Buying first in a subdivision

Purchasing one of the first lots in a brand new subdivision often will get you a pretty good deal, as far as the cost of the lot goes. Before you get too far into the process, ask to see a complete plan of the entire subdivision’s intended build out. Very often, developers will release lots in phases (for example release 50 lots, and then 50 more in the next phase), and you want to see the entire plan, not just the plan for the first or current phase. What you are looking for is the total number of homes that will be built in the future in that entire subdivision.

If a lot, and therefore your future home, will be one of the first in the neighborhood beware: most likely, for the rest of the construction of that area, every dump truck, lumber yard truck, concrete truck, piece of heavy machinery and backhoe will drive past your driveway, or at least your street, day in and day out. Add to that every car and truck belonging to roofers, electricians, plumbers, framers, cabinet installers, tile guys, carpet guys, trim guys, landscapers, inspectors, future home owners, people looking at lots and homes for sale, real estate agents and a myriad of other subcontractors, and people directly or indirectly in the development process.

This never ending parade of construction traffic and noise may not be confined to a standard Monday to Friday week either. Construction in many developments can occur on Saturdays as well. And even with no construction on Sundays, expect lookers and Real Estate Agents to be driving around your neighborhood.

This is a pro and con type situation. If you find that the development will be somewhat small, and the build out will take a relatively short time, maybe this is something you can deal with. If your home will be one of the first of seven hundred homes, then you are in for a long haul of construction traffic. However, if your lot is removed from the main street in the neighborhood, perhaps you won’t be as affected. Then again, the price point of the lot may outweigh the possible hassle and disruption. A great deal on a good lot and or a new home can take the sting out of having to put up with construction traffic for a while. Consider also that if you hold a typical 9-5 job, you’ll only really have to deal with it first thing in the morning and on your return from work.