Lot Purchase Considerations

Choosing the right lot is one of the most important tasks associated with the building of a new home. Here are some considerations to help with the process.

Personal considerations:

• Do you like the land and the surrounding area?

• How is the view?

• How is it oriented for the sun? The east is a nice side for the morning areas of your house, the west is preferred for the screened porch and dining room. A main view towards the north is desirable. The midday sun of course, will be south.

• How far to your favorite activities: shopping, ski, golf, water, etc...

  Physical considerations:

• What is the slope of the land? Can it have a walkout basement?

• Is there a good natural platform for the building placement?

• Locate a natural flat area for the septic field.

• Determine where the driveway and parking would run.

• What services are required? Most virgin lots require well, septic system, power, telephone, driveway.

• If possible, determine what are the soil conditions of the site. Most mountain lots have bedrock not far from surface. Look at past excavated areas such as road ditches to see a cross-section of the soil. If there is an existing structure look at how its foundation is implanted.

• If possible, find the location of the neighbour's well, it can affect the placement of your septic system.

  Municipal considerations:

• What are the set-back restrictions?

• Does the property come under the jurisdiction of certain environmental laws? Are there home owners or architectural committees to be consulted?

• Are there any easements or right of ways across or attached to the property?

• Is the road to the property municipally serviced?

• What are the land taxes?

• Is there a survey plan of the property?

• You can get this information by communicating with the municipal building department or engaging a surveyor or Maisons Roco to do the research for you.

Tip:

Be equipped when visiting a potential lot. This includes:

• Hiking boots (snowshoes for winter)

• Lot plan

• Paper & pen

• Tape measure

• Surveyor's ribbon and/or stakes

• Compass

• Camera

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