"Might be worth scouting around places with subtle elevation changes rather than flat parcels... could save you some headaches later."
Good point about gentle slopes—natural drainage is definitely a plus. Just keep in mind that even mild slopes can sometimes mean extra costs for access roads or utility hookups, depending on the layout. I've found that parcels near existing infrastructure, even if slightly pricier upfront, often balance out by reducing hidden development expenses down the line. Something to consider when weighing affordability vs. long-term costs.
Yeah, gentle slopes can help with drainage, but I've seen folks underestimate how quickly those extra driveway or foundation costs pile up. Sometimes flat parcels near existing utilities end up cheaper overall... just gotta crunch the numbers carefully before jumping in.
"Yeah, gentle slopes can help with drainage, but I've seen folks underestimate how quickly those extra driveway or foundation costs pile up."
Totally relate to this—I just went through the exact same thing. When we first started looking for land, my partner and I fell for this beautiful hillside plot. The views were amazing, and we figured the slope would help with drainage issues. But once we got estimates for grading, retaining walls, and especially the driveway...ouch. Costs shot way past our initial budget.
We ended up finding a flat parcel closer to town that already had utilities nearby. Honestly, it wasn't as scenic at first glance, but after crunching numbers (and realizing how much we'd save on earth-moving alone) it was a no-brainer. Plus, landscaping and trees can always boost curb appeal later on.
Definitely agree—run ALL the numbers before deciding. Sometimes the less exciting-looking plots turn out to be hidden gems in terms of overall affordability and convenience.
Flat parcels definitely save headaches (and cash) upfront, but don't totally rule out gentle slopes. If you find one with existing road access and utilities nearby, the extra drainage benefits can be worth it without breaking the bank. Just gotta crunch those numbers carefully...
Gentle slopes can indeed offer some drainage perks, but from personal experience, I'd advise caution. A few years back, I worked on a project where the slope seemed manageable at first glance—utilities nearby, decent road access—but the excavation and foundation prep ended up costing significantly more than anticipated. Not saying slopes are always trouble, just that the hidden costs can sneak up on you if you're not careful. Definitely worth double-checking soil stability and getting a thorough site assessment before committing.
