Know the zoning code

The biggest mistake lot buyers make is the failure to really look into the future, when it comes to choosing a lot. Now to be fair, many will have the presence of mind to ask or find out what is going to be built, or change, in the immediate vicinity of their lot. Like across the street or next door. And that’s a great start; however it’s only scratching the surface. Your major future headaches, and possible negative hits to your property value, will occur in the general area around your lot far more so than next door or across the street.

Know the Zoning

   This is critical. Get your hands on a zoning map or grid from the local town or county office. This is called zoning planning in some areas. More and more, these are available online as well. These maps will tell you what can potentially be built and where. Typically, these maps will have a legend or explainer giving you a basic idea of what each different zone type will accommodate. Learn the meanings of the names of the zoning as well, don’t assume you know what they are! The term “neighborhood commercial’ sounds nice but what does it mean? Is a fast food restaurant, or a bowling alley, or a bar or an auto body shop allowed in neighborhood commercial zone in your area? If you don’t know the answer find out!

   What is the zoning law? Whatis the zoning code? What does it mean to to? Will the zoning board of the local government easily allow a land owner to change the zoning of his property? How could this potentially affect your property and it’s future resale value?

   Again, do not be lulled by a planned community. What can be placed around it? Or, what can be placed within it? Don’t assume anything! This simple step is very often skipped or overlooked, to much dismay. Don’t wake up one morning with a brand new strip mall built at the entrance to your community. Get down to your local office in charge of zoning and find out.

Upcoming Development

   When you’re looking at the zoning in an area also get hold of a Future Land Use Map, Comprehensive Plan, Development Agreements and Planned Unit Development map. These maps will show you what is “on the books” to be built or developed in an area. If you see something coming up in a year that you don’t like, you’re ahead of the game! This process will most likely be far less painful and time consuming than you may be thinking. Even if it is a major hassle, it’s better to know now!

Future Roadways

   As an area grows and expands more roadways are probably going to be a reality in the near future. More homes and businesses means more cars…it’s that simple. When you’re looking into the zoning and grabbing your future land use maps have a government employee point out to you on the maps any new roadways that are planned in the next 20 years. These should be shown on the maps I’ve suggested above but make sure; there may be a separate map you would need to look at.