Straight answer…no, you do not need to have a block selected before finding a builder. In fact, you may even want to select a builder first.
While you may have found the perfect building site before you even considered building, most people begin the building process still searching for the ideal location to build their new home. A good builder has the resources, to help you find the perfect building site.
What advice can a builder offer you about lot selection?
1.) Potential Expenses – If a builder has previously built in a particular area or subdivision, they may be aware of unexpected expenses that they have come across in the past due to soil conditions unseen prior to excavation.
2.) Floor Plan Options – Considering the size, shape, easements and setbacks of a block, a builder can offer their knowledge as to what type of floor plan would, be suitable on the block. If you are working with a design-builder, then the rooms will be designed with the sunrise and sunset in mind, current and future views and other features the lot allows.
Here are a few tips that might help you when choosing your land
If you are building a new home, consider these tips before buying a block of land. When selecting the site, there are a number of things to keep in mind to ensure you have the right block to suit the home you want to build.
Once you choose and buy your land, you are ready to move to the next step in the building process.
Land availability & suitability
The first step is to go out and see what land is available, where it is located and at what price. Some options include land in a new estate, regional acreage, demolishing an existing dwelling and using the land, building on land that has been subdivided, or just generally finding land that has remained vacant.
It is also important to make sure the land you purchase is compatible with your home design, with the size, the shape, orientation, slope and soil type all points you need to consider.
Every site is different, and it is not financially viable to do a soil test on every block of land you consider purchasing, so talk to adjoining property owners or local builders. When you have decided on the land you feel is right, then obtain a soil test
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Services & facilities
Some of the things to think about when choosing your block are the availability of power, water and sewerage, storm water easements, and soil conditions. These can all substantially add to the cost of building.
If you are looking at acreage,, don’t forget the costs associated with installing a septic system, power lines, water tanks, telephone and internet connection and access roads. Steep blocks or sites with difficult access all have challenges that will cost you more money. There are also possible additional costs if your building a considerable distance from the property alignment.
Once you have narrowed down the options on your land, talk to the local council planning branch to check flood levels, buffer zones and other easements. Remember, talk to some industry experts and do your homework, the more research you do, the fewer surprises you will have when you start building.
Lifestyles & Neighbours
A good starting point, before selecting your land and designing your house, is to decide what lifestyle your after. Different neighbourhoods provide different opportunities to achieve the lifestyle your looking for. Choose the one you believe that will suit you and your family
When inspecting land, consider the age and the lifestyle of those living in the area. Make sure you have a lot in common with, maybe your future neighbours . Is the neighbourhood relatively quiet ?. Does it offer you a lot of variety? If your seeking privacy, is the area one where you can live a comfortable distance from your nearest neighbour ?. If you need them, how close are shops, public transport and schools.
