It's tempting to look for that idyllic location to build
your dream home, but it's best to talk with an AIA architect
first. After discussing your ideas and available resources,
your architect can help you prepare a preliminary budget that
reflects what you want, what you can afford, and what types
of properties might suit both criteria. A little work up-front
can make your search for the right site more efficient, and
can present some unexpected, exciting possibilities. The earlier
in the planning process you consult an architect, the better
you prepare yourself for finding a site that matches your
dreams with reality.
Explore the potential of your site.
The property where you'll build your home may present some
distinct design opportunities and perhaps some hidden hazards.
Your architect can help you unmask the character and potential
costs of your site-before you buy.
For example, you'll probably want to take advantage of a
favorable view and sun exposure while protecting your home
against wind and weather. Are there existing trees on the
site that you'll want to save? Are utilities such as water,
sewer, natural gas, electric, telephone and TV cable available?
How much privacy do you want between your house and the surrounding
community? Which school district services your area? Are there
other costs associated with the site such as traffic impact
fees, homeowner's dues, sewer and water tap fees, landscaping
assessments, snow or trash removal fees? Finally, would purchase
of the property leave you with enough in your project budget
to develop a home? A clear understanding of such factors can
help you make smart decisions in choosing the site for your
new home.
Consider the lay of the land.
Of course, building a new home literally begins at ground
level. The characteristics of the site affect the design and
function of your home. For example, is the geology of the
site primarily sand, rock, or soil? The type of soil could
affect rainwater drainage. Or, if no public sewage system
is available, how well the soil percolates could affect the
function or placement of a septic field. And if no public
water system exists, how likely are you to hit water by drilling
a well?
Can the site support the placement of structures at a reasonable
cost? How will the slope of the site relate to the type of
house you desire, such as a one-story or two-story home with
a walk-out basement? In short, is the land buildable, and
at a reasonable cost? Walk the site with your architect to
learn if your project is feasible and what impact such factors
might have on the site. Doing so also leads to some exciting
design possibilities.
Determine if local zoning and other restrictions will affect
your project. It's important to know if any zoning ordinances
or regulations exist that might restrict development of the
property. These might dictate how much of the property can
be covered by a structure, its height, how far it must be
set back from the property line or roadway, and protection
of existing trees and landscape. Likewise, you'll want to
know about any proposed development of adjacent or nearby
properties, such as new roadways or commercial construction.
Being familiar with the building codes and zoning ordinances
in your area, an AIA architect can help you determine where
these apply to your project, and can assist with filing applications
or obtaining the necessary permits for building your custom
design.
