Choosing the Perfect Lot to Build Your Cabin Home

If you know you want to build the cabin of your dreams, then you likely already have some idea of what style and aesthetic you’re after, but just as important as your cabin’s design is the lot you choose to build it on. Some designs lend themselves better to certain lots than others, and some settings call for your cabin to face a particular direction to maximize your views, natural light, and potential energy savings. Additionally, you want to make sure that the lot you choose offers on-site or nearby access to essentials, like water and groceries, as well as fun activities.

To ensure you invest in a lot that can make all of your cozy cabin dreams come true, consider the following factors when researching potential sites. 

Setting Priorities

Location is of obvious importance when considering potential lots, but finding the right one depends on a lot more than the town or city you choose. You also want to be sure that the setting you choose is in line with your personal priorities with respect to factors like beautiful views, nearby fishing or hiking opportunities, and/or the potential to garden and grow crops. 

Proximity to Food and Other Necessities

Another important location consideration is your cabin’s proximity to grocery stores and dining establishments. The importance of this factor is entirely based on your personal preferences. Some people like to build their cabins in as remote of a location as possible, bringing all of the food, supplies, and other resources they need with them, while others prefer the convenience of being able to take a short drive to get what they need at any time. 

Access to Resources

Speaking of remote living, if you plan to build a cabin off the grid, then you want to make sure you have a way to access basic resources, like a water supply. Unless you’re incredibly well-versed in off-the-grid living, you may find that it’s a better option to invest in a lot with access to essentials like sewage systems, utility lines, and a public water source.  

Laws, Permits, and Regulations

Once you’ve chosen a location that’s in line with your needs and priorities, you should research whether the cabin you plan to build adheres to local laws and regulations. Potential obstacles may include zoning laws, code limitations, or development restrictions. You can consult with the city or town’s government office to learn about these regulations or reach out to a local real estate agent for assistance. 

Cabin Direction

After deciding on a location and ensuring your cabin adheres to relevant laws and regulations, it’s time to choose the direction that your cabin will face. As mentioned, this direction can impact all kinds of factors, like your views and monthly energy bills. You should also take into consideration any topographical components that may limit the direction your cabin can face, such as mountainous or otherwise rocky terrain.