Finding the perfect block of land for a knockdown rebuild project can feel a little like searching for a needle in a haystack. There are so many plots of land that are promising in one way or another, but how do you know if it’s right for you? No wonder so many first-time homebuyers feel stressed.
To avoid disappointment, Icon Homes always advises running through a “checklist” to make sure if a block of land is correct for you. Rather than providing you with a strict cut off on what’s worth investing in and what’s best to steer clear of, we understand that every family and home is unique.
Instead, we have the below key points you should ask yourself before investing in a block for a knockdown rebuild.
If you’re still looking for an available and suitable block to knock down and rebuild on both the Northern Beaches and North Shore, contact us to sign up to our mailing list to stay updated. We have dedicated emails for both suburbs, giving you the best opportunity to find your dream block of land.
Is it within your budget?
Whether or not a knockdown is worth investing in all comes down to whether or not the total cost will fit within your budget.
If the initial cost of the land and the cost of a home fit into your budget, you might be tempted to sign on the dotted line right away. There are, however, some problems that this could bring.
Many first-home buyers make this simple mistake–they forget to make sure that the block of land is suitable for their needs and just look at the price tag. Unstable foundations, lack of amenities, and even a highway built close by all add up. Before they know it, they’re holding onto land that doesn’t work for them, their new home, or their bank account.
Beyond the correct price tag, there are other features you’ll need to check on.
Is it suitable for a knockdown?
Before you begin rolling up your sleeves and mapping out your new home, you need to make sure that your block of land is suitable for a hassle-free knockdown.
Each suburb, street, and block have restrictions or requirements, so be sure to review and recheck the title documents to see what parameters you’re working with.
Additionally, check with the local council to see if there are restrictions or regulations for the block.
Where is the block of land located?
As the saying goes, location, location, location.
The location of your rebuild block is one of the essential features of the entire project. After all, a block of land might be exactly what you’re looking for, but if it’s not located close to any schools or services, it might not be the right block for you.
There are several boxes you’ll need to tick off when finding the correct location. They might not all apply to you and your needs, but they’re a good indicator of the suburb and surrounding area.
- Transportation: does the surrounding area have ample public transport or roads? How far do you need to travel for school and work? Does the block of land require a car to get to? How close/far away are freeways or highways? What are the nearest railway or bus stations?
- Lifestyle: what do you like to do on the weekends? Do you love spending time with family or friends whenever you can? Are you someone who enjoys hiking or jogging, or do you prefer brunch at a cafe? Are you someone who heads to the beach or the mountains for a break? Do you love the hustle and bustle of the city or the calm and serenity of the countryside? The location of your block will directly affect how you spend your time. Make sure to factor your lifestyle into the area.
- Amenities: what kind of amenities does your household need? Depending on the suburb you’re looking at, you’ll need to consider proximity to shops, schools, medical services, recreational areas, and even areas for your pet to run are essential to take into account.
How easy is it to connect to utilities?
Utilities such as electricity, gas, water, sewerage, and even internet connectivity are essential in determining if a block of land is right for you.
A knockdown and rebuild should only be completed with a thorough understanding of the land you’re building on. Locating water and waste pipes, electrical cables, and even elevation and structural plans dictate how you build. Always check to see if there are any obstructing light poles or drains.
Discuss utility connections with your chosen service provider to ensure that the block of land you have your heart set on can be connected easily.
Which direction does the block of land face?
Regarding the street-facing side of the block of land, which direction is it facing? Designing around the sun is something that Icon Homes believes is critical when choosing a block of land for your property. Your future home’s position and how it meets the sun will affect your home’s climate control, heating and cooling, and the amount of sunlight each room gets.
Are there any plans for the surrounding area?
Although a block of land may have the perfect surroundings now, it’s worth ensuring that there are no future plans for the surrounding area.
Living in your dream home will quickly become a nightmare if there’s constant noise or light pollution, large apartment buildings, highways, redevelopments, and utility upgrades.
What kind of surface is the block resting on?
Make sure to examine the nitty-gritty of your block of land: what it’s built on, drainage, and the stability of the ground itself.
Regarding drainage, it’s crucial to examine the block itself and the surrounding areas. Do the surrounding properties show signs of water build-up? Are there areas of higher-than-usual moisture levels?
Depending on the land itself, you may need additional structural reinforcements to help keep a building level. Unstable foundations lead to expensive cracks or warping in the building and can render your entire building unsafe or uninhabitable.
Already have an eye on a block of land but unsure about whether or not it is suitable? Struggling with a knockdown and rebuild project?We’d love to help! Contact us and we can help you get back on track with building your dream home.
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