Patio lots

   The Patio Lot is an intentionally small lot with rules and requirements different than those for “normal” lots within the same development. The small size of the lot generally means the homes will also be closer together and patio lots are often clustered or grouped together. For example, an entire side of a street, or an entire area within a community, may all be patio lots.

   One of the most striking differences is the ability to place the edge of a home directly on, or very close to, the lot line. This is often called a “zero lot line” setup. There are often no setbacks on at least one side of these lots.  Requirements will vary depending on the specific community, however often some sort of common wall or “Privacy Wall” will be part of those rules. A privacy wall could mean a fence-type structure is required between the homes. Another variation on the privacy wall is that one side of the home (it would be the same side for all homes on the street) can contain no windows, or only transom windows. The intention here is to prevent two homes from having windows that look “into” each other from such a short distance. This allows the homes to be very close together while still offering a feeling of privacy.

   The popularity of this lot style is growing, and for some good reasons. First of all, the smaller lot size typically means the lots will cost less, and often taxes are a bit lower (less land tends to equal a smaller tax bill), compared to other more standard sized lots within the subdivision or community. This may allow someone to purchase land in a specific neighborhood and enjoy all the perks, without having to break the bank. Another benefit to some is very limited yard space. For some young families, busy professionals and retirees working on and maintaining a yard is too much work, too time consuming, and they just don’t want the hassle. With the home taking up the majority, or in some cases all, of the lot you simply don’t need a lawnmower or yard service. 

   When looking at patio, or sero lot line, piece of land to buy take the time to see how existing homes in the area relate to each other. Take note of how close they are together, if the (small) backyards are able to be fenced in for added privacy, the length of the driveways (are they long enough to park your car in?), and the style of privacy wall in the surrounding area.