Before buying a stand on which to build your own house (or, for that matter, before buying an existing house), there are many aspects you should consider carefully. Remember, a house will always be a major investment – by far the single biggest investment many people will ever make.
Physical aspects to consider when picking a new site for your house
Location
Proximity to the neighbours
Orientation of the neighbours' living rooms and bedrooms in relation to your site
Condition of the boundary walls. If there are none this also plays a role.
Security
Accessibility to the site
Existing trees, including the positions, sizes, tree roots and amount of shade
Geological issues - this can severely influence the overall cost of your project
water - both supply and run-off,
Legal aspects to consider when picking a new site for your house
the right to sell,
lease,
build,
mortgage,
use,
occupy
These rights are tied to the land and therefore benefit successive owners.
Always be sure to consider the following aspects and make your own decision on the importance of each aspect:
Ascertain what future development is being considered in the area, such as roads and industrial development.
Determine the location of shopping areas, schools, churches, bus routes, etc.
Check the extent of pedestrian traffic and heavy vehicle flow in the vicinity.
Investigate the condition of the soil – be careful of dolomite and clay conditions – and the extent and condition of the topsoil.
Find out from the local authority about possible restrictions in the town’s Conditions of Establishment, the stand’s title deed or the local authority’s Town Planning Scheme (see the section on Statutory information on page 10). Also make sure that the township has been proclaimed and serviced by the developer.
Is there a pleasant view? Do you need a view?
Where is north and how will it influence the living conditions on the stand?
If the stand is situated on a slope, what becomes of the storm water from higher
lying properties?
What taxes are payable? What municipal services are available, and what are the costs?
What is the size? Can subdivision or a second dwelling or granny flat be accommodated?
