Meet the Builder: Learn About Building Your Home

Saturday January 2, 12-4pm

"Meet the Builder" drop-in events are an informal opportunity for homebuyers to bring questions to an experienced new home builder, even before you decide what or where you want to build.

What To Look For In Your New Home

Stanton Homes offers one-on-one advice on what to look for when buying a lot, choosing a floor plan, or evaluating options, including topics such as:

- Building a Custom Home - why it's more affordable (and easier) than you think.

- Green Building - what does it actually do, and what does that cost?

- Bayer MaterialScienceHigh Performance Residential Program - Guaranteed Savings.

- ADA and wheelchair accessible homes, mother in law suites, Aging in Place, and other special modifications: what it takes.

Looking for a full, free building cost estimate?

Bring a copy of your floor plan, or contact us ahead of time at http://www.stantonhomes.com/ContactUs.aspx or 919-278-8070.

Send a link to the online catalog which contains the floor plan you're considering, or choose a floor plan from our Library of Favorites.

Need help finding a plan? 

Let us know what you're looking for, and we'll send you some plans to consider that meet your exact specifications. 

We work from thousands of different floor plans.

Stanton Homes takes pride in our commitment to building top quality homes with the kind of custom amenities you'd expect to pay a whole lot more for. With decades of combined homebuilder experience and attention to the latest homebuilding trends and options, we construct our homes with emphasis on comfort, value, and excellence. Stanton Homes features Energy Wise guaranteed energy savings and extensive Green Building options, and offers discounts through one of the nation's largest military/veteran programs, Stanton Homes for Heroes.

Directions to Horizon - 8 Minutes from Chapel Hill

This Open House will be at Horizon, a new custom homes on acreage neighborhood just south of Chapel Hill. 

Horizon is just 8 minutes from Chapel Hill.  From Chapel Hill, take 15/501 south.  Turn right on Hamlet Chapel Road, just past Fearrington.  Horizon is one mile ahead on the right. 

Find out more about the Horizon neighborhood. Horizon offers new custom homes starting in the $330s, on beautiful rolling wooded acreage. 

 

How to Build a New Home in Chapel Hill, NC - New Home Resources

Chapel Hill NC New Homes – New Home Builders Chapel Hill NC

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Building a Home in the Raleigh NC Area

Site Work is Essential When Building a Home - Here's What to Look For

Top Questions for Raleigh Custom Homes

"What does 'site work' mean?  I've seen some home prices that say 'does not include site work'.  What is it that's not included, and how much should I add to the total cost of the home?"

This is an essential question to ask for anyone looking at building a home. 

The Definition of "Site Work" Can Vary

You'll want to get specifics.  In some cases, "site work" can include quite a few costly items.   

• Lot Clearing
• Foundation Preparation
• Rough Grading
• Final Grading
• Landscaping
• Driveways
• Walkways
• Permits and Fees
• Septic or Sewer
• Well or Water

and even electrical hook up may all be considered "site work" by some builders.  

What's the Price Tag?

These costs can add up to 10% or more to the total construction costs - it depends on several factors.  Some counties cost more to build in than others.  A complex septic system can add to cost.  A sloped or heavily wooded lot will cost more to prepare than a flat meadow lot.

Include Site Work in Your Total Quote

In most cases, you're better off with a construction quote that includes these costs, rather than financing the actual "construction" portion (and paying a deposit), then financing these costs out of pocket.  

When you receive a bid, make sure that each of these items is included, AND is specific to your lot or piece of land, if you're already selected a location.  For example, it won't help you if your building permit allowance covers the costs for one inexpensive county - but not the county you're planning to live in.  Also, consider the allowance amounts. 

Most builders will set up excavation and site work as allowances, as there can be unforeseen challenges.  Take the allowance amounts into consideration when comparing bids.  Make sure the builder has seen your lot, and is familiar with the area you're building in.  If you like a builder who has low allowances, you may want to consider asking that the allowances be raised somewhat so that all costs are more likely to be covered.

Get all the Details in Writing

A valid bid should be detailed enough that you know exactly what is going in to your new home at each stage of construction, so that there are no surprises during or after the project.

We're happy to help homebuyers compare several different bids, and answer any questions on materials or allowances specified.  The more details your builder provides, the better informed your decision will be.

 

 

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5 Steps to Buying a Lot

Buying Land in Raleigh NC

Finding Land in the Raleigh Area - Best Places to Get a Bargain

Raleigh Custom Home Building Questions

"How hard is it to find land in the Raleigh area? I'd really like to purchase a lot to build a home on for under $50,000, but I'm not sure what my options are."

We get asked this question more often than you might think!   

Best Place to Live - With Plenty of Options 

Even though the Raleigh, NC area has been seeing steady growth for the past two decades, it's still possible to find land within driving distance, no matter which area of the Triangle you're planning to work in.

For 3/4 of an acre to a little over an acre for under $50,000, I'd start by considering Fuquay-Varina, Clayton, Zebulon, parts of Chatham County, parts of Hillsborough, Bahama, Creedmoor, Alamance County, Harnett County, and Johnston County.

All offer great combinations of scenic trees, ponds, and farmland, while still near shopping and big-city attractions.  Some bargains can be found in other areas too - but overall these areas offer the most selection in your price point.

 

What's Most Important to You?

Like everything else, there are trade offs in location and amenities, as well as size. 

What size would your lot be, ideally?

-Less than a quarter of an acre.

-One quarter to one half acre.

-One half to one acre.

-One acre or more.

What kinds of community amenities are you looking for?

-Swimming pool, tennis courts, community center and other amenities will drive the price of the lots upwards, as the costs of these amenities are usually spread out over the individual lots.

-Are you an avid golfer?  It's hard to find a golf course lot for under $100K in the Raleigh area.  If you're looking for lower land costs, you may want to consider being near a golf course rather than on one.

-Also consider cost of homeowners association fees, as they will be higher in a community with more amenities.

Pricing is dependent on land values in the area. 

 - Within Wake County, Cary, Morrisville, and Wake Forest generally have the highest home values - and land values are correspondingly high.   Find out more here about which areas of Wake County offer the best bargains. 

Generally land that is a little further out is less costly. 

 

Raleigh New Home Building Resources:

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Determine Your New Home (and Lot) Budget

Floor Plan Ideas - Raleigh Custom Home Floor Plans

 

Building on Your Lot in the Raleigh NC Area

It's The Same House - So Why Does the Price Vary So Much?

Raleigh Custom Home Top Building Questions

"I've gotten bids from a couple of different builders for my new home that I'm planning to build in Chatham County. However, the quotes I've gotten back vary quite a bit. Why is there such a big variance when each builder is working with the same floor plan?"

This is a very good question - and one that will probably come up with anyone looking to build a new home.

Basic Standards are Different with Each Builder

The exact same floor plan can be built with a wide variety of finishes and features, and each builder bids out the plan according to their set of basic standards, which may or may not match what you have in mind.

Just in the kitchen, the differences can be extensive:

• Is the floor vinyl, laminate wood, site-finished wood, or tile?  What is the allowance per sq ft?
• Are the standard upper cabinets 36" or 42" in height?
• Is crown moulding included on the walls?
• Is crown moulding included on the upper part of the cabinets?
• What cabinets are standard?
• Are roll-out shelves included in the cabinets?
• Are the countertops laminate, solid surface, or granite?
• Is there a backsplash?  If so, what kind?
• Are the ceilings smooth or textured?
• What kind of lighting is included?

A comprehensive bid should include all these details.  Ask to walk through a home with that specific set of standards, so that you can see the details - and make sure anything you see is noted in the bid as well. Just because the home you walk through has tile in the kitchen, doesn't mean it's included in your bid unless it is specifically noted.

Compare New Home Bids, Line by Line

Each builder uses a different set of suppliers and subcontractors, always considering a balance between cost and quality.

Builder resources and management costs can vary widely. Take some time to look at each bid, line by line. Compare allowances for items like flooring, lighting, and plumbing.

Be wary of projects with very small allowance amounts, or allowances that are only able to be used at one specific location. An allowance means that you will pay for any overruns, usually before work continues.

Make Sure Your Builder is Familiar with the Area

Also, if the builder is bidding a plan in an area he is not familiar with, they may not be aware of common septic costs, typical well depths, and other costs. Impact fees and building permit costs vary considerably by jurisdiction. If costs for sewer, water, permits, and fees are set up as allowances, and are insufficient, you may have some surprise costs later in the project.

A valid bid should be detailed enough that you know exactly what is going in to your new home at each stage of construction, so that there are no surprises during or after the project.

 

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Most Up-to-Date Raleigh Market Reports - How is the Housing Market in Raleigh?

 

What Does a Lot Cost in Raleigh, NC?

Finding Land to Build a Home On in the Raleigh Area

If you're considering building a home in the Raleigh, NC area, you're probably wondering what kind of lots and homesites are available, and how much those lots might cost.

For July 2008, here's an idea of what you might pay for a lot in Raleigh, NC - and how big that lot might be. 

This information reflects lots and pieces of land currently available on the Research Park Triangle area(RTP) MLS.  The lot price and lot size columns represent data points for each category - the two numbers do not necessarily reference the same lot.

Is this all the lots or land that are available?

Not all available Raleigh homesites are listed on the MLS.  There are also many neighborhoods that offer lots which either require the use of a specific custom homes builder team, or allow a homebuyer to bring their own builder. 

 

In either case, the proposed homeplan and exterior may need to be approved by the developers, and may need to fit certain standards (some communities require brick homes, for example).

 

 Get help finding a lot in Raleigh here.

 

 

 

 

What kind of lot or land I might find to build custom new homes in Raleigh, NC?

According to the MLS, here are a sample of some lots currently available:

A 1/3 acre lot in Lakestone Place for $350,000  (Inside the Beltline, city sewer and water)

A 1 acre lot in Estates/Brooks Crossing for $229,000 (septic and well, 1 mile to Cary city limits)

A 1.5 acre lot in the Woodspring neighborhood for $125,000 (hillside lot appropriate for daylight basement, city sewer and water, North Raleigh)

A 1/4 acre lot in Taylors Creek/The Neuse for $49,500 (Northeast Raleigh, city water and sewer)

 

How much should I spend on my lot or land? 

It depends on your total budget.  How much do you want your total mortgage to be when the construction is complete?  The cost of land generally represents 17-25% of the total value of your home.  

 Suppose your total budget is $400,000.   Let's look at a typical breakdown:

Land - $80,000

Real Estate Commissions - $24,000

Carrying Costs on Construction Loan - $12,500

Total Construction Costs - $283,500

Total Cost of Home: $400,000

In this example, land cost is 20% of the full cost of the home.   Remember, construction costs must include permits and fees, clearing and preparing the land, and all steps of construction from laying the foundation to laying carpet and paint.  Most experts recommend that land costs represent 17-20% of the total value of the home, but that can be stretched to 25% occasionally, if land costs in the general area are high.  Some include the cost of septic and well into the land cost calculation. 

 

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Top 10 New Home Trends

 

At Stanton Homes, we believe that the more information a homebuyer has, the more comfortable they will be with the purchase of their new home - and the more likely that new home will be to meet all of their needs.   So here's the top 10 recent questions we've been asked - and their answers. 

No matter who your builder is, they should be happy to work with you to answer questions like these.  In the meantime, feel free to browse through some of these topics. 

1.   I Need More Pantry Space - What Can I Do?

A custom home builder can work with you to rearrange a floor plan.  Take a look at this example.

2.   Do I Want a Woodburning or a Gas Fireplace?

The main issues are cost and regulations.  Take a look at some of the common things you'll want to consider. 

3.   How Long Will It Take to Build My New Raleigh Home?

Once you have a home plan and a lot selected, the next step is starting construction.  Here's an idea of common timelines. 

4.   Should My Front Porch Be Wood or Concrete?

You'll want to consider what's common in your area, as well as total cost.  Here are some things to think about.

5.   How Much Does a Septic System Cost?

A builder has a lot of factors to consider that affect septic system cost.  Here's what they'll look for. 

6.   I'm Concerned About Bedroom Noise - What Can I Do?

We've highlighted a few of the options available to keep bedroom noise to a minimum.

7.   My Lot is Rated for a 3 Bedroom Septic, but I Want To Build a 4 Bedroom Home. What Are My Options?

Maybe you purchased the lot before you chose your home plan...  There are still a few options, and we go over some of those here. 

8.   What Exactly is an Energy Star Home?

As energy costs increase, we anticipate that more homebuyers will be looking at ways to reduce home energy needs.  Here's what goes into an Energy Star home to make it stand out. 

9.   My Estimate is Only Valid for 30 Days - Why is That?

Most builders place a time limit on their bids and estimates.  Here's one of the reasons why. 

10.   How Can I Change the Look of this Home?

 

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Custom Home Floor Plan Modifications

Kitchen Design - How to Move a Pantry

 

We were recently asked this question:  "Can I move the pantry on this floor plan?  I really need some more storage space."

The answer, almost always, is YES.  When working with a custom home builder, you should be able to adjust a floor plan to better suit your needs.  Here's a recent example.

 

In the original floorplan for this home, the kitchen area was a bit awkward. 

The laundry closet impacted space in the breakfast room, and the kitchen felt small because of the entrance door to the garage.

As a custom home builder, we're often able to make changes at little to no cost if these changes are requested in the planning stage. 

 

 

 

Here's what we did with this one:

 

• Move pantry into corner
• Add mudroom
• Add laundry room
• Add breakfast room bay

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is a view from the family room looking into the kitchen and breakfast room. 

We added a bay extension to the breakfast room, creating a much more open feel. 

The garage was large enough that we were able to create a full size laundry room by moving it into the garage. 

The garage is now accessable through the laundry room, which means there's only one doorway needed.

 

 

This is a view diagonally into the kitchen. 

There is now plenty of pantry space - we shifted the cabinets to the right, and created a full walk-in corner pantry. 

Plus the original pantry space still exists - we just bumped it into the garage to create more space in the kitchen.

The increased cost?

Much lower than you would think. 

• The structural changes in this case added only to the additional framing materials needed for the expanded laundry. 
• There was a little more floor surface, so the tile cost increased slightly. 
• The bay required no additional windows, so cost was held there. 
• The cabinet package remained the same - they were just better arranged. 
• There was a slight cost for the additional framing for the corner pantry and the additional shelving. 

Altogether - less than $1,000 additional to redesign and build this kitchen, while adding about 60 more square feet of living space. (And the total cost of this home was right around $279K.)

If you have a floor plan that you love, but wish it had more pantry or storage space, bring it to your local custom home builder.  When no structural changes are required, it may be easier than you think to find exactly what you're looking for.  

 

Get ideas from these kitchen floor plan transformations, designed by NC Custom Home Builder Stanton Homes to fit the lifestyles of our homebuyers.

The Gershwin

The Thurman

The Worthington

The Lightsey

 

The Bakersfield

The Holly Glen

 

Looking for answers to your building and remodeling questions?  Get them here!

 

Stanton Homes provides one-on-one advice to homebuyers thinking of building a home anywhere throughout central North Carolina.

- My lot is rated for a 3 bedroom septic system.  I want to build a 4 bedroom home.  Do I have any options?

- After looking at thousands of floor plans, this is my favorite.  However, I don't like the exterior.  Can I have this interior, with a different exterior?

- I like this floor plan, but am concerned about noise between the living and bedroom areas.  What are my options?

- Is a front porch or deck a better choice?

- How much is a septic system is going to cost?

- What's the best way to finance construction of our new home?

- What is the best kind of flooring for pets or heavy traffic?

 

The answers to these questions and others asked at our "meet the builder" events are available from Stanton Homes. 

Email info@StantonHomes.com, with "Request Meet the Builder Q&A" in the subject line.  Stanton Homes will send you a free copy of the questions and answers discussed during Sunday's "Meet the Builder" event.  

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Buying a Lot for Your Home - Part 3

10 Questions to Ask Before Signing a Contract

There are a lot of things to consider when choosing a lot for your new home, beginning with asking questions about your needs and budget. If you're planning to build in the Raleigh area, you've already handled the most important decision - what region in the country to build your custom home!  The Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area has been rated a "Best Place to Live" over and over again, by respected businesses like Forbes and Sperling. 

The rest of the answers might not be as easy to find. In fact, the piece of property you choose is so important, and there are so many variables to consider, that we'll be providing a three-part series to help guide you through the process.  

 

Tips from a Raleigh Custom Home Builder

As a custom home builder in the Raleigh area, we're often asked these kinds of questions - and we're pleased to provide some tips to keep in mind as you make your decision about what lot to buy.

What questions should you ask before signing a contract?

1.      Does the lot need a septic system, or is there access to city or county sewer?

A septic system costs more than the fees and equipment required to hook up to a city or county system.  If a perk test has not yet been completed, you may want to make your offer contingent upon completion of test.  Click here for more information on the costs and requirements of sewer and septic.

2.      Does the piece of land have access to city or county water, or is a well required?

Again, hook up fees to connect your lot to a city or county water supply will most likely be less than the cost of a well.  Click here for more information about water supply costs.

3.      What is the projected growth for this area?

No matter where you're buying, it's a good idea to find out what kind of growth is anticipated.  Growth can bring retail, more housing, manufacturing, and higher traffic.

4.      Zoning -

What type of home can you build?

Zoning can in some cases determine whether manufactured or mobile homes are allowed, or can place limits on the size or type of home. 

How big is the lot required to be?

If the area around your lot is zoned R-10, that means that it can be subdivided into lots that are no smaller than 10,000 square feet.  R-40 means lots no smaller than 40,000 square feet, or nearly an acre.  This might tell you something about the spacing of future homes.

Manufacturing or retail?

You'll want to check to see if the land right next to yours is zoned for office, commercial, or manufacturing.  Zoning can always change, but chances are with this kind of zoning, you may end up amongst buildings that aren't homes.

5.      What is the soil quality?

If a soil test hasn't been done, you may want to ask for one.  Poor soil can mean difficulties in building a foundation or putting in a septic system. 

6.      What kind of road access is there?

A piece of land that looks like a steal of a deal may not have road access, or may have a gravel or dirt road leading from a main road.  Ask what kind of road frontage the piece of land has.

7.      Is there a natural hazard disclosure?

A natural hazard disclosure will tell you if there are known soil problems, protected habitats on the land, or fire hazards.  Ask your agent. 

8.      Are there any easements on the property?

An easement is a guaranteed access to your land.  This can be anything from a shared driveway to access for Progress Energy. 

9.      What kind of grade is there?

Make sure your lot will have good water run off.  You may want your builder or another expert to give an opinion.  Check out the lot right after a rainstorm.  Some changes may be able to be made, but it depends on the total drainage available.

10.  Has a recent survey been completed?

If a survey has been completed recently, you'll see the little flags marking the boundaries of the lot.  Make sure you understand where your lot begins and ends. 

Making Your Decision

There's a lot that goes into a decision about which lot or piece of land to buy.  Check out the other parts of this series:

Buying a Lot Part 1 - What Kind of Land Should I Look For in the Raleigh Area?

Buying a Lot Part 2 - What's Better, a Lot in a Neighborhood, or a Lone Piece of Land?

If you're already working with a custom home builder, the builder may be able to help you make a final decision, or let you know if your choice will work well for the home plan that you've selected.  It might also be a good idea to work with a real estate agent - a good land agent will know what questions to ask, and will help you find the answers.

You may want to narrow down your choices of home plans ahead of time, so that you'll know for sure that your new home will fit correctly on your new piece of land. 

Get help finding the right lot here.

Get a free lot inspection.

Already own land? Learn about how we can build a custom home on your lot.

 

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Buying a Lot - Part 2 of 3

Buying Property For Your New Home - Tips from a Raleigh Custom Home Builder

A stand alone piece of land, or a lot in a neighborhood?

There are a lot of things to consider when choosing a lot for your new home, beginning with what you want and what that costs.

If you're planning to build in the Raleigh area, you've already handled the most important decision - the region where you want to live.  

Other answers might not be as easy to find. In fact, the piece of property you choose is so important, and there are so many variables to consider, that we'll be providing a three-part series to help guide you through the process.  

As a custom home builder in the Raleigh area, Stanton Homes is often asked these kinds of questions - and we're pleased to provide some tips to keep in mind as you make your decision about what property to buy.

 

Buying a Lot Part 2:  Should I buy an individual parcel of land, or a lot in a subdivision or development?

There are advantages and disadvantages to either approach, even if your budget is unlimited.  

 

A parcel of land

Seclusion -

A larger parcel of land can mean distancing yourself from neighborhoods.  You could be surrounded by fields or forests, without anybody else close by. 

Sound peaceful? Be sure it's going to stay that way.  Find out just who owns that land around the property. How is the area zoned? Any highways, malls, or industrial usage likely to creep up on your privacy in the coming years? And do you really want all that much privacy - or will a neighborhood with acreage - as opposed to square feet for each lot - provide the kind of space you're looking for?

Horses and Animals -

A lone parcel of land in the country may more likely be zoned for horses or other farm animals.   That's great if you plan to raise chickens and pigs or get milk from your own cow. But if your main consideration is a place to keep your horses, don't rule out a more populated area entirely, until you've checked out "horse communities" designed for people who are more interested in keeping a horse on their property than they are in running a ranch. 

Price -

An "undeveloped" piece of land usually costs less.  If your main consideration is lots and lots of land, that can be a good way to go. Just be aware that your building costs may be higher, starting with the prep the property will need, along with special conditions, transport, time and materials.

  

A lot in a development

If you're coming from a condensed area such as New York, Dallas, San Francisco or other large cities where neighborhoods equate to teensy lots, stripped foliage and no privacy, you'll be pleasantly delighted by what the Raleigh/Triangle offers.

Lot Sizes -

Depending on the location, and your budget, there are many neighborhoods where the lot size is over .25 acres. Some offer lots with an acre or more, and, at the upper end of the spectrum, even up to 10 acres per lot.  

In general, you'll get more land for your money - and still have the choice of being in an established neighborhood - in the areas around Clayton, Fuquay-Varina, Youngsville, and Pittsboro - all just a short drive from the more populated points of Research Triangle Park and Raleigh. 

Work with an agent experienced in finding lots in the Raleigh area.

Plenty of Trees -

Although if you'd prefer a lot without a lot of foliage, you can find that, too - many developments in the Raleigh area have been planned to retain a wooded feel. Some back up to protected waterways or woodlands, offering plenty of privacy even when other homes are nearby.  Not all empty spaces are waiting for new homes to be built - some are zoned to stay that way. Ask plenty of questions about what's going to be around your lot!

Roads and Sidewalks -

Don't take roads for granted! If you're looking at a development, you shouldn't have to worry about the infrastructure. Developers are required to build roads, and sometimes even sidewalks, as well as drainage and street lights in most neighborhoods.   This isn't always the case if your parcel of land is located in the countryside. That road may be dirt, or gravel - and you may be responsible for its upkeep.

Zoning -

Even inside a neighborhood, zoning is important. You've got a buffer from what happens outside the development, simply by existing within an area that's going to remain the way it is when you buy, there. But always make sure you know what's outside the perimeter. If the land a block away is zoned commercial or industrial, that's going to hurt your property value. Little neighborhood strip malls can be appealing. But you really don't want them right next door.

Appraisals and Comps -

Most neighborhoods have guidelines as to the types and sizes of homes being built.  There may be a wide range of square footage and sales prices.  But having homes in the same neighborhood with at least some similarities will help appraisers find the appropriate value for your home. 

Neighborhood Guidelines and Homeowner's Associations -

Guidelines and associations vary widely.  If it's important to you that your new home is not next to a manufactured home, and that hot pink is not an exterior color on your street, you may want to consider buying a lot in a neighborhood.  Check homeowner's guidelines carefully.  They're there to protect you, as well as the overall value of the subdivision. 

City Utilities -

Being in a neighborhood doesn't guarantee that you'll have access to city utilities, but it does increase the chances.  A developer is more likely to get the city to extend services to 120 new homes than you will to a single new home on one lot. 

In general, the farther from the center of town, the less likely you'll have access to city water or sewer.  Even in a neighborhood, your property may need a well and a septic system. For more about water and sewer issues, check out the full article:  Build On Your Lot Custom Homes - Water and Sewer - Raleigh Custom Home Builder Series Part One 

If you need a septic system, be sure your lot "perks." This means the land is able to absorb the septic system processes. A specially engineered system for a "no perk" lot can cost $25,000 to $100,000 and require lots of extra maintenance and city approval processes. 

Surveys:  How Big Is That Lot? -

Look for the neon orange or red flags that mark property lines on lots or parcels.  If you're looking at lots in a new neighborhood, surveys have probably been completed recently, and property lines will be clearly marked.  If you're looking at individual parcels of land, ask when the most recent survey was done, and have your agent or builder walk the property line with you.

Electricity -

If you're buying a lot in a neighborhood, the developer will make sure you've got electricity. If you're buying a larger parcel, make sure Progress Energy or other local utilities have already been brought to at least the edge of the property.  If they haven't, you may need to pay for power to be extended from the nearest pole - and you may need to work out access with any neighbor that the power lines need to cross.  

Social Activities -

Check out the neighborhood. How friendly does it feel? Even if you're looking for privacy, those neighbors are going to be an important part of your life. Are you going to feel comfortable striking up the BBQ and inviting them over once in a while? Do they seem like the kind of folks who will look out for you when you need a hand?  Look for a friendly wave when you're driving by, and be sure to wave back. 

 

Whether you find a great piece of property off a private road, or a wonderful neighborhood with an available homesite, make sure to get all your questions answered before you sign a contract.  If you've already chosen a home plan, check and see if the lot you'd like to build on will support that plan in a cost effective manner.   If you're building on a hillside, a daylight basement will be more cost effective than it would be on a relatively flat piece of land.    

This is Part 2 of a three part series on finding a lot in the Raleigh area that's perfect for you. 

Check out Part 1 here:

Buying a Lot - Tips from a Raleigh Custom Home Builder (Part 1 of 3 - What Should I Look For?)

 

 

Custom Building a Home on Your Lot in the Raleigh Area

Building a home on your lot in the Raleigh area is an exciting process.   

As a Raleigh custom home builder, we have a unique perspective on the home building process, and are happy to share our expertise. 

No matter who you choose to build your new home, we suggest that you make sure to walk through homes by that builder that will be finished at a similar level to the home you've chosen, or have your builder's representative point out any optional features in a model home that you have chosen not to include in your new home.

Watch for the next parts in this series, and good luck with your new home!

 

ENERGY STAR Homes in Raleigh - What is an ENERGY STAR home, and how does it save money and resources?

Raleigh Custom Builder Tips - Interior Trim Information, from Baseboards to Crown Molding and Everything In Between

Raleigh Market Report - Raleigh Homes Continue to Sell, Fewer Homes to Choose From

Most Popular Main Floor Master Homes - First Floor Master Bedroom Floor Plans