The Phoenix Valley, AZ, is a great place to live due to its diverse outdoor activities, thriving culture, and warm weather.

The area also has access to urban amenities and nearby desert landscapes, making it a great location for people with different lifestyles.

The homeownership rate in the US is rising, with Bankrate reporting it to be 65.6% by the second quarter of 2024.

When you buy land to build a house, you’re closer to creating your dream customized Phoenix home.

However, you must plan and have good attention to detail to secure the best land.

A checklist will ensure you don’t miss any step during the purchase and protect your finances.

Here is a comprehensive land checklist for home building.

Budgeting and Financing

The cost of land in the Phoenix Valley can vary based on factors such as:

  • The location
  • Size
  • Accessibility
  • Nearby amenities

Proximity to urban centers and sought-after neighborhoods will drive up land prices.

Besides, larger plots are generally more expensive, but the price per acre will often be lower for extensive parcels.

Lands near major roads and highways are more valuable than those further away.

Those with limited road access may require you to construct driveways or road easements.

The presence of schools, shopping centers, and recreational facilities can boost a plot’s appeal and its price.

Land near well-rated schools or bustling community hubs in Phoenix tends to cost more but may appreciate over time.

Determine where you want to build to start budgeting for the purchase and narrow your options.

During the process, you should include other costs that may increase the land price, such as:

  • Permits
  • Legal fees
  • Site preparation
  • Utility connection

Once you have a clear budget, liaise with a home builder or luxury home remodeling expert to get financing for land purchases.

Understand Zoning Laws and Building Regulations

Your land checklist for home building must include researching local zoning laws and building regulations.

Verify the land you want to buy is zoned for residential use to avoid extra costs and construction delays.

Check with the local planning office for any restrictions on the following;

  • Building height
  • Lot coverage
  • Setbacks from roads and neighboring property

Working with a home building contractor is the best way to ensure you follow zoning and building regulations.

The expert will determine what you’re looking for in a custom home and help you choose land aligning with your goals.

Understanding the Land’s Topography

While beautiful mountain views or desert scenery may be appealing, a land’s characteristics will guide your home design and planning process.

Steeper areas will likely require extensive grading, retaining walls, and other adjustments.

Sloping land, on the other hand, requires less grading and has natural drainage.

It will simplify house construction and save you time and resources.

Work with a custom home builder to review potential lots and discuss each site’s needs and building opportunities.

Doing so lets you know what to expect during the construction and ensures you design a home that blends with its surroundings.

Conducting a Soil Test and Land Survey

Once you have several plots in mind, the next step should be testing the soil and surveying the land to ensure it’s suitable for construction.

The soil in Phoenix Valley varies, so some areas may be rocky or clay-rich, affecting the foundation.

Testing it will reveal if the land requires special grading, soil replacement, or drainage solutions.

Custom home builders in Phoenix can work with experts to ensure you choose a prime piece of land.

They will also liaise with a surveyor to map out your property’s boundaries and avoid disputes with neighbors.

The surveyor will also identify any utility easement or access roads on your property and advise you on the way forward.

Inspecting the Site for Regulatory Concerns

Another aspect to add to your land purchase guide is inspecting for archeological and environmental concerns.

Arizona has environmental regulations to protect natural resources.

Research whether your land has protected species that could affect construction.

Certain properties also contain wetlands or flood zones, which may restrict buildings or require extra measures to control erosion.

Phoenix has hundreds of archaeological and historical sites, as stated in an article by the City of Phoenix.

So, it’s not uncommon to discover sites with historical importance, given the city’s rich cultural history.

Work with your custom home builder to ensure the selected land does not contain historical artifacts or burial grounds.

They can contact local authorities or consult a land surveyor familiar with the landscape to avoid potential conflicts and delays.

The Benefits of Working With Phoenix Custom Home Builders

Working with a builder experienced in land transactions can simplify the purchase and ensure you know all potential hurdles.

Here is a summary of different ways they can help you:

  • Navigating legalities and permits
  • Budgeting for hidden costs
  • Choosing the best land for your goals
  • Connecting you with trusted experts
  • Providing building a house tips

Builders will help you get permits and navigate zoning laws.

They’ll know the ins and outs of local building requirements and may help speed up paperwork and approvals.

Land purchases often include hidden costs, and an experienced builder can give you an overview of these expenses.

They also have insights into Phoenix Valley’s land characteristics and building regulations.

They will guide you in selecting a property that aligns with your architectural vision.

Such could include maximizing views, ensuring privacy, or preserving natural features of the land.

Custom house builders in Phoenix often have connections with local professionals who can assist in purchasing and building.

These experts will handle the entire process, giving you peace of mind.

Besides, they’ll ensure your house construction checklist is comprehensive and within your budget.

Buy Land to Build a House With 4 Gen Homes

Buying land for a dream home is an exciting journey, but you need a checklist to ensure a successful outcome.

Budget and understand the local regulations that could affect construction.

You should also liaise with professionals for land surveys, soil testing, and site inspections.

At 4 Gen Homes, we will be your trusted partner when you want to buy land to build a house.

We can help you with pre-construction planning and assembling a team of experienced designers, vendors, and subcontractors.

Contact us to discuss your project.

Looking for a General Contractor for Luxury Home Building?
Connect with 4 Gen Homes, your experts in crafting luxury custom homes. Our experienced team is committed to transforming your vision into reality with exceptional craftsmanship.
Reach out today for a consultation or call (602) 694-7030 to discuss your luxury home project!