Lot size & layout.

Your lot size and layout are essential details to consider when building a new house. Don't just think about your home and yard today, but assess your plans in the future. What type of patio and outdoor entertainment space will you want? Will you want a screened porch? A raised patio? A deck? What about play space?

If you have young children, a small yard and garden may seem like plenty for now, but maybe your family will grow into a swing set, a basketball standard, a hot tub, or even a pool. Consider your scalability in the future and plan with plenty of room in mind—not only for your dream home but for your dream yard and activities.

Have a green thumb? It's even more reason to plan your lot size and layout carefully. While significant landscaping may not be in your plans for the year ahead, you'll undoubtedly want to spend time on landscape design later, especially if you want a space to grow and garden. Trees get large quickly, bushes and hedges block windows, and landscape maintenance can get daunting. Keep your plans and hobbies in mind so that you get the perfect lot to fit it all in.

Make sure to check with the local authority having jurisdiction over the lot you are looking at. Check for easements and setbacks that could effect your project. One good rule to operate by is the 3 to 1 rule. Simple put your lot square footage should be 3 times the the square footage of the footprint of your new house.