Tips when buying land
7 considerations when buying land for your build
When building a home, it all starts with your block of land. There are a number of aspects that affect costs, design, build time and more. We’ve put together some of the most important keys to consider when looking to purchase a block which you can easily investigate yourself or ask your land agent. Further still, having this information to hand will assist your nominated builder when working with you to choose a home design.
1. Is the land registered?
Registered land has been processed through the Land Titles Office and essentially means it can be built upon immediately. Unregistered land is similar to “buying off the plan” and the time until registration can vary and postpone your building timeline.
2. Covenants
Almost all homes in new land estates will have design requirements to adhere to, so as not to diminish the surrounding land value. Setbacks, fencing, external finishes and even building materials may be stipulated.
3. Bushfire zoning
Homes to be constructed in bushfire-prone areas have additional constructions requirements to ensure their improved safety. Your Local Council can identify whether your block is in a designated area.
4. Site fall
Rule of Thumb: The more level the land, the more affordable to build on!
Some builders may be unable to build on blocks that have substantial fall. The type of home you wish to build may also be impacted – slab on ground versus pole home.
5. Soil type and presence of fill
The type of foundation design your home will require will largely depend upon the type of soil it is to be built on. Soil tests performed by qualified professionals can determine this for you and your builder.
6. Essential services
Is your block connected to town water and sewerage? How is stormwater to be treated? NBN? Remember to factor in water tanks, household sewerage treatments (septic) and rubble pits if necessary.
7. Setbacks and building envelope
A building envelope indicates where structures can be built on a block of land which best protects, or has the least impact on, the amenity of neighbours, aesthetics and character of the neighbourhood. Your building envelope can be found within your land contract or you can request this from the developer.