Buying a block of land?- here’s what you need to know

Purchasing a parcel of land to construct your dream home offers unparalleled advantages. It grants you the freedom to craft a residence tailored precisely to your desires. However, navigating the process of finding and acquiring land can be daunting, necessitating careful consideration from the outset.

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To aid in your decision-making process, here are six key points to ponder before committing to a land purchase:

1. Prime Location: The location reigns supreme when selecting land. Optimal proximity to essential amenities such as schools, shops, transport links, and recreational facilities enhances convenience. Anticipating future needs and potential resale value adds foresight to your investment strategy.

2. Land Shape and Size: Land parcels vary in shape, size, and topography, each presenting unique design challenges. Assess your spatial requirements against the block’s dimensions, considering potential garden spaces or outdoor entertaining areas. Factor in construction costs influenced by terrain, tree removal, or drainage considerations. When looking at the block size, shape, and features you should carefully analyse how the home design and construction costs may be impacted, for example:

• A steep block of land that has not been retained will cost more to build upon. Water runoff could also cause a potential issue if the block is located below street level.
• Trees can be expensive to remove, or their removal may be prohibited. It is important to conduct further research in this case.
• Fire and flood risks can affect home insurance policies. You can discuss if your block is at risk with your local council.

Check if there are any easements or council restrictions in place which may affect the use or the resale of the land.

3.Orientation: Consider the orientation of the land, with north-facing aspects often preferred in Australia for optimal sunlight exposure and energy efficiency. Strategic placement of living areas and windows can yield long-term savings on energy bills. What does North Facing mean? When we talk about a north facing orientation we are referring to the direction in which your living areas will be facing, which is typically the rear of the home, we’re not talking about the direction that the front of the home faces!

4. Soil Quality: Conducting a soil test is essential to gauge the land’s foundation suitability. Soil composition varies widely across the region, impacting construction requirements and costs. Investing in a comprehensive soil report safeguards against future structural issues, and having this available before settling on your land will enable you to budget accordingly for the appropriate structural foundation.

5. Zoning Regulations: Research zoning regulations and future development plans to ensure alignment with your intended use of the land. Stay informed about potential changes in regulations that may affect your building plans over time.

6. Utility Accessibility: Verify the availability and cost of connecting essential utilities such as water, gas, electricity, and internet services. Consider additional expenses for rural properties or off-grid solutions, including solar power and water storage.

Navigating the land purchase process should be an exciting endeavour. Selecting the right parcel tailored to your needs and budget promises long-term benefits. In the Wagga/Riverina area, building on purchased land offers savings on stamp duty compared to buying an existing home. Our team is here to assist you in selecting the ideal land and guiding you through a stress-free and transparent building experience. Feel free to reach out for expert assistance, ensuring a smooth journey toward your dream home.

Download our guide below for more helpful information to help you get started on your dream build.