You have just arrived at a new land estate with the intention of buying a block on which you will build your future dream home. How will you pick the best block? At the moment there is a huge choice of land estates in Perth.
The decision can be hard to make, especially if there is little or no difference in price. Data by the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia indicates there are more than 2,000 blocks of land currently on the metropolitan Perth real estate market.
If you are in this situation, it’s important not to get flustered and just think about the best site characteristics to suit your building plans.
Try to imagine your house design and its orientation with the block. Think about energy efficiency and try and maximize the areas which face north to receive the winter sun, and conversely minimize the exposed window areas facing west into the summer sun.
Ask the developer or local Council about the minimum distance required between the front of the house and the road and the distance required between the house and side fences. These are known as ‘setbacks’. If you have bought a block and find that the setbacks don’t suit your preferred design you’ll have to change it or possibly chance your luck and seek special consideration from the Council.
What might your windows overlook? If you are buying into a production home neighborhood make sure you have a level of privacy that meets your expectations.
Does anything have the potential to block worthwhile views? What are the plans for homes and grounds around you? Is any urban construction planned by the Council which might later be visible from your site?
How is the lot shaped? How best will your home of choice fit on it? It may be worthwhile to inspect the block with your preferred builder. Your builder may be able to advise you on the suitability of the block for your prefered home design.
If the block slopes, calculate the extra cost that might be involved to level it. Even blocks that look flat can sometimes have a slight sloping that requires some site works.
How will the area drain strom water? If it’s in a low lying area it is best to check that the available draining system will prevent flooding. Also consider any possible run-off water from adjoining blocks on higher ground.
Make sure to ask about easements for access, utilities and any other purposes that created their existence. In most cases, you are not permitted to build any structure over an easement. This may include pools, sheds or future extensions.
Finally, if you are lucky enough to be buying a block near any of Perth’s beach areas or in any of the expanding coastal suburbs, you might like to find a well positioned one where you can best catch the cooling sea breeze during summer.
