2. Your Lot

Let's talk about lot selection. Most homebuilders charge a premium for cul-de-sac lots and corner lots. Let's talk about corner lots first. There are added costs associated with corner lots. If you have privacy fencing, the outside fence's total cost goes to that lot. Public sidewalks add cost, the extra sod and dirt used for grading add cost. You get the benefit of no neighbor on that side, and usually your lot is a little larger. Sometimes there is an easement, but it is your yard so a put a swing, barbeque or maybe hammock on it.  You can not put permanent structures on top of easements.  Cul-de-sac lots have their own benefits, no thru traffic, and a great place to put a basketball goal, hockey net, etc., for the kids. Generally your front yard is going to be smaller than the yards of your neighbors. Lots at the back of the cul-de-sac are pie shaped which sometimes gives you different shaped rear yards based on your home’s footprint. Think about your family, where you want to be in time, how long you are going to be in your home, and do not forget--KID'S GROW UP. I think a lot of people find their homes and yards are great for them now, just to find out in three to five years they can't function in it. Your homebuilder and/or your realtor want a sale; sorry--they want a closing. To them your home might be just another house, rather a paycheck. You have to really look out for your own interest. Once you have found a lot that will satisfy your wants and/or needs, next we have to talk about foundations.