Imagine an open space where bright sunlight filters in from multiple directions throughout the day. It leaves a beautiful glow in every corner of your home. It’s not fantasy but rather the reality of a corner lot homeownership that awaits to elevate your living experience.
From experience as a Realtor, many potential home buyers love the thought of a corner lot. Some builders will even charge more for them in new developments. It is not uncommon for a builder to strategically place their model home in a subdivision on one of these lots for higher visibility.
Back in the 90s, when cookie-cutter McMansions became prevalent, builders had a more challenging time selling intersection lots.
Buyers did not appreciate the potential for more noise, less privacy, and additional street exposure.
The tides changed, and they are now more comparable to living on a cul-de-sac as far as popularity.
We unveil the not-so-seen advantages of owning one and enrich your vision with design ideas that exploit these benefits to construct your custom dream home.
Get ready to fall deeper into mutual love with these lots than ever. After all, who wouldn’t want more exposure, a more oversized yard, and maybe an added slice of privacy?
What is a Corner Lot?
A corner lot is a type of zoning lot situated at the intersection of two streets. It typically has two front and two side yards, with no rear yard requirements. Some factors to consider when owning include advantages such as additional yard space, views of two streets, and the potential for more street parking.
On the other hand, there may be disadvantages, such as increased road noise and the potential for people cutting across the property. It’s essential to evaluate these pros and cons when designing your corner lot property. These considerations include incorporating privacy fences in the backyard and picket fences in the front yard, along with considering snow removal responsibilities.
These guidelines will help you make informed decisions about living in and enhancing a corner lot property.
Assessing an Intersection Lot for Your Dream Home
When choosing the perfect location for your dream home, one option that stands out is a corner lot. These home sites offer unique opportunities and considerations that set it apart from other lots.
It’s essential to carefully assess various factors that may impact the design and functionality of your future home. There are pros and cons to these house sites.
Imagine yourself standing on a corner lot, envisioning where your dream home will be located. Take note of the lot’s size and shape. Is it suitable for the architectural style you have in mind? Consider the dimensions of the plot and how they align with your desired floor plan.
Do zoning regulations impose any limitations or restrictions? Familiarize yourself with local building codes and ordinances to ensure compliance.
Next, evaluate the orientation and exposure of the lot. Does it face south, allowing for ample sunlight throughout the day? Or is it blocked by neighboring buildings or trees, potentially casting shadows on your property? The orientation can affect natural lighting, energy efficiency, and even gardening possibilities.
Take these aspects into account as you imagine how your new home will fit within the lot’s surroundings.
Research Privacy and Noise
It’s also essential to consider privacy and noise levels when assessing location. Being situated at the intersection of two streets means increased exposure to pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Determine if street noise would be a concern for you and your family. Consider incorporating landscaping elements like privacy fences or hedges to mitigate potential issues.
If the neighborhood has an HOA, it will be critical to research if there are any restrictions on fencing. When restrictive covenants exist, there could be rules on materials and height.
The topography of the lot should not be overlooked either. Are there significant elevation changes or slope variations that may pose challenges during construction or affect drainage? These factors can impact not only the cost but also the overall feasibility of building on the corner lot.
Pro tip: from experience living at a lot on a corner, you may find headlights from cars coming through your windows. Be prepared to buy appropriate curtains, shades, and draperies to block unwanted light.
By carefully examining all these aspects, you’ll gather valuable insights into whether a corner lot suits your preferences and needs for your property. Remember, each corner lot is unique, so it’s crucial to conduct a thorough assessment before making any decisions.
Benefits of a Corner Lot
Selecting a corner lot for your dream home brings a range of advantages that can enhance both your living experience and property value. Understanding these benefits is crucial when considering this unique type of lot for your future residence.
One significant advantage of an intersection lot is the increased yard space it offers. With two frontages, you have more room to create outdoor areas that accommodate various activities, such as gardening, playing sports, or hosting gatherings. This additional space also provides an opportunity to showcase landscaping features, adding beauty and curb appeal to your home.
The dual frontage of a corner lot also means that you have more views and natural light entering your home. Multiple windows can be strategically placed to capture optimal sunlight throughout the day. Doing so will brighten your interiors and create a welcoming ambiance.
You may even have the luxury of enjoying scenic views from different angles, offering a greater sense of connection with the surrounding environment.
Another advantage is the potential for fewer neighbors abutting your property. Unlike interior lots, which often have neighboring houses on both sides, a lot on a corner typically has only two or three adjacent properties. This can result in increased privacy and less noise from shared walls or proximity to other houses.
From experience as a condo owner, it can make a difference having one less adjoining neighbor.
Potential For More Parking
Additionally, a corner lot may offer extra parking options due to its location at the intersection of two streets. This can be beneficial when hosting guests or having multiple vehicles in your household. It adds convenience and eliminates some challenges associated with limited street parking.
While there are numerous benefits to consider when choosing a corner lot, it’s essential to acknowledge that there may also be some considerations and potential challenges. Road noise can be a concern, especially if the plot is on a busy street intersection.
Furthermore, there may be increased responsibilities for snow removal during winter months due to the exposure on two sides of the property. However, these factors can often be mitigated through carefully planned design choices and thoughtful solutions.Click To TweetNow that we’ve highlighted the advantages and considerations of a corner lot, you can make an informed decision about whether this type of lot aligns with your vision for your next home.
Interesting Statistics on Corner House Lots
- A study published in the Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics found that, on average, the lots sell for roughly 5-20% more than interior lots. This is due to their additional yard space and fewer adjacent neighbors.
- However, research from the same study also noted that houses located on corner lots experience around 10% more traffic noise compared to those on interior lots.
- Furthermore, according to a survey by the National Association of Realtors, nearly 60% of homeowners living in corner lots were concerned about the increased responsibilities that come with it. This includes snow removal and maintaining larger yards.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Corner Lot
When searching for the perfect location to build your home, a corner lot can offer unique advantages. Before settling on an intersection lot, it’s essential to weigh the factors that come into play.
One of the primary benefits of these home sites is increased yard space. With two front yards, you can design beautiful landscaping and create an inviting curb appeal.
However, it’s essential to consider potential road noise. Being situated at the intersection of two streets means there may be higher levels of traffic passing by compared to interior lots. If peace and quiet are a significant priority for you, it may be worth assessing whether noise-reducing measures can be implemented in the design or landscaping.
Another factor to keep in mind is privacy. Corner lots tend to have more exposure since they face two streets. To address this, consider installing a privacy fence in the backyard or using hedge plants above the fence line for added seclusion. In the front yard, a welcoming picket fence could help deter people from cutting across your property.
You’ll Have Fewer Neighbors
Furthermore, being at an intersection means having fewer immediate neighbors with only two or three adjacent properties. This offers an opportunity to get to know your neighbors personally and foster community connections more easily.
For instance, having friendly conversations with your neighbors while planting flowers in your adjoining front yards or enjoying small talk during walks with your dog can build a strong sense of community and belonging.
Lastly, it’s worth considering any additional responsibilities that might arise from owning an intersecting lot. Assessing these other responsibilities before deciding can help ensure you are prepared for any extra workload that may be required.
Now that we have explored the factors to consider when choosing a lot let’s dive into the construction aspects of building on them.
Building on a Corner Lot: Construction Aspect
Building at an intersection comes with its unique considerations and regulations. The requirements may vary depending on local zoning regulations, so it’s crucial to consult with professionals familiar with the area’s building codes and restrictions.
One key aspect to consider is yard requirements. Unlike interior lots, corner lots typically have two front yards and two side yards instead of one front yard and two sides, as found in through or interior lots.
Understanding these variations is essential when planning the positioning and layout of your house.
Another feature specific to these lots is the absence of rear yard requirements. Since the lots do not have a backyard, you have more flexibility in designing your outdoor space. This can be advantageous when creating a more significant backyard or accommodating other features like patios, decks, or outdoor entertainment areas.
Are There Any Local Regulations?
Additionally, it’s essential to know any special district regulations that may apply. Some neighborhoods or communities might have specific architectural guidelines. There could also be historical preservation regulations that could influence the design decisions for your dream home.
Familiarizing yourself with these requirements beforehand can save time and help ensure compliance.
For example, imagine you plan to build your home in a historic district where certain architectural styles are required. Researching and understanding these guidelines ahead of time will enable you to incorporate the necessary elements into your design while maintaining the charm and character of the community.
Lastly, it’s crucial to consider lot coverage and open space requirements. Depending on local zoning regulations, there may be limitations on how much area your home can occupy on the plot and how much green space must be maintained. Understanding these specifications will allow you to plan your home’s size and layout accordingly.
Having examined the factors to consider when choosing a plot on a corner and the construction aspects involved, let’s now explore the possible building restrictions one might encounter.
Possible Building Restrictions
It’s crucial to be aware of any potential building restrictions. There are Corner Lots, Through Lots, and Interior Lots, each with its own requirements and regulations.
Corner Lots are lots located at the intersection of two streets intersecting at an angle of no more than 135 degrees. They may have no rear yard requirements and typically have two front and two side yards. Through Lots connects two streets opposite each other and are either parallel or within 45 degrees of being parallel.
Through Lots has regulations for a Rear Yard Equivalent instead of traditional rear yards. Lastly, Interior Lots are any lots that are neither corner lots nor through lots, and they are the most common type of lot.
These lots have specific zoning regulations that can affect your design and construction plans. Some areas you may need to consider include yard requirements, plot coverage, open space, sliver law, and special district regulations.
For example, lots on corners often have more yard space than others, providing opportunities for creative landscaping ideas (which we’ll explore in the next section).
Before embarking on any building project, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the specific zoning regulations in your area. Consult with local authorities or engage an architect or designer well-versed in zoning laws to ensure compliance.Click To TweetMaking the Most of Corner Lots: Landscaping Ideas
Living on a lot corner offers unique advantages when landscaping your property. With two sides exposed to the street, you can showcase your creativity and enhance the curb appeal.
One popular approach when landscaping is to create a solid visual presence by utilizing eye-catching features. Consider incorporating elements like grand entranceways, focal points like fountains or sculptures, or well-designed pathways that guide visitors toward your front door. These features not only add aesthetic appeal but also help define your property’s identity within the neighborhood.
Additionally, planting trees strategically can provide both beauty and practicality. Trees can serve as natural screens for privacy. They help to buffer road noise and create an inviting atmosphere in your backyard. Trees also provide shade during hot summer months and can contribute to energy efficiency by reducing the need for excessive air conditioning.
Consider Fencing Upfront
Consider using a picket fence along the front yard to deter people from cutting across the corner of your property. It will also help maintain an open and welcoming appearance. If privacy is a concern in your backyard, installing a privacy fence can offer you seclusion and create a peaceful retreat space.
To add depth and dimension to your landscaping, explore using shrubs, flowers, and other vegetation. Incorporating different levels of height and color will bring vibrancy to your outdoor space year-round. Strategically placed flower beds can draw attention to specific areas. Hedges or strategic plantings can provide privacy along the borders.
Remember that every house lot has its unique characteristics and challenges. Consider sun exposure, wind patterns, and existing infrastructure before finalizing your landscaping plans. By carefully considering these elements and implementing thoughtful designs, you can make the most of your land and create a beautiful oasis that reflects your style.
For instance, imagine creating an inviting courtyard area with a fountain at the point where the two streets intersect. This would not only serve as a stunning focal point but also develop a sense of tranquility as you relax outdoors.
Now that we’ve explored some landscaping ideas, let’s shift our focus to an essential aspect of homeownership: price considerations related explicitly to corner lot properties.
Price Considerations for Corner Lots
When purchasing a home site, there are several price considerations that you should keep in mind. First, these lots tend to be larger than regular lots, which can result in a higher purchase price.
The additional land provides more flexibility for designing and building your home, making it an attractive option for many buyers. However, this larger size and increased flexibility may cost more than standard lots.
For instance, let’s say you are comparing two similar-sized lots in a desirable neighborhood – one is a regular interior lot while the other is a corner lot. It’s entirely possible that the plot on the corner could be priced higher due to its larger size and the potential advantages it offers in terms of privacy or curb appeal.
Additionally, the lot’s location within a neighborhood can also impact its price. Intersecting lots situated on busy streets may have more noise or traffic concerns, which could potentially lower their value compared to house sites located on quieter streets.
Similarly, some lots may offer better views or more desirable orientations, making them more expensive than others in the same area.
Another critical factor to consider is the availability of utilities and services. Depending on the location and layout of the land, there may be additional costs associated with extending utilities and infrastructure to accommodate its unique position.
There may also be easements that interfere with the usage of your land. Be sure to research this.
These costs vary depending on the distance from existing utility connections or municipal regulations.
Long-Term Investment Potential
It’s worth noting that these lots may come with higher upfront costs. However, they also have potential long-term advantages that could outweigh the initial investment.
They offer the opportunity for unique architectural design elements such as wrap-around porches or spacious yards. The added space can also provide more options for landscaping, creating an inviting and picturesque environment for your home.
On the flip side, some buyers may have concerns about security and safety. Due to their location at the intersection of two streets, these lots may have more exposure to potential risks. They can also have higher maintenance requirements. It’s essential to assess these factors and determine whether they align with your lifestyle preferences and priorities.
Remember that market trends and buyer preferences can also influence the resale value. While it generally holds its value well, fluctuations in the housing market could impact future selling opportunities.
Ultimately, when considering the price of a corner plot for your dream home, it is crucial to carefully evaluate factors such as size, location, views, utilities, and long-term benefits.
Assessing these aspects in conjunction with your specific needs and desires will help you make an informed decision about whether the price is justified.
Final Thoughts
Whether buying a tract house or a spec home, weigh the pros and cons before choosing the type of home site. Due diligence for the neighborhood you’re considering will be crucial to your long-term happiness.
A qualified local buyer’s agent can help pick the lot that best suits your needs, along with being a good choice when it comes time to sell.
About the Author: The above Real Estate information on the pros and cons of corner lots was provided by Bill Gassett, a Nationally recognized leader in his field. Bill has expertise in mortgages, financing, moving, home improvement, and general real estate.
Learn more about Bill Gassett and the publications he has been featured in. Bill can be reached via email at billgassett@remaxexec.com or by phone at 508-625-0191. Bill has helped people move in and out of Metrowest towns for the last 37+ years.
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