John and Natasha Karadsheh
Have you ever considered building a custom home? Perhaps you have driven around, looked at lots in the area, drawn a sketch of your perfect floorplan, or even started a Pinterest board for your dream kitchen.
While the design details are important, the first step in the process is choosing the right lot. Here are some important things to consider as you evaluate properties and plan your project.
- Understand the topography. So many lots in our area are on a hillside or have natural washes running through the property. The cost of grading, and installing proper drainage and retention, can quickly escalate into the tens of thousands of dollars. Get all the details before you buy so you understand approximately what it will cost to get the property ready to build.
- Are utilities on site? It is very important to understand how you are going to get power and water to your home, and also how you will take waste away from the property. Do water lines run to the property or will you need to figure out how to install a water tank? Is there a well you can share and, if so, is the well agreement favorable? Is the sewer in and connected or will you need a septic tank? Is there gas in the area or will you need to install a propane tank? How far are the main utilities from the property and what will the cost be to get them connected to your property?
- Conduct a soils test. Soils vary in type, composition, and strength, and the right combination is necessary to support the weight of a foundation. Knowing your soil is critical to getting proper pricing for lot preparation.
- Is there a homeowner’s association? Most HOA’s require architectural review. Find out how much it will cost to have your plans reviewed and be sure that the type of house you want to build will fit within the building requirements established by the subdivision.
- Will the house you want to build fit on the lot? Understand the lot setbacks, slope, and limitations (rights-of-way, easements) before you design your dream home.
- Select a well-established builder who has the experience to build a quality home and keep you on budget. The construction labor market is very tight right now, so an experienced builder with a good list of subcontractors will help you keep your project on schedule.
Building a custom home can be a great experience as long as you go into the process knowing that there will be many challenges and decisions along the way. We have sold many lots and are happy to answer questions or put you in touch with a great builder who can help you evaluate a lot. Give us a call any time with your real estate or building questions!
John and Natascha Karadsheh are co-owners of KOR Properties. John has been a Multi-Million Dollar producing agent for over 17 years, and is an Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR) and a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS). Natascha is a graduate of Princeton University and the Chairwoman of the City of Mesa Economic Development Advisory Board. You can reach John at (602) 615-0843 and Natascha at (602) 909-4995, or visit their website at KORproperties.com. KOR Properties is a boutique real estate brokerage serving the Valley of the Sun, and the creator and founding sponsor of Mesa Food Truck Fridays.