What to Look for in a Homesite: Expert Advice for Selecting the Perfect Property
When looking to build a home, your homesite is just as important as the home itself, and with many variables, it’s of paramount importance to select the right location.
Project Featured: Modern European Cottage
Architect: Rehkamp Larson Architects
Landscaping: Yardscapes, Inc.
Interior Design: Alecia Stevens Interiors
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Homesite
Your location should fit your lifestyle and the plans you have for yourself and those living with you. It’s important to be close to the things that matter. If you have children, consider what school district you would like to live in. If you are active, consider what local amenities there are, such as trails, parks, and country clubs. If you value leisure activities, be sure that you have space to include some on your own property or are near places where you can gather with friends, such as restaurants, golf courses, and pickleball courts. If privacy is important, you’ll want to look for more spread-out neighborhoods with more trees and larger yards.
Once you’ve narrowed down your area, it’s time to start evaluating homesites. Some things will be apparent just by looking, but others require an expert’s eye and testing. Understanding the contours, drainage, and soil quality of your homesite are all extremely important steps. Someone with expertise in these fields can help you find out whether the home you dream of can work on the property and what natural elements of the lot could cause any potential issues down the line.
Zoning and property restrictions are another critical consideration. Regulations from local governments or homeowners’ associations (HOAs) can dictate how much of the lot can be built on (impervious surface/hardcover limits), how close a home can be to the water or property lines (setbacks), and other key factors. These rules vary by city, county, and even neighborhood. In some cases, creative water management and strategic planning can help secure variances to loosen certain restrictions. Working with an expert ensures you understand these limitations upfront—and, when possible, how to navigate them. Finally, you must consider all the physical aspects of the homesite. The shape of the property can often dictate the size, shape, or orientation of a home, so if you have a particular plan in mind, you’ll want to make sure the potential homesite can accommodate it. Other things to consider are existing trees (or lack thereof) and sunlight. Trees can be an amazing feature on your property and create a cozy, private environment. Sometimes, they can be a hindrance to construction. Consider how existing trees may impact your construction plans and whether their removal could come at a high cost. The importance of sunlight in your home cannot be understated. Not every property will have views of the sun where you enjoy it most. Be sure to understand the sun’s position throughout the day and across seasons to ensure your home receives the ideal amount of natural light.
A Cottagewood Homesite: From Buying the Property to Completing an Unlikely and Perfectly Quaint Dream Home
It all started with a small lot in the charming lake community of Cottagewood in Deephaven, Minnesota. A buyer approached Kyle Hunt about his listing (listed with Coldwell Banker), bringing with them an architect (Rehkamp Larson Architects) and a vision for their future dream home. By involving Kyle Hunt & Partners from the very beginning, the process became a true collaboration, combining expertise, creativity, and careful planning.
With an accurate and detailed survey, the team assessed the possibilities for the home on the site. Kyle’s deep knowledge of zoning and site restrictions allowed the team to stand on the property and map out exactly how the home would take shape. Because of this early involvement, the client saved valuable time and resources, gaining confidence in their purchase before committing.
Buying a property is one thing—knowing with certainty that it can become the home you envision is another. That’s where we come in. From the moment you have that bright idea, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
How Kyle Hunt & Partners Can Be Your Guide
There are many complicated parts to selecting the right homesite. But at KH&P, we believe that the process of building a home should be exciting and fun! From the inception of the idea to moving in and beyond, it is our goal to bring joy and expertise to the process of creating your dream home. With 35 years of experience and success, we are proud to say we take the guesswork out of selecting a homesite that’s right for you.