What to Avoid When Buying Land to Build on in Bucks County

Buying land to build your dream home or investment property is a thrilling endeavor, but it comes with a host of potential pitfalls. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, knowing what to watch out for can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to avoid when purchasing land in Bucks and Montgomery County, with insights from a seasoned Doylestown real estate lawyer.

1. Is the Lot Buildable?

Before anything else, ensure that the land is buildable. This might seem obvious, but many buyers overlook this critical step. A Bucks County real estate lawyer can help you navigate local regulations and zoning laws to confirm that you can legally build the type and size of house you envision.

2. Perc Test Validity and Septic System Suitability

Make sure the site has passed a perc test that is still valid. Perc tests determine the soil’s ability to absorb water, which is crucial for installing a septic system. Some tests expire after 2-3 years, so you’ll need to ensure that the results are current and suitable for a conventional septic system or identify if an expensive alternative system is needed. The type of septic system required can significantly impact your budget and planning.

3. Clear Boundaries and Title

Verify that the boundaries of the property are clearly and accurately marked. A survey can confirm this and help prevent disputes with neighbors. Additionally, the seller must provide clear title for the property. A Doylestown real estate lawyer can assist with title searches and ensure there are no liens or encumbrances.

4. Zoning and Building Restrictions

Check that the land is zoned for your intended use and the type of house you plan to build. Zoning laws can restrict what you can build and where you can build it. Your house plans must comply with local setbacks, zoning restrictions, septic system regulations, and other local rules.

5. Legal Access and Road Maintenance

Ensure there is legal access to the property by road or right-of-way. It’s also important to know who maintains the road. In some cases, maintenance might be your responsibility, which could add to your costs and responsibilities.

6. Liens, Right-of-Ways, Easements, and Deed Restrictions

It’s crucial to identify any liens, rights-of-way, easements, covenants, or other deed restrictions on the property. These legal constraints can significantly impact your ability to use and develop the land. A Bucks County real estate lawyer can conduct thorough title searches and reviews to uncover any such encumbrances, ensuring you know exactly what you’re getting into and how it might affect your plans.

7. Environmental Concerns

Investigate whether the land was previously used to store old vehicles, farm chemicals, industrial chemicals, or other toxins that you might need to clean up. Additionally, check if the property lies in a floodplain, and if there are any endangered or protected species that could impact your building plans.

9. Construction Issues

Assess whether there is adequate access for construction equipment. Be aware of problem soils, such as expansive clay or uncompacted fill, and whether the area is prone to high radon readings. Also, check for a high seasonal water table, seasonal streams, or low-lying areas that could flood, and ensure the land can accommodate necessary construction, like engineered foundations or large areas of cut and fill.

10. Design Considerations

Evaluate the land’s topography: is it flat or sloping, wooded or open, shaded or sunny? Consider the solar and wind exposure to optimize your home’s design for energy efficiency and comfort.

11. Main Cost Factors

Understand the full cost implications of purchasing and preparing the land. This includes the cost of land acquisition, legal fees for title searches and title insurance, surveys, and any necessary variances or challenges. Also, account for water and sewer connection fees, utility connection fees, septic system installation, well installation, land clearing, excavation, grading, landscaping, road/driveway construction, and various permits and fees. Additionally, be aware of potential impact fees, which can be substantial and vary widely.

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Navigating these complexities requires careful planning and expert advice. A Doylestown real estate lawyer can be an invaluable ally in helping you avoid these pitfalls and make informed decisions. With their guidance, you can confidently proceed with your land purchase and build the home or investment property of your dreams.

Contact Our Doylestown Real Estate Lawyer Today

For more tips and personalized assistance, contact a Bucks County real estate lawyer today. Your dream project deserves the best start possible! We’re here to help you succeed. Call us at (215) 396-1020 or fill out our online contact form to get started.