: Look for utility or access easements that give others the right to use parts of your property, which can strictly limit where you can place a foundation.

Buying land to build a home is more complex than buying an existing house because you are essentially purchasing a project's potential rather than a finished product. The "perfect" lot can quickly become a financial burden if hidden site conditions or legal restrictions prevent you from building your vision. 1. Zoning and Legal Restrictions

: Verify the land is zoned for residential use. Some agricultural land cannot be developed or has high minimum acreage requirements for a home.

: If the land is in a development, review the CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions) which may dictate everything from house style and size to the color of your mailbox. 2. Physical Site Characteristics