Building a custom home is a thrilling experience, but one of the first and most crucial decisions you’ll make in this journey is choosing the right lot. The type of lot you select can significantly impact not just the construction costs but also your lifestyle and future home value. 

In this article, we’ll explore different types of lots, the pros and cons of each, and guide you in finding the one that aligns best with your vision.

The Different Types of Lots for Building a Custom Home

Let’s break down the pros and cons of different types of lots on which to build your custom home. 

Building a Custom Home on an Urban Lot

When considering an urban lot, it’s essential to factor in the lifestyle you envision. Living in the city offers an array of cultural experiences—museums, theaters, and a plethora of dining options are often just a walk away. However, the bustling environment comes with its drawbacks, like noise pollution and limited green spaces. If you value convenience over tranquility, an urban lot may be right for you.

Pros of Urban Lots:

  • Accessibility: Urban lots are typically located near essential amenities like hospitals, schools, and shopping centers.
  • Public Transportation: Easy access to public transit can reduce commuting costs and time.

Cons of Urban Lots:

  • Price: Land in urban areas is often expensive.
  • Size: Lots are generally smaller, limiting your design options.

Building a Custom Home on a Suburban Lot 

Suburban areas often offer a strong sense of community. Neighborhoods are generally safer, and many have community centers, parks, and even local events. Moreover, suburban lots often come in developments, which means your house will be part of a larger community plan. 

This could include future amenities like a new school or shopping center, which could also add to your property’s value over time.

Pros of Suburban Lots:

  • Affordability: More affordable than urban plots.
  • Space: Usually larger, providing more room for your dream home and potentially a yard.

Cons of Suburban Lots:

  • Commuting: Generally requires a longer commute to work or downtown areas.
  • Amenities: Fewer amenities in walking distance.

Building a Custom Home on a Rural Lot

The appeal of rural lots is the opportunity to live closer to nature. Many choose rural settings to practice a sustainable lifestyle, which may include farming or keeping livestock. However, this self-sufficient lifestyle often requires significant investments like installing a septic system or solar panels for electricity. 

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast or crave solitude, a rural lot provides a blank canvas for your custom home.

Pros of Rural Lots:

  • Cost: Generally the most affordable.
  • Space: Usually the largest plots, offering ample space for any custom home.

Cons of Rural Lots:

  • Isolation: Far from essential services and amenities.
  • Utilities: Additional costs might be incurred for utilities like water, electricity, and sewage systems.

Building a Custom Home on a Waterfront Lot

If water sports or fishing are hobbies you enjoy, a waterfront lot offers direct access to these activities right in your backyard. However, waterfront properties usually have strict building codes to protect the local ecosystem. This might limit the kind of dock or boat storage facilities you can construct. Always check local and state regulations before making your choice.

Pros of Waterfront Lots:

  • Scenic Views: Beautiful water views can be a big selling point.
  • Resale Value: Typically retain high resale value.

Cons of Waterfront Lots:

  • Cost: Waterfront lots are generally expensive.
  • Regulations: There may be stringent building codes and environmental restrictions.

Building a Custom Home on a Sloped Lot

Sloped lots offer opportunities for unique architectural elements like walkout basements or multi-level decks. These features can add significant value to your property. However, the slope will affect drainage and could necessitate a retaining wall, adding extra costs to your build. If you’re up for the challenge, a sloped lot can make for a visually striking home.

Pros of Sloped Lots:

  • Views: Elevated terrain can offer spectacular views.
  • Unique Architecture: Allows for creative architectural solutions.

Cons of Sloped Lots:

  • Construction Difficulty: More complicated and potentially costly to build on.
  • Drainage Issues: May require additional landscaping solutions.

Building a Custom Home on an Infill Lot

Infill lots allow you to insert a new, modern home within an established neighborhood. This mix can offer the best of both worlds—the charm of an older community and the amenities of a new build. However, blending a new construction into an existing neighborhood might limit your design options, as you’ll likely want the aesthetics to align with the surrounding homes.

Pros of Infill Lots:

  • Location: Usually in established neighborhoods with existing amenities.
  • Lower Costs: Utilities are often already available.

Cons of Infill Lots:

  • Size: Generally smaller.
  • Regulations: These may have specific building codes or homeowner association rules.

Building a Custom Home on a Corner Lot

Corner lots can be great if you want to add a circular driveway or if you need more garage space. However, because they face two streets, corner lots often have additional zoning restrictions that might limit the size or positioning of your home. If visibility and ease of access outweigh the concerns about noise and privacy, a corner lot might be a good fit for you.

Pros of Corner Lots:

  • Visibility: Increased street exposure can be beneficial for resale value.
  • Access: Multiple points of entry and exit.

Cons of Corner Lots:

  • Traffic Noise: Usually experience more noise from cars.
  • Privacy: Less privacy due to exposure on two sides.

Which Lot Type Is Best For Your Custom Home in North Carolina?

  • Urban Lots: Best for those who prioritize convenience and access to amenities.
  • Suburban Lots: Ideal for families looking for a balanced lifestyle with more space.
  • Rural Lots: Perfect for those wanting a secluded setting and ample space.
  • Waterfront Lots: Suited for people looking for scenic beauty and willing to invest in premium land.
  • Sloped Lots: Good for those interested in unique architecture and views.
  • Infill Lots: Great for people who want to be in established neighborhoods without the high cost of urban lots.
  • Corner Lots: Best suited for those who want visibility and easy access but don’t mind the drawbacks of noise and reduced privacy.

Choosing the right type of lot is a complex decision, fraught with variables from zoning laws to soil quality. That’s where ExCo Custom Homes comes in. With our expertise in both lot selection and custom home construction, we offer a streamlined, end-to-end solution for your home-building journey.

Let us turn your vision into a stunning reality in North Carolina. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step in creating the home you’ve always wanted.

With ExCo Custom Homes, you’re not just building a house—you’re building a future. Let’s build it together.