Building a Home? Here’s What I Want Families to Know Before They Choose a Lot

Before we talk about floor plans, finishes, or Pinterest boards — we need to talk about choosing a lot to build a home.

Because the lot will shape everything that comes after it.

I’ve watched families fall in love with a house design… and then struggle with a lot that never really fit the life they wanted to live in it.

And I don’t want that for you.

Not All Lots Live the Same

Two lots can look similar on paper and feel completely different in real life.

Things that matter more than people expect:

• Sun direction

• Drainage

• Backyard usability

• Neighbor spacing

• Traffic flow

• Long-term resale appeal

These aren’t design details — they’re lifestyle decisions.

Think About How You’ll Actually Live There

I always ask families:

Where will kids play?
Where will you sit in the evening?
Where will guests park?
Where will dogs run?
Where will holidays happen?

A lot isn’t just land. It’s the stage your life will play out on.

Builders See Lots Differently

Coming from a building family, I can’t help but look at lots through a builder’s eyes.

I see:

• How a home will sit

• How drainage will work

• How driveways and garages will function

• How rooflines and elevations will look from the street

That perspective helps families avoid expensive regrets later.

New Construction Still Needs Strategy

Just because a home is new doesn’t mean every choice is equal.

Some lots carry long-term value better than others.
Some layouts age better.
Some positions in a neighborhood simply perform better when it’s time to sell.

Good planning protects your future options.

The Goal Is Confidence, Not Speed

Building should feel exciting — not rushed.

If you feel pressured to choose quickly, slow down.

A good decision today makes everything easier tomorrow.

If You’re Thinking About Building

Whether you’re ready now or just gathering information, I’m always happy to walk lots with you, talk through neighborhoods, and help you see what matters before anything is signed.

No pressure.
Just smart planning.

And if selling your current home is part of that plan, I also shared what I believe matters most when selling in today’s market.

—
Lorie Coogle

From the Ground Up.