Buy the site with the future home in mind.
A due-diligence guide for buying a Calgary-area lot or acreage for a custom home, including approvals, access, servicing and site risks.
A beautiful lot is not automatically a buildable lot for your intended home. Before removing purchase conditions, review land use, title restrictions, access, utilities, water and wastewater, topography, drainage, geotechnical risk, environmental constraints and the likely approval path.
A pre-purchase property screen
The right review team depends on the parcel, but early questions are remarkably consistent.
- Land-use designation and allowable form
- Title, easements and restrictive covenants
- Legal and construction access
- Water, wastewater, power and gas
- Survey, grades, drainage and geotechnical inputs
- Wildfire, flood or environmental context where applicable
Connect site and budget
Earthwork, retaining, long utility runs, access roads and servicing can consume budget without adding finished floor area. Include them before comparing land options.
Clear answers for early decisions.
Should I hire a builder before buying land?
Early builder and design input can help identify obvious feasibility and cost risks. Legal, survey, planning and technical specialists may also be required before purchase.
