Richardson Built: Atlanta Custom Home Builder https://richardsonbuilt.com High Performance Craftmanship Mon, 24 Mar 2025 17:12:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://richardsonbuilt.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/nail-2-150x150.png Richardson Built: Atlanta Custom Home Builder https://richardsonbuilt.com 32 32 Construction Budget: How Much Will It Cost https://richardsonbuilt.com/construction-budget-how-much-will-it-cost/ Sat, 22 Mar 2025 14:45:26 +0000 https://richardsonbuilt.com/?p=710 The 4 Control Layer: A Guide to a Comfortable Home https://richardsonbuilt.com/the-4-control-layer-a-guide-to-a-comfortable-home/ Sat, 22 Mar 2025 12:40:18 +0000 https://richardsonbuilt.com/?p=690 Preparing your Land for Construction: Site Prep https://richardsonbuilt.com/preparing-your-land-for-construction-site-prep/ Fri, 21 Mar 2025 23:04:07 +0000 https://richardsonbuilt.com/?p=665 Choosing a Homesite https://richardsonbuilt.com/how-to-choose-a-homesite/ Fri, 21 Mar 2025 23:02:24 +0000 https://richardsonbuilt.com/?p=663

CHOOSING A HOMESITE

 

Selecting a homesite for your home is an exciting and significant decision within the home-building process. Shaping your daily living experience for years to come, the right site can enhance your home’s beauty, functionality, and energy efficiency, while a poorly chosen lot can present challenges that impact everything from the cost of construction to your long-term enjoyment. With so many factors to consider, it’s essential to evaluate every detail carefully before making a commitment. Below are 8 key factors to consider that will guide you in selecting the perfect homesite for your dream home as well as a home assessment checklist to use while looking for and comparing homesites.

1. Location

  • Proximity to Work/School: How far is the site from your job, school, and family or friends? Being close to daily activities can make your life more convenient.
  • Neighborhood: Look into the neighborhood’s quality, safety, and amenities (parks, shops, restaurants, etc.). Is the area growing or stable?
  • Accessibility: Consider how easy it is to get to main roads, highways, and public transport options if needed.

2. Topography and Terrain

  • Slope: A flat lot can save money on foundation work, while a sloped lot may offer great views but require more engineering to build on.
  • Soil Quality: Some soil types are better for construction than others. A soil test can reveal if there are any issues with drainage, stability, or potential risks.
  • Flooding Risk: Is the lot in a floodplain? Check the FEMA flood map to avoid problems in rainy seasons.

3. Views and Privacy

  • Views: Consider the surrounding landscape. Do you want mountain, lake, or city views, maybe a clear view of your pool and landscaping? Keep in mind how the views might change with future development or trees growing.
  • Privacy: Is the homesite secluded, or are there other properties nearby? You might want privacy from neighbors, especially if you plan to have a pool, outdoor living space, or large windows.

4. Utilities and Infrastructure

  • Water and Sewer: Make sure the site has access to water and sewer services or that it’s possible to install a septic tank and well.
  • Electricity and Gas: Verify that utilities like electricity, gas, and internet are readily available or easy to install.
  • Road Access: Confirm that there are well-maintained roads leading to the site, especially if you plan to build in a remote area.

5. Zoning and Regulations

  • Zoning Laws: Research local zoning laws to understand restrictions like building height, lot coverage, and setbacks. These will impact your home’s design.
  • Permitting: Are there any building codes or permits you need to be aware of before construction begins? Make sure you can legally build what you want on the site.

6. Cost Considerations

  • Site Preparation: Consider how much it will cost to clear the land, remove trees, or level the lot. If the terrain is rocky or uneven, it might raise the cost of site prep.
  • Land Price: Compare the land price with others in the area to ensure you’re paying a fair market value. Be mindful of additional costs for utilities and infrastructure.
  • Long-Term Investment: Is this land likely to appreciate over time? If you’re planning to sell later, consider the long-term value of the location.

7. Future Growth and Development

  • Development Plans: Check with local planning authorities to see if there are any upcoming developments or changes planned in the area that could affect the site’s value or livability.
  • Long-Term Considerations: Consider how the area might change over time—new businesses, roads, schools, or even large construction projects might affect your peace and quiet or property value.

8. Environmental Factors

  • Environmental Hazards: Be aware of natural risks in the area like wildfires, earthquakes, hurricanes, or landslides.
  • Ecological Impact: Some lots might be in a protected environment or have certain wildlife considerations, which could limit your design or building plans.
To assist you in making an informed and quality homesite selection, click below to access our comprehensive Homesite Assessment Checklist. This valuable tool is the same detailed assessment we use when acquiring land, ensuring you have the insights needed for a successful decision
Homesite Assesement Checklist
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