Before You Buy Land

Just as a diamond needs a setting to become a ring, your home's value (both in dollar and pleasure terms) depends upon the land on which its sits. If you are looking for a place to build a home, here are some critical elements to consider:

Buy land for yourself. This may sound obvious, but many people don't pick a lot for themselves. They buy with resale uppermost in their minds and may never be fully satisfied living in their new home.

What services do you need? If you are buying a developed suburban subdivision lot, expect streets with gutters, sewers, and easy hookup to water, gas, and electric lines. But rural developments and country property may have only a few -- or almost none -- of these services. Make sure you understand what is available.

Trees have value. Ideally, you will be able to find building lots where trees have been left standing and terrain features, such as small rises or slopes, haven't been bulldozed flat. Many of the most satisfying home designs allow contours of the land and the surrounding environment to influence style, layout, and colors.

Make sure you can build. It's unfortunate when someone plans a dream house for their country acreage only to discover they are blocked from building because of federal or state regulations. Before you buy land, check with county offices to see if federal or state rules require an environmental impact study. You may have to prove your project will not negatively impact local animals, vegetation, or watershed. Soil and geologic studies may also be required in some areas.

Ask locals about the region. Purchasing a lot in an unfamiliar area can be risky. Put on your detective hat and check out these issues:

• City or county agencies can tell you about the history of the parcel you are considering. Has flooding ever affected your lot? County flood officials will know. They also can tell you how rain runoff is handled. A small creek can become unmanageable after only an inch or two of rain if flow is restricted or rerouted by recent housing development.
• Have any military bases or industrial plants ever contaminated the region's soil or groundwater? Get a report on local water quality from the region's water agency.

Look for a solar site. Add comfort and save money on heating costs by selecting a site where south-facing windows can soak up the sun.