Buying Land and Building Your Dream Home

So you've decided to build that dream home! Whether it's small or big, elaborate or simple, it all starts with selecting the homesite. Choosing the right lot should involve both research and due diligence. A land buyer cannot rely upon either the county or the developer for accurate information about the property. The developer representative ultimately represents the seller (in most cases) and is therefore working in the seller's best interests. The county, although a wealth of information, is not always accurate and should not be your only source of information. The best course of action is to have your own agent/realtor representing YOUR best interests, and most importantly, one who is skilled at selling land and knowledgeable about all the inherent issues land purchasers should be aware of.

The topography of the site is very important and closely linked to your home plan selection. An experienced buyers agent can help you identify the appropriate homesite for a basement plan or a ranch plan, or one that can accommodate a side entry garage. While the developer representative may also be able to guide you on selection - ultimately they have their own agenda. The homesites the developer shows you may be selected based on many criteria besides suitability for YOUR needs. An experienced land agent can make sure that you see all the sites that are suitable, including developer inventory, resale, and even those for sale by owner.

In addition, it is important to have a full and complete idea of costs and expenses when building. The homesite purchase is just one portion of the overall budget. A skilled agent can help you determine the 'all-in' costs when building a custom home, including permits, water/sewage, landscaping, and building costs. Accurately determining the value of the homesite is a major factor in ensuring that you stay on budget and you get the best value for your dollar.

The county or city will also set fees for building permits. Many developers will use a bond for the completion of infrastructure, however the actual cost is paid by the lot user or builder. Not always will a building lot be ready for a structure without additional site construction as in the case of acreage sites when septic and water systems are not yet installed.

Using an experienced agent when purchasing a homesite allows you to reduce obstacles later. Make sure you bring your own representation into a community with an onsite sales office that represents the developer. Your agent should have a proven track record in selling land and homesites, while being able to help you navigate the different issues you need to keep in mind when building a custom home.

If you are interested in building a custom home in Chapel Ridge or the Chatham County area, contact me, Yvonne Beal, East Bridge Realty. Put my proven track record in selling land to work for you!

Yvonne Beal, Realtor, 919-599-9500

East Bridge Realty, Chatham County NC Experts