8 Tips for Selecting a Lot for Your Atlanta Custom Home

How to Choose a Lot for Your Custom Atlanta Home

Choosing a lot for your custom home in Atlanta involves thinking about more than just how the land looks. From location to layout, every aspect of your lot will play into the overall design, function, and cost of your custom home.

We're offering a clear and concise breakdown of what to look for to ensure you’re getting the best foundation for your custom build. Whether you’re interested in new home communities in Acworth or looking into buying land in Roswell, GA, a well-chosen lot can make all the difference in your custom home journey.

What to Consider When Buying a Piece of Land for Your Custom Home

Building a custom home means you have the freedom to shape every detail, starting with the land. Knowing what to look for in a lot for your custom home will help you avoid costly surprises and build a home that fits your vision. The top factors to consider when buying land for your custom home in North Metro Atlanta are:

1. Lot Size

Larger lots give you room to create spacious yards, outdoor kitchens, or play areas for kids, all while keeping a comfortable distance from neighboring homes. Think about how much space you want around your home for privacy, outdoor activities, or future expansions. Lot size can have a big impact on the lifestyle you envision.

If you’re looking for oversized lots that offer flexibility for landscaping, recreation, or even additional structures, Maison at Hollyberry is a great choice. Investing in community living offers a lot of perks, so it's worth looking into even if you're not sold on the idea just yet. 

2. Land Use/Zoning

Zoning laws and land use restrictions can greatly affect what you can and cannot build on a property. Always check local zoning requirements and restrictions for things like residential or commercial use, allowable building heights, and any additional structures you may want to add in the future like ADUs, a detached garage, or a second-story addition.

These regulations may also limit land use for recreational purposes, so be sure the lot aligns with your plans.

3. Proximity to Work & Schools

If your work or children’s schooling is a regular part of your daily routine, consider how close the lot is to these essentials. Building in new home communities near Atlanta—like those in Roswell or Cumming—gives you convenient access to top-rated schools, making it easier for families to establish roots.

Reducing your commute time can make daily life more enjoyable and allow you to spend more time at home rather than on the road. A well-chosen location balances convenience and quality of life, giving you more time to enjoy your custom-built space with your family.

4. Neighborhood Safety

Choosing a safe neighborhood provides peace of mind and contributes to the overall quality of life for your family. Look for areas known for low crime rates and strong community engagement.

Locations like Roswell and Johns Creek offer established neighborhoods where safety and community are valued. When selecting a lot, a safe environment is essential for long-term happiness and stability.

5. Close Proximity to Recreational Activities

Think about the recreational activities you enjoy most and choose a lot close to those amenities. If you love golfing, swimming, or even just walking in scenic areas, look for communities that make it easy to enjoy these activities.

Governors Towne Club offers amenities like a championship golf course, tennis courts, and a luxurious pool, making it ideal for those who value an active, outdoorsy lifestyle. Living in a community that aligns with your interests enhances the overall living experience, offering relaxation and activity just steps from your door.

6. Lot Grading Needs 

Some lots require grading to create a stable foundation, which can add to both your costs and timeline. An uneven lot may need extensive work to prepare for construction, which impacts your overall budget.

You can find developed lots in the area you'd like to build your custom home in or find the right piece of land in a community. Arden on Lanier offers cleared and graded lots, saving you time and reducing the complexity of your build.

Choosing a lot that’s already been graded means fewer initial obstacles, making your custom home project smoother from the start.

7. Access to Utilities

Utility access is essential when selecting a lot. Confirm that essential utilities like water, gas, electricity, and internet are readily available or can be connected.

Adding utilities to undeveloped land can significantly raise costs, so it’s important to ensure they’re accessible. A custom home builder can help you assess the feasibility of connecting utilities to your chosen lot, making sure your new home is as comfortable and connected.

8. Access Road & Easements

Make sure the lot has a reliable access road, and check for any easements that may limit how you use the property. Easements can grant others the right to use parts of your property, potentially impacting privacy or access. An established access road will simplify construction logistics and provide a clear route for you and your visitors once your home is complete.

YOu Have Questions, We Have Answers!

Here are a few of the most commonly asked questions from future homeowners like you. But remember, you can always get in touch with us at Elevation Building Company when you have follow-up questions.

How Much Does a Piece of Land Cost in North Metro Atlanta?

The land cost for custom homes in North Metro Atlanta varies depending on location, lot size, and amenities within the community. In sought-after areas, land can range from $80,000 to over $500,000. Larger lots or those within luxury developments like Governors Towne Club or Maison at Hollyberry typically fall on the higher end of the spectrum. These communities offer added benefits like amenities and convenient access to nearby city centers.

For a detailed overview, check out our guide on land cost for custom homes in North Metro Atlanta.

Is It Better to Build Your Home in a New Home Community or On Your Own Lot?

Choosing between building in a new home community or on a private lot comes down to your preferences and priorities.

For example, building in new home communities offers amenities, community feel, and pre-cleared lots with utilities, simplifying the build process. Private lots give you complete freedom over your space, which is ideal if you prefer privacy and customization without community guidelines.

Each option offers unique benefits, so the decision should reflect your vision for daily life and long-term goals.

Is the Land Included in the Cost of a Custom Home?

In new home communities, the land cost is usually separate from the home construction price. Buying land in Roswell, GA, or similar areas involves an initial investment, followed by the cost of building.

When purchasing in established communities, the price of the lot may include amenities, like access to clubhouses, pools, or golf courses, that add to the value. Some custom home builders offer land-home packages that can help simplify the process. Speak with your Atlanta custom home builder to fully understand what’s included in your total investment.

How to Find the Best Custom Home Builders in North Atlanta

Finding the best Atlanta custom home builders is a big part of bringing your vision to life. Here are some tips to help you choose the right team for your project.

Read Tons of Reviews

Reviews give insight into a builder’s reliability, quality of work, and how they handle challenges. Reading multiple reviews helps you understand the builder’s reputation, as well as any patterns in customer feedback.

Look for consistency in praise, particularly in areas like communication and quality. A highly reviewed builder is more likely to deliver a positive experience and meet your expectations. Pay attention to any recurring issues or red flags in reviews.

View Portfolios

A builder’s portfolio showcases the style, quality, and range of their work. Reviewing their completed projects lets you see if their designs align with your aesthetic preferences. Portfolios also highlight the builder’s ability to work on homes of various scales and levels of complexity.

If you’re interested in luxury home developments or unique architectural features, look for those in their portfolio. A strong portfolio reflects a builder’s experience and their capacity to deliver on your vision.

Schedule Consultations

A consultation is your chance to get a feel for the builder’s approach, communication style, and professionalism.

During your meeting, ask about their process, experience with similar projects, and timeline estimates. Look for a builder who listens to your goals, provides helpful insights, and communicates clearly. Gauge how well they address your questions and any concerns you have.

This initial interaction is a strong indicator of the working relationship you’ll have throughout the build.

We're Here to Guide You Every Step of the Way!

Choosing the right lot for your custom home is the first step in creating a space that feels truly yours. From location and lot size to utilities and zoning, each detail plays a part in the home-building journey.

At Elevation Building Company, we specialize in crafting custom homes that are perfectly suited to your lifestyle and vision. Ready to bring your dream home to life? Contact us today to start your custom home journey in North Atlanta.