When you are building a custom home, there are myriad decisions that you make as part of the process, from size and layout to fittings and fixtures. One of the most critical is determining whether you should build on your own lot or in a community.

There are certainly benefits to each option, and ultimately, the best choice is the one that works for your needs, lifestyle, and dreams. Here are a few considerations for each option to keep in mind.

Pros and Cons of Building on Your Own Lot

One of the biggest reasons to build on your own lot is that you may already own it! If you’ve had a piece of property that has been in your family or that you purchased during an advantageous market, building a custom home is a great way to maximize your investment – and enjoyment.

Other benefits of building on your own lot may include:

  • Flexibility in design. Theoretically, there are no limits on design when you select your own lot. You have the freedom to customize your space and to integrate the features of the land. (More on this in a moment).
  • Opportunities. When you live in a community, there are often guidelines in terms of outbuildings, guest houses, detached garages, etc. When you have your own building lot, and it is large enough, you can add on in the future. If you feel like including a large workshop or a little cottage for your elderly parents or older children, for example, you can do so with proper clearance from zoning officials.
  • Increasing the value of your property. As mentioned, if you already own a lot, building a custom house can add tremendous value. Even if you do not plan on selling, you can take advantage of the equity.

Also consider, though, the associated costs of building on your own lot. These include:

  • Soil inspection. Is your land safe to build on? What issues may you run into or have to design around?
  • Preparing the land. You will likely have to excavate, remove trees, move earth, etc.
  • Building a driveway. This must be up to code with the proper grading and culverts, depending on the lay of your land.
  • Setting up utilities. If your land isn’t already equipped, you will have to run power lines, sewer hookups (e.g. septic or town/city system), and establish a water source (e.g. well, town/city water supply).

G&G is happy to answer any questions you have about building on your lot. As always, our goal is to make the entire process streamlined, smooth, and most of all, enjoyable. Even if you do not yet have a lot, don’t let that stop you from reaching out. In fact, connecting with your builder before you purchase a lot (if you do not already own one) can save untold time, hassle, and even expense.

"There are certainly benefits to each option, and ultimately, the best choice is the one that works for your needs, lifestyle, and dreams."

Pros and Cons of Building in a Community

Building in a community offers a number of advantages. The issues we discussed above, such as soil and land inspections, prepping the property, building driveways, and setting up utilities are already solved. As part of a community, these amenities are in place, so while you are building your home from the ground up, you are not starting from scratch!

Another benefit of living in a community are the features that they often offer. These may include:

  • Nature trails
  • Parks and playgrounds
  • Dog parks
  • Golf courses
  • Clubhouse-style buildings with dining, social events, and fitness facilities/classes
  • Beautiful landscapes featuring ponds, streams, brooks, hills, wooded areas, open spaces, etc.

Some people are hesitant about building in a community because they fear their home will be “cookie cutter.” We mentioned that flexibility is a key benefit of building on your own lot. But building in a community needn’t limit your design freedom at all. G&G specializes in working with you to understand your needs and wants, integrate unique features of the land, and build your dream home. There is no need to compromise.

In fact, in our communities, the landscape is so varied that no two lots are the same – just as no two houses are the same. Rest assured that when we say “custom” we mean custom, down to every detail.

Potential drawbacks to buying in a community? Well, it does depend on the community! Some are cookie cutter; some feature small lots where you are in close proximity to your neighbors; and some have only basic amenities. This works for many. If it does not suit your needs or lifestyle, select a community that offers the features that will enhance your living experience.

Chatham Hills, Holiday Farms, and Maple Ridge are all unique, full of personality, and deliver an abundance of opportunities for recreation, fitness, socialization, nature activities, and of course, solitude, peace, quiet, and relaxation whenever you need it.

Start with Your Custom Home Builder

Whether you want to build on your own lot or in a community, start the custom home process by reaching out to your builder. They can advise on the best next steps to take in order to start bringing your vision to life.

G&G currently builds in three vibrant communities with amenities including large lots, ponds, streams, creeks, and wooded areas, golf courses designed by the legendary course architect Pete Dye, parks, playgrounds, social meeting areas, such as clubhouses, miles of nature trails, and more.

We are also able to build on your lot and integrate all of the features and elements you have always dreamed of. G&G is experienced in building a wide variety of styles and in a wide variety of settings.

So, should you build on your own lot or in a community? Whatever works best for you. If you would like assistance making this decision, contact G&G today to start the conversation. Our goal is to ensure you move into your forever home…. wherever that may be.

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