Before agreeing to inspect an estate, the estate should already fit into your budget and preferred location so you can make a better decision.
Here are 5 factors you want to look out for while inspecting the estate.
- Accessibility – Pay attention to the access road leading up to the estate. Is it a footpath or a dirt road? Be wary of estates without a clear-cut-out access road.
- Habitation Status – Look out for residential buildings within the immediate environment of the estate. The level of houses within the estate determines when it could become habitable. Is there a power supply within the area?
- Development Status – Are the gatehouse and perimeter fencing already done? Are there other residents inside the estate? Does the estate offer a power supply? Considering these factors would show you how soon you could start your project and live inside the estate
- Topography – While many experienced builders can build houses on sloped land, the truth is that areas with steep slopes or unstable soil may pose risks such as landslides or erosion, affecting the safety of residents and the integrity of buildings. If you don’t have the topography right, you would require additional excavation, grading, and foundation work, which can increase expenses.
- Soil Quality – The soil serves as the foundation for any structure. The composition of the soil can affect the structural integrity of buildings. Always ask questions about the soil type before settling for land purchase. If possible, you could carry out testing on the soil quality before making a purchase.
A good rule of thumb is to make payment only when you’ve physically assessed your plot(s) and they meet the conditions above.
See also 5 land banking tips to maximize returns
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