Factors need to consider before buying a block of land in Canberra

Buying land is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make, so considering where you want to live is crucial. When choosing a block of land in Canberra, price isn’t the only factor to consider. Some blocks of land will be easier to build on than others and some will have higher site costs especially if it is Incline blocks. How do you know which is the most suitable block for your family? Let’s discuss the key points below:

Location
Orientation
Block Shape and Size
Block setback
Vicinity of Suburb 
Soil Classification
Suburb Guidelines
Transportation

Location:

There are so many options to consider. The very first question is ‘Where do you want a new house in Canberra? Which suburbs do you think are more convenient for you and suit your requirements. 

• Which suburbs are close to your preferred local amenities like shops, schools, gym, recreational activities, public transport, and childcare?
• Do you prefer established north or south suburbs with an abundance of trees, Valley, and close to reserves? 
• What is the proximity to where you work, family, friends and other activities?
• What is the traffic like in those areas especially during peak hour?
• Or, are you more attracted to newly developed sustainable Canberra suburbs with well-designed parks and recreational areas like Strathnairn in Ginninderry or Denman Prospect?
• Or else the area like Taylor, Whitlam, and Throsby. Which is closer to reserve and community centres?

Block Shape and Size:

If possible, buy flat, rectangular block, as this will minimize site costs and allow a bigger range of designs than odd-shaped or awkward sites would. Sometimes it is very difficult to buy flat blocks you may go with least sloping site/ contour. 

Sloping sites can be great for any number of reasons but the cost of developing them, retaining wall, site cost, rock excavation, especially on a budget, often means less money to be spent finishing your home. 

Block setback:

Make sure when you choose a bock there is no easements or other condition like solar. Easements may affect your house design because you can put concrete and create structure. We need to leave 3 Meter at least. Mains services are the most common easement, and this may restrict your build area to the point that you can’t get the size of home on the block that you want. 

Soil Classification:

Soil conditions will vary from site to site in Canberra.  The results of a soil test (also known as a lot classification or residential geotechnical report) by an engineer will determine the correct foundation for your new home in Canberra.  It’s important to understand what’s below the surface of your block before you start building to avoid any nasty surprises. We can point you in the right direction if you're not sure where to start?

Suburb Guidelines:

There are many guidelines given by the suburb which we need to consider. Suburb like Ginninderry and Whitlam you do not have the natural gas connection. These are sustainable development. They have specific rules for the roof colour.