Real Estate Blog

October 25, 2022

12 Factors to Consider Before Buying Land to Build a House

Here we are, you are going to build your house! Now you just have to find the land. Simple, right? Well, don’t be too hasty: buying land to build a house takes time and effort. Here are the 12 factors to consider before making an offer.

1. The Location You already know whether you want to live in the city, the suburbs, or the countryside. Now it’s time to choose the right location before you buy a lot. Consider the commute time to work and the distance to grocery stores and other services. Do you want to live by the water or have access to the water? Have a clear idea of your requirements for the location before you start your search. Finally, consider the direction of the land to evaluate the amount of sun you will receive.

2. The Neighbourhood To add value to your home, it is important that it be surrounded by homes of equal size. If you are thinking of building a small, modest house, it will not look good in a neighbourhood of castles. Its value will be diminished. It is essential to choose your future neighbourhood carefully.

3. The Area Do you need a large yard to install a pool or build a children’s play area? Do you want to have some privacy thanks to the size of your yard? Do you prefer a smaller, more easily maintained yard?

4. The Topography Depending on how you want to use your land, you may want to choose a sloped lot, a riverfront lot, or a very flat lot to build a garden.

5. The Presence of Wetlands or Flood Zones If the land you want includes wetlands, you may be limited in what you can build or develop. Similarly, you may have to build your home on a less pleasant section of land. If it is a flood zone, you may have to rethink your plans.

6. The Zoning and Regulations Does your project comply with the zoning and regulations in effect? Consult the municipality to make sure everything is in order. Another factor to consider is that some municipalities require construction to begin within a set time frame. Is this good for you? Finally, make sure your project meets the municipality’s architectural standards, i.e., its Architectural Integration Plan. A house may have to meet a certain style and size in a particular neighbourhood.

7. The Access to Municipal Services Is the desired property connected to municipal services (water and sewer)? If not, what are the municipality’s plans?

8. The Connection to the Electrical Network. Does the Hydro-Quebec network reach the land you are interested in buying? If not, is it possible to obtain a connection?

9. The Access to the Internet The most beautiful lot will lose its charm if you discover that you have no access to the Internet or that the access is awful. Who can really do without the Internet for business or leisure?

10. The Easements Are you able to live with the constraints posed by existing or future easements?

11. Can You Build a House on the Lot? If your land is in a wetland zone, you may not be allowed to build on it. The same applies if the land is contaminated, if the area is too small or if the land does not have access to the street.

12. The Investment Potential While making your plans, don’t forget to consider the resale value of your property. If you ever decide to sell your home, its location will have a significant impact on the selling price. This means that you need to consider the location of your land to maximize the value of your investment.

Ask for Help

Buying land to build a house may seem simple, but there are many pitfalls. To avoid any problems and disappointments, team up with a real estate broker. They will help you define your needs and guide you in your search.


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