Buying new construction is a distinct process from buying your quintessential pre-built home. At Green Bay Remodeling and Development, we work to change the overwhelming new construction process into an efficient one by using the right set of tools, cutting-edge technologies, well-regulated processes, and effective project management.
What's included and what's not in a new construction process needs to be clarified before the process begins. It is essential to be well-prepared – and that means asking the right questions.
What are the basics to check on a vacant lot?
Before you assess the vacant lot based on your desired home requirements, take note of the basics first:
Size: Aside from any intentions for using your lot, the first thing to look at is width and depth. A narrow lot is going to limit the architecture of the home. If you already have a home design in mind, the lot's width and depth are essential to check. Your architect will assist with this as part of their services.
Accessibility: Access to the site can impact construction itself — increasing labor and equipment costs.
Utilities: It's best if a lot has been previously developed. This means that it's already been serviced by utility companies. New services can be expensive and take a fair amount of work and time to apply for, engineer, and get approved.
Also, identify other factors like:
Trees
Height Restrictions
HOA's
Local Ordinances
Flood + Hazard Zones
How important is site design, and what goes into it?
Your architect is responsible for both site planning — the site's layout (how the building is situated and other site features) and the home's design. Good site planning is the foresight to know what can fit — what's comfortable and functional. How much space do you need on any of the sides — front, side yard, back? How do you see your life-changing over time? Does the lot provide that flexibility?
Do you take existing trees and vegetation into consideration when preparing a lot? How will these affect the future house?
Existing trees can also impact your design if you're considering changing the lot's elevation — lowering or raising the grade. Trees need to be protected during construction. The equipment, materials, and traffic — trucks, cars, workers — can compact the roots. Trees should also be washed down to remove dirt that accumulates. Someone needs to be retained to take responsibility for the trees — watering and checking in on their health. Construction is stressful on trees. If another planting is being saved, a temporary irrigation system should be established and a gardener retained to maintain it.
What components contribute to the pre-construction and lot preparation cost?
The components that are required and costs that may be incurred to obtain a permit for a home, as well as to provide the documents/information needed to build a house include the following:
Plan check and permit fees
Soils Report
Survey
Grading Plan
Architectural Plans
Structural Plans
Energy Calculations — depending on the municipality
Other engineered systems like HVAC, plumbing, electrical
Utility fees
Insurance policies
Taxes and developer fees
HOA fees
Designer fees
The school district and additional municipal fees
This should provide some insight into lot assessment to fully understand what goes into this process before buying a new home construction.
When you're ready, our CEO, who is an experienced builder, is here to help you navigate it. Learn more about residential construction here.
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