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4 Typical Blocks of Land for Building Your Home

jyarrum • Jul 14, 2017

If you’re buying land to build a home on, you’ll need to choose a block that best suits you and your build’s needs. There are several different types of land blocks, and choosing the best block for your build can speed up the building process, and could even save you thousands of dollars.

Here are four types of land blocks, with their pros and cons explained, but if you want to know more about choosing the perfect block, download our complete guide to blocks of land , which will have everything you need to know!

Brownfield sites

Brownfield sites are blocks of land that have previously been developed, and that have been affected by the previous development. There may still be some structural build in place on the block, or there may be existing pipelines and cables underground.

Brownfield blocks can often provide a head start on the build, as there may be existing structures and easements that can be used for the new build. This can save a lot of time and money, as things like connecting properties to an electricity supply, water and sewage pipes, and telephone lines can cause huge delays and cost a lot of money. This can help bring the completion date forward. Another bonus of brownfield sites is that they’re often in areas that have already been built up, meaning there’s not likely to be any issues with access.

They also sometimes already have approval for developments, so that will rule out any delays that might arise when seeking planning permission.

But if brownfield sites have been derelict for a long period of time, you might find that they’re actually more problematic than greenfield sites. For example, if the existing infrastructure is too run down to make use of, it may cost more than you planned for to replace or upgrade it. This might involve having to replace underground pipes, or even foundation works.

Greenfield sites

Greenfield sites are the opposite of brownfield sites; they’re blocks that have never been built on before.

They’re often a popular choice because they’re a completely blank canvas, meaning you’ll have complete flexibility with structural designs. You’ll be able to go ahead with your plans, without having to work around old structures.

There also won’t be any complications with having to renovate old structures, or upgrade existing pipes, instead you can start completely from scratch. Having new fixtures and fittings will also usually mean that they’ll be easier to maintain.

But greenfield sites can make a more difficult build, and can cost more money. Starting from scratch means complete freedom with your designs, but it also means you won’t have anything to work from. This means additional costs for connecting water pipes, gas and electric supplies and telephone lines, and for building completely new foundations. You’ll also have to seek approval from the council.

Another point to consider before buying a greenfield block is that there may not be easy access to it, especially if it’s in a more rural area. You might have to factor building an access road into your expected costs.

Dual access blocks

Dual access blocks are a popular choice when buying land to build on, mainly because with dual access comes options.

They can be good blocks for investment properties, as they can be easily divided between two properties. So if you’re building with capital gain in mind, dual access blocks can be a good way to go.

The shape of dual access blocks also allows a lot more freedom with how you design your build. Perhaps the most desirable quality of dual access blocks though is that they provide the option for a garage. You can easily have a garage built around the back of the property, without affecting the appearance of the front of the property. So you can have the best of both worlds, plenty of parking space and a nice frontage.

The only downside to dual access blocks is that they can be more expensive than regular blocks. This is because of the huge amount of potential that comes with them.

Infill blocks

Infill blocks are blocks that lay between two already existing properties, so they’re a good way to get into an already built up and populated area. They’re often the best choice for those who have a dream house in a dream suburb in mind.

Thanks to being situated in already populated areas, they offer the opportunity to build from scratch, but in an area that already has plenty of community facilities, such as schools and shops. This means that, as a new build in a desirable area, they can also provide great opportunities for capital gain.

Infill blocks are also often cheaper than larger, more open blocks, such as dual access blocks.

The main thing to bear in mind if you choose an infill block though, is that it can be difficult to access the site during construction, with the surrounding properties acting as barriers. Whilst this is a problem that can be overcome, it might just mean that your home takes a little longer to build.

Designs may also be somewhat restricted, as often infill blocks can be limited in terms of size and shape.

Summary

Hopefully you now feel a little more in the know about block types, and which block may best suit your project. There are both advantages and disadvantages to all of the different block types, and deciding which type is for you will largely depend on your budget and your intended design.

If you want to learn more about choosing the perfect block type for your build, download our complete guide to blocks of land. This will include everything you could need to know before deciding on a block. From more block types, to soil type, and other important factors to consider before settling on a certain block, you’ll find plenty of information to help you choose the best block for you.

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