How to Choose the Best Lot in a New Construction Neighborhood

Working with a St. Louis area home builder in a new construction subdivision or development comes with a lot of important decisions. You’ll be choosing things like the floorplan, countertop material, cabinet style and color, lighting, and so much more. But these decisions are not limited to the house itself. One of the most important choices you will make in the new home building process is the lot on which you will have the home built. Choosing a builder’s lot in a subdivision for your new construction home takes a lot of careful consideration. Here are some crucial things to think about to ensure you get the best lot for your own needs and preferences.

Be familiar with the builder’s master plan for the development

Depending on how early in the age of the development you build your home, the subdivision may change drastically from the time you build to the time the builder is finished developing the subdivision. Investigate the builder’s master plan for the development. Many times, builders will develop in phases. Ask your builder what the ultimate goal is for the subdivision and get as much information as you can to help you decide on the best lot. Builders will typically be able to provide you with a map for the planned streets and amenities such as the one you see here. Maybe you want to be close to the entrance, or within walking distance of certain amenities. Knowing what is expected to be a part of the subdivision, and where everything will be is an important consideration in your decision. 

Understand how the lot's location affects traffic and noise

Typically, lots closer to the entrance of a development will experience more traffic and therefore more noise, especially if the development is near major roads. Cul-de-sacs are popular choices among families with young children, since they tend to have fewer cars driving through. Corner lots, while they will experience traffic from two sides, generally have larger yards due to setback requirements. Each area has its own advantages and considerations, so it is important to think about what makes sense for your unique situation and preferences.

Think about the home’s orientation on the lot in relation to the sun

Your home’s orientation has an effect on how much sunlight the home receives throughout the day as well as other things like energy efficiency, home maintenance and more. Typically speaking, the south and west sides of a home will get the most sun exposure. If it is important to you that certain parts of the home get more sun than others, try to choose a lot that will have those sections of the home situated on the south or west sides.

Additionally, you should consider where the sun will be in relation to your outdoor spaces. Maybe you like to spend a lot of time outside on your desk or patio but don’t want the sun glaring in your face in the evening. If that is the case, you should choose a west facing home, so the backyard will be shaded as the sun goes down.

Knowing where the sun rises and falls in relation to the home’s orientation on the different lot choices will help you make the best decision for your needs.

Know how the lot’s topography fits with the basement style and yard you desire

You should decide before you even start looking at lots what type of basement you prefer. There are three types of basements: walk-outs, look-outs, and standard. The topography of the lot will determine which of those basement types is possible. If you feel strongly about the type of basement access you want or need based on your future plans for the space, make sure to let the builder know so they can let you know which lots that will be possible to do.

It is important to also think about how you want to use your outdoor spaces. Will you want a swingset or pool? Try to find a lot with fairly flat and open space in the backyard. Knowing ahead of time as much as possible what you might want to put in the yard will help you decide on a lot that fits your needs as closely as possible.

Know what is around the lot and what the plans are for that space

Make sure you know not only what is currently around the lot, but what the plans are for the future. A great practice is to ask the builder if they own the area around the lot you are considering. If they do, ask them exactly what the plans are for that space. It is important to make sure you know what to expect from the areas around your home so there are no disappointments or surprises down the road. How close will the neighboring homes be to yours? What are the views like and can you expect them to change over time? Get as much information as you can about the space immediately around the lots you are considering now and in the future.

A common mistake we see new construction buyers make is choosing a tree-lined lot without investigating the plans for that space. They expect the trees to stay, but fail to consider that they are on another available lot and their beautiful tree lining can, and probably will be torn down at some point. If a builder owns the land surrounding a lot, they can typically tell you what the known future plans are for the space, so you can have a better idea what to expect.

Know the lot premium and consider it in your budget

Some builders include the lot cost in the price of the home and others do not. Oftentimes, the more desired lots will come at a premium price. You need to decide if certain features are worth paying more for, and if the lot premium fits within your budget.

Think about your personal preferences

Choosing the best lot for your new construction home in the St. Louis area really comes down to your personal preferences. Since everyone has different needs and desires for their home, there really is no right or wrong answer. Taking the time to carefully evaluate your own plans and desires in relation to the items listed above will help you choose the very best lot for your new construction home in a subdivision or development.

In Conclusion

The great news is, you don’t have to do any of this alone! The Chad Wilson Group has helped hundreds of people through the process of building new homes with builders in the St. Charles, St. Louis, Warren, and Lincoln Counties.

Our New Construction experts are powerful advocates in your corner as you negotiate upgrades, price and other terms, and we will continue to advocate for you throughout the construction process, including contract negotiations, building process, and closing, offering objective professional advice and insight. From picking your subdivision and lot to which floorplan, structural options and cosmetic upgrades you choose, we have the experience and market knowledge to help you make wise decisions. We can help you weigh options to determine which are vital for future resale, and which options are current trends. The best part? We do not charge a fee to represent you, as the sales commission is paid for by the builder.

Do you have questions about the new construction process, or are you ready to get started on your custom dream home? Contact us today or fill out the form below!