Buying land and building your dream home may be part of your American dream. However, it is important that as you look for “land for sale in Suffolk VA,” that you find the right piece of land. Consider these tips as you search for the perfect piece of land.
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Identify your Needs
Your family has needs. You don’t want a piece of land that will not accommodate a larger house if you have a large family, and you may not want a steep incline if anyone in your family is physically disabled. You may also consider healthcare access, school district and travel time and fire/rescue availability.
Determine Your Desired Characteristics
If you are building a home, you want a piece of land that is not only zoned for residential building, but is also near all the things you enjoy doing. For example, if you enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking and fishing, you may not want to purchase land within a subdivision in a large city. Your interests will determine where you begin your land search.
Also, you should identify what features you want in your land. For example, do you want a stream, and should your land be flat or up against national forest land? Also, you should determine your land size and access requirements.
Calculate Your Budget
You should have an idea of how much you are willing to spend on your entire project, the land and building as well as any roads or utility costs. Land with difficult terrain may create construction challenges, increasing your building costs. You may also need reinforced roofs, impact-resistant windows, custom septic systems and erosion control, depending on the location of your land, so keep these added costs in mind.
Surveying and Environmental Testing
Before purchasing a piece of land, you should consider having it surveyed and tested. For example, you need to know the exact boundary lines and topography, as well as the best build sites. Surveys will also reveal utilities that run to and on the property. You may have to pay for the utilities to be extended to your property if they are not already at the property line. Any building restrictions and covenants will also be identified.
Environmental testing will reveal the soil type, air quality, and water resources on the land, including underwater aquifers that may affect building. You should also be aware of local dumps and cemeteries that may have been dug on the land.
If you want to purchase land and build your own home, consider working with an agent who specializes in land purchases.