When you’ve decided to buy land in the Tampa Bay area for a new home, the first step is obvious: you have to find the perfect home site. There’s a lot to think about, though – the site’s location, elevation and size are just a handful of things you need to worry about.
How to Spot the Perfect Home Site
Before you commit to anything, it’s a good idea to do plenty of research. While you may want to live in a particular community, you owe it to yourself to check out other neighborhoods as well.
Do “drive-throughs” in several neighborhoods, and while you’re out, look at:
- Community cleanliness
- Neighborhood activity
- Parking and availability
Do people take good care of their homes? Are the streets clean and free from debris? What about speed bumps – are there measures in place to prevent people from flying through the community in their cars?
When you’ve narrowed down your choices during a daytime drive, swing back by in the evening. A neighborhood that’s quiet and subdued during the day could come alive at night… but you don’t want to wait to find that out until you’ve moved in and you’re trying to relax after a long day.
After you find a home site that looks right, there’s still a little more homework. You’ll need to check whether there’s a homeowners’ association in the neighborhood, and if there is, what it requires of its residents.
Other Considerations When You’re Looking for the Perfect Home Site
Some people want home sites with mature, fully grown trees; others prefer a blank canvas. What’s your preference?
Other things to keep in mind are:
- Proximity to work, school or other locations you travel to and from frequently.
- Most experts recommend that you spend 20 percent (or less) of a home’s total cost on the land.
Ready to Shop for a Home Site in Tampa Bay?
When you’re ready to check out your options in Tampa Bay and the surrounding areas, call us at 727-584-8480 or 813-961-6000. You can also contact us online to tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll start a search on your behalf right away.
