How to choose the right block of land to build your home

When it comes to building your dream home, the block of land you choose is equally important as the home design. Your chosen block will influence the size, layout and overall look of your home, so it’s an important decision! Whilst most people will rate location and size as their most important factors when choosing a block, there are a lot of other things to consider as well. The wrong soil type could end up costing you thousands, so this is not a decision you should ever make hastily!

Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a block: 

Location

It is, of course, very important to think about the location of your block. Is it located in a convenient spot for you to reach work, for your kids to get to school? Is it near amenities and close to places you’d like to visit on the weekend, and how well located is it within the estate or suburb that it exists in? Whilst some blocks may be located close to shops or directly across from a park, you might want to think twice about a block on a busy main highway! At St Leonards Private Estate, you’ll find all of our blocks within easy walking distance from a planned central plaza and beautiful green spaces. 

Size

The size of your block will have a considerable impact on the type of home you can build. At St Leonards Private Estate we have a range of land options available to suit different lifestyles and budgets. Certain estates may cater to different needs with small terrace blocks (140 sqm – 225 sqm) right through to large homestead style blocks (1500sqm and above). Smaller blocks may face some design constraints and may require alterations to your home design. 

Shape

The shape of your chosen block will also have an impact on the house design you choose. Narrow blocks, or particularly unusual blocks can be difficult to build on and may require a little more thought and planning in order to properly utilise the space. 

Frontage

Purchasing a block with a narrow frontage may mean that you have to make a few compromises on design – you might have to forgo a double garage for instance. Blocks with very wide frontages may also call for some differences in design, as they tend to be less deep. Whilst wide frontage blocks tend to lend themselves to open plan design, some people prefer the flow of a home on a deeper block. Think about what kind of floor plan you prefer before you select your block. 

Orientation

Your block’s orientation will have an impact on natural light, as well as the heating and cooling inside your home. When choosing the layout of your home, you’ll want to make sure it can be positioned to maximise light and energy efficiency. 

Soil type

In Australia, there are six different classifications of soil type – with each classification relating to how likely it is that soil shifting will occur. Class A soil is the best for home building as it means there is very little ground movement. Soil types that are more likely to cause shifting will require more preparation, bigger house footings and will attract higher costs. Before you make a purchase, you’ll also want to consider whether a vacant block needs to be cleared and levelled prior to building as this can add a lot to the cost of your new home. 

Titled or untitled?

If you’re not in a hurry to start building, then an untitled block can save you a bit of money. Titled blocks on the other hand are ready for you to start building right away, which means you can get into your new home sooner. 

Zoning

The zoning of your block will determine what type of dwelling you can build on it. In Australia there are many different R-codes available. Low density blocks will be zoned R-25 and below, whilst R30 through to R60 is medium density and R80 (and beyond) are for high density areas. 

Budget

When choosing a block, it’s important to take your budget into account. House and land packages can be a great way to get a full picture of the cost of your home. If you’re planning to buy a block and find a builder, make sure you factor in the costs of a home design and construction. 

Ready to find your perfect block? Browse our land for sale page to see what we have to offer, or get in touch with us today to register your interest!