Things To Consider When Looking For Land
Pictured: Seaside Estate, Madora Bay
What could look like a great block to one person can look totally different to an experienced builder. Not many people realise how much extra cost and time can go into a new home build if they choose a block that has several build or council requirements. It is always good to consult a builder before you buy a block to discuss your new home plans and the area you are wanting to build. Especially in this market where land is scarce and prices are increasing, you want to make sure you are equipped with all the information on what a “good” block of land looks like for your future home.
We spoke with our Land and Construction experts to compile the top things to consider when looking for a block.
Prioritise flat and level ground
To ensure you keep site works costs down, opt for as level a block as possible. On first inspection some blocks look really flat, but it’s not until you get a survey done that you can identify the degree of slope a block actually has and the costs associated with fixing that slope. A good rule of thumb is to look at the neighbouring fence lines to see if they drop down at all. If the fence line is straight all the way along, chances are you do in fact have a flat block!
Having a sloped block is not a problem for the builder, it just adds extra costs that you may not have originally expected. As an experienced builder, we can take a look at your proposed lot before you buy to identify any potential costs and determine if your future home plans could work with such a block.
Tip: Land in new land estates have the advantage of lower siteworks because the land developer has thoroughly prepared the land before they list the lots for sale and there is not typically huge slopes.
Consider what is underground
Again, sometimes a block can look really great when you look at it, but what you can’t see is what is happening underground. Especially in established suburbs, where people often subdivide to sell blocks, the underground utilities can often be difficult to reach and have additional costs to run the services to your future home. For example, if you are in an area with overhead power lines, you will have to make sure a power dome is installed.
Tip: Generally in new land estates, your main utilities are all set up and ready to go so you don’t encounter as many surprises when it comes to getting everything connected.
Location, location, location
Whether you are looking for a beach side home, river view abode, or a tree change in the hills, the requirements of your site works and build can differ based on things like soil composition, noise conditions and BAL (bushfire attack level) requirements. If your block is on a busy road, this also may cause extra costs as the builder will need to engage traffic management throughout your entire build.
It is worth being aware of these things when you are block hunting to not only ensure you can build a home in a place you love, but also within your cost and time expectations.
Tip: Your builder can help you obtain an engineers report at the start of the whole process to ensure that you are fully aware of the site works requirements for your block.
Design considerations
Whilst a lot of blocks (especially in new estates) can look the same in terms of size, consider the below elements on the plans:
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Do you know what your block is zoned? Depending on the R-code zoning of your block, you may be restricted with what percentage of the block you may be able to build on, along with the minimum outdoor living space. These along with other council requirements are definitely worth looking into.
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Is there retaining that exists at the front of your block? This will dictate which side your driveway will need to be on, which will then impact where your other rooms will be in the home.
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Which way is the block facing? You want to ensure that your living areas face North, so you’ll be getting the sun in winter and shade in summer and make it more energy efficient.
Chat with our team before you purchase
At the end of the day, we have seen many different types of land since we first started in 1987. We are the experts when it comes to identifying all of the above requirements and will be able to help you find the right land for you and your budget. We want to build you a home that stands the test of time and grows with you for all the days you call it home.
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