Secure Your Lot

The first step in securing your lot is to verify that it is legally yours and ready for construction. Here’s how:

• Check Property Deeds and Title: If you’ve recently purchased the property, ensure you’ve received the deed from the seller. This document legally transfers ownership to your name. You can verify the title’s validity by contacting your local recorder of deeds or county clerk’s office, which keeps official property records.
• Run a Title Search: If you haven’t already, hire a title company or real estate attorney to conduct a title search. This process ensures the property is free of liens (unpaid debts tied to the property) or encumbrances (e.g., easements that give others legal access to parts of the land).
• Obtain Title Insurance: Title insurance protects you against future claims or disputes regarding ownership. It’s a small cost compared to the peace of mind it provides.

Even if your lot is legally yours, it doesn’t automatically mean you can build on it. Here’s what you need to do:

• Meet with the Planning and Zoning Department: Contact your local government’s planning and zoning department to confirm the property is zoned for residential construction. Zoning regulations determine what can be built on the property, and setbacks may dictate how far your home must be from property lines or natural features like streams.
• Obtain a Property Survey: If you don’t already have a recent survey, hire a licensed surveyor to map your lot’s boundaries and identify restrictions like easements or rights of way. Bring this survey to your meeting with zoning officials.
• Request Building Guidelines: Ask for specific building codes and inspection requirements that apply to your project. These may include foundation standards, stormwater management, and even tree removal restrictions.

Access to utilities is critical for both construction and everyday living. Here’s how to confirm or plan for connections:

• Verify Existing Utilities: Contact utility providers to confirm whether the property has access to water, sewer, electricity, and internet. Providers often have records of nearby service lines. If utilities are connected, ask for confirmation that services are active.
• Plan for New Connections: If utilities are not readily available, research the costs and timelines for installation. For example:
  • Water and Sewer: Contact your municipality for connection fees or plan for a well and septic system. A soil test may be required for septic approval.
  • Electricity: Local power companies can provide estimates for running lines to your property.
  • Internet: Rural areas may need satellite or wireless internet options.
• Coordinate Utility Work with Your Builder: Utility installation can take weeks or months. Work with your builder to schedule utility connections before construction begins to avoid delays.