially if the lot is in a low-lying area.
- Soil Quality: Soil tests can determine the stability and suitability for construction. Unstable soil may require costly foundation work.
- Natural Hazards: Research flood plains, wildfire risk, and other environmental dangers that could impact your property or insurance costs.
8. Neighborhood and Community
Look beyond the lot itself and evaluate the surrounding neighborhood and community. Consider factors like:
- Safety: Research crime rates and the overall safety of the area.
- Schools: If you have or plan to have children, the quality of nearby schools may be a major factor.
- Future Development: Investigate future development plans in the area. While a rural lot may offer privacy now, nearby land could later be developed into a bustling commercial or residential area.
- Community Amenities: Check for nearby parks, shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. These features contribute to long-term enjoyment and the resale value of your home.
9. Access and Transportation
Ensure the lot is easily accessible. Consider how close it is to major roads, public transportation, and whether you’ll encounter any traffic noise.
- Commute Time: Choose a lot that allows for a reasonable commute to work or school.
- Public Transportation: If being close to public transit is important, make sure to check nearby options.
- Road Conditions: Make sure the roads leading to the lot are well-maintained and easily navigable year-round.
10. Views and Privacy
A lot with a beautiful view can significantly enhance the enjoyment of your home. Additionally, consider the level of privacy the lot provides.
- Scenic Views: Consider views of mountains, lakes, or forests, but remember these often come with higher lot prices.
- Privacy: Look for lots surrounded by natural barriers like trees or hills, or ones that are set back from neighboring properties.
11. Cost of the Lot
Budget is a major consideration when choosing the perfect lot. Remember to factor in the costs of preparing the lot for building, such as clearing trees, grading the land, and installing utilities.
- Lot Price vs. Preparation Costs: A cheaper lot may come with higher preparation costs, while a more expensive, ready-to-build lot may be easier on your budget in the long run.
- Financing: Ensure you have financing in place not only for the lot itself but also for the construction costs associated with the specific lot features.
12. Long-Term Resale Value
Even if you plan to live in your custom home for years, consider the long-term resale value of the property. Lots in desirable locations, with good schools, safe neighborhoods, and beautiful views, tend to hold or increase their value over time.
By evaluating these factors and balancing your needs, desires, and budget, you can choose the perfect lot for your custom home, ensuring it complements your dream home design and lifestyle. Kling Brothers Builders specialize in constructing unique, one-of-a-kind homes tailored to the preferences and requirements of individual clients.
Contact us today at (203) 515-2335 to schedule a consultation! You can click the following link to view our many 5-star Houzz Reviews.