26 February, 2024
What to Look for When Buying Land in Melbourne
So you’ve set your sights on building your dream home, starting with the perfect canvas – a block of land. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or dipping your toes into the property market, buying land comes with its own considerations. This guide will help simplify the process, providing a straightforward guide on what to consider when purchasing land in this lively city.
1. Location, Location, Location
It’s a cliché for a reason. Your land’s location greatly influences your lifestyle and the value of your investment. Consider your daily needs:
- Proximity to essentials: Think schools, shops, healthcare, public transport. Will your commute be manageable? Does the area have the amenities you value?
- Neighbourhood vibe: Bustling inner-city buzz or peaceful suburban haven? Consider noise levels, green spaces, and the overall community feel.
- Growth potential: Research the suburb’s projected growth and development. Could this affect your property value in the future?
- Accessibility: Ensure the land has good access to major roads and public transport options.
2. Beyond the Street Sign
Once you’ve narrowed down your location, delve deeper into the specifics of each block and how it will impact your new custom house built by local builders in Melbourne:
- Size and shape: Does the block size accommodate your dream house design? Consider future landscaping, pools, or extensions. Awkward shapes can add construction complexities.
- Topography: Flat land is the most straightforward to construct on, but slopes can offer stunning views (and construction challenges)—factor in the cost of earthworks and retaining walls.
- Soil type: Clay soils can be costly for foundations, while sandy soils might require drainage solutions. Get a soil test to understand any potential issues.
3. Unveiling the Hidden Gems
Before you fall in love with the view, don’t forget these crucial checks so you can have a custom design and build completed with fewer complexities with a custom home builder in Melbourne:
- Zoning restrictions: Check the council’s zoning regulations to ensure your desired finished house complies with permitted uses and height restrictions.
- Covenants and easements: Are there any restrictions on having your custom home builder in Melbourne from designing and constructing a specific house style, fences, or pool placement? Easements might give others access to your land for utilities.
- Utility access: Are essential services like power, water, sewer, and internet readily available? While most developments have these, rural or undeveloped land may not, so you must research. Connecting them can be expensive if they’re not.
4. Planning for the Future
When deciding to purchase land and engage the services of a custom builder, it is easy to forget your long-term needs. Consider the following so you’re prepared for now and in the future:
- Bushfire and flood risks: Check if the land is in a designated risk zone, which can impact insurance and construction regulations.
- Sun orientation: North-facing blocks offer better natural light and warmth, while south-facing ones might require clever design to maximise sunlight.
- Long-term investment potential: Consider the suburb’s future development and how it might affect your property value.
5. Bonus Tip
Engage the experts! A qualified surveyor or a custom home builder located in Melbourne can offer invaluable insights into the block’s suitability and potential challenges.
Your Path to the Perfect Land Purchase in Melbourne
Buying land is an exciting part of living in the house you’ve always dreamed about, but thorough research and due diligence are key. By considering these crucial factors, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect block where your story unfolds brick by beautiful brick.
For more expert advice and personalised guidance, reach out to our team at Yorcon and let’s make your dreams a reality.