How to Choose the Right Lot for Your New Home

Building a custom home starts with more than just a great floor plan; it starts with finding the right piece of land. The lot you choose will affect everything from the design of your home to your day-to-day lifestyle.

If you’re looking to build, here are the key factors to consider when choosing the perfect lot:

Lot Size and Shape

The size and shape of your lot set the stage for what you can build.

• Square footage: Do you want a sprawling ranch with room for outdoor living, or a two-story home that needs less land?
• Setbacks and easements: Local rules may require certain distances between your home and property lines, which can limit buildable space.
• Yard space: Think about whether you want space for kids to play, a garden, or future additions like a patio or pool.

Neighborhood and Community

Your home is more than just the walls around you; it’s also about where you live.

• Schools:  School districts are often a deciding factor for families.
• Amenities: Consider proximity to grocery stores, healthcare, parks, and recreation.
• Character: Do you prefer a quiet rural setting, a subdivision with neighbors nearby, or something in between?
• Resale value: A desirable neighborhood can help your investment hold or increase value over time.

Utilities and Infrastructure

Not every lot in Wisconsin comes ready to build. Make sure you understand what’s included and what you’ll need to budget for.

• Water and sewer: Some areas have municipal hookups, while others may require a well and septic system. If you need to put in a well and/or septic system, this can impact your building costs. It is something you should factor into your total budget.
• Electric and gas: Confirm whether utilities are already brought to the lot or if you’ll need to extend them. In addition, some rural areas may require a propane tank for access to gas. This will require space on the property and set-up costs.
• Internet access: In rural areas of Wisconsin, broadband availability can vary, something to double-check if you work from home.

Zoning and Restrictions

Every municipality in Wisconsin has zoning ordinances that control what can be built and how the land is used.

• Zoning classifications: Residential, agricultural, or mixed-use designations can affect your options.
• Covenants or HOA rules: If your lot is in a subdivision, there may be additional restrictions on home size, style, or even exterior finishes.
• Future development: Research whether nearby land is slated for commercial or residential expansion, which could impact your long-term enjoyment.

Topography and Site Conditions

Don’t forget to look beyond the location and size of the land.

• Drainage: Make sure water naturally flows away from where your home will sit. If not, some grading will be required to get the land ready to build on.
• Soil testing: In many Wisconsin counties, a percolation test (perc test) is required before installing a septic system.
• Sunlight and views: Consider how your home can be positioned for natural light, privacy, or a scenic backdrop.
• Amount of clearing: Does the lot have a large amount of trees and brush that need to be removed, or is the lot clear of most trees, rocks, and plants? Removing such items is an additional cost to consider.

Choosing Wisely for Your Build

Finding the right lot is one of the most important steps in building your dream home. The land you choose shapes your design, your budget, and your lifestyle for years to come.

At Advantage Homes, we help families find the perfect place to build, from navigating zoning rules to planning around utilities. If you’re starting your journey and need guidance on selecting the right lot, we’d love to help. Learn more about the lots that we have available here.