How to Choose the Right Block of Land for Your Ideal Home

Buying land is a life changing endeavour. That’s because finding the right piece of land means that you can build your dream kit home. However, there’s a lot of moving parts to be aware of when buying land. 

To help you out, we’ve put together our guide of the top three tips that should be considered with equal weight when buying your block of land. Each tip has been broken down with its own set of key thoughts. That way, when you finally sign on the dotted line, you can be confident in your choice.

1. How to choose a plot of land

When it comes to choosing the perfect plot of land, consider your personal preferences and the budget needed to make these dreams a reality. Highlighting these preferences and monetary restrictions is a great first step as it narrows your search down. 

Determine your budget

A well-thought-out budget is key. Otherwise, you could pay too much for the land and therefore, not have enough money left to build your dream kit home. Additionally, when budgeting, include site costs and stamp duty.

Pick a location

Location factors and how they correspond to your lifestyle and needs is crucial to consider. Do you require access to schools, public transport, and other infrastructure? How far would you be willing to travel to access them?

Conduct soil tests and surveys

The results of soil testing can have a huge impact on the home you build on your chosen parcel of land. With this in mind, we recommend that you conduct a soil test as early as possible. This way, you will know the type of foundation your home will need before any concrete decisions are made.

Consider narrow blocks

You may find a block of land in the perfect location, yet the land is narrow. Instead of going back to the drawing board, research other options such as building upwards. One solution could be building an upwards tiered house or using bi-fold doors to create an indoor-outdoor living space. Engage good designers and landscape architects, as they can create magic – even on a narrow block.

2. Understanding feasibility and zoning restrictions

When it comes to buying land, understanding feasibility, and associated zoning restrictions is the most logical next step to take. This is because information could appear during this phase that either confirms your choice or makes you think twice about the block of land.

Outline the development strategy

In essence, the development strategy involves objectively looking at a block of land and determining its purpose. Will the land be subdivided? Does the existing structure simply need renovating? Does the block of land require a complete re-development? 

Subdividing land

If you’re interested in subdividing, there are some extra steps involved. As every local city Council will have their own building regulations and zoning requirements for subdivided blocks, it’s important to have all the information before any commitments are made.

Once you’ve determined permitted lot sizes, engage a surveyor to draw up the plans. Subdivided lots will generally require registration through the Land Titles Office and it’s also worth noting that those who subdivide as an investment may incur additional taxes.

Contact your local Council

When looking into a piece of land, it’s always important to keep an open dialogue with the local Council. This way, you can have a walk through with a representative from Council, highlighting your plans and learning what is possible before you’ve made a purchase commitment. 

Use a reputable agent

A reputable agent with a sound knowledge of building a home in the relevant local area can provide invaluable information. For example, the agent will be able to explain what kit home you may build on the land and what materials you’ll be able to use. 

An agent can also provide clear information regarding the zoning rules and regulations pertaining to the piece of land. Additionally, they can discuss information around Council rates.

Double-check boundaries and restrictions

At this stage, it’s worth having the boundaries of the piece of land measured by a registered surveyor. It’s also important to check if the land has easements for sewerage, drainage, and electricity services. 

3. The orientation of your home

When buying land, it’s also important to consider aspects of orientation and how they may affect different parcels of land. Otherwise, you may build a house that is freezing cold in winter and boiling hot in summer. 

What is home orientation?

The principles of home orientation revolve around orienting key house features such as windows and doors in a way that helps maximise the natural climate that surrounds your home.

Good home orientation is king. In fact, the right orientation can, in most cases, significantly improve comfort levels while also reducing heating and cooling needs and the associated costs. With year-round comfort on the line, getting the orientation right is make-or-break. 

It’s important to note that there are other factors to consider. Namely, assessing your block of land to see how conditions such as wind, light and airflow affect the property. With this information on hand, you can then design your kit home accordingly. 

Home orientations in Australia

Each region of Australia plays host to different weather patterns. In some areas, you’ll want to orientate for maximum cooling, while in other areas, you will need maximum heating.

To help with your decision, consider the solar track. For example, in the Southern Hemisphere, the solar track begins with the sun appearing in the east before tracking north and finally disappearing in the west.

This means that the north face of the home will receive the most direct sunlight while the south face will seldom see sunlight. Meanwhile, the east face of the home will enjoy sunlight in the morning, whereas the west face will see sunlight in the late afternoon.

Start your home building journey with Kitome

Buying land is a journey. With so many different aspects to consider, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. To bring more joy into the process, we recommend that you research the various aspects that encompass buying land as outlined above. 

By being well prepared, you can be confident that the piece of land you choose can in fact house your dream kit home, complete with the perfect orientation. Once you’ve found your piece of land, it’s time to get designing. Contact us today to let Kitome guide you through the journey.