Building your dream home starts long before the foundation is poured. One of the most important steps in the process is choosing the right lot for a custom home. In Bend and throughout Central Oregon, the land you select will influence not only the style and design of your home but also your comfort, lifestyle, and long-term investment. At Select Design & Build, we help clients navigate this critical decision so they can build with confidence and peace of mind.
Zoning and Permits: Know What You Can Build
The first step in selecting a lot is understanding local zoning laws and permit requirements. Zoning regulations determine what types of structures can be built, how tall they can be, and even how far your home must sit from the road. Before you buy, verify that your dream home vision aligns with the property’s zoning restrictions. Our team has experience working with zoning offices across Bend and Central Oregon, ensuring your project gets off to a smooth start without delays or costly surprises.
Soil Quality and Land Stability: The Foundation Matters
Soil conditions play a huge role in the cost and safety of your build. Poor soil quality or unstable ground can require expensive engineering solutions to make the lot suitable for building. When considering things to look for before buying land in Bend, a professional soil test should be at the top of the list. At Select Design & Build, we connect clients with trusted geotechnical experts who evaluate soil composition, drainage, and stability, giving you a clear picture of what to expect before construction begins.
Slope and Drainage: Planning for Long-Term Protection
A sloped lot in Bend can offer incredible views, but it also comes with unique building challenges. Drainage issues can lead to water pooling around your foundation, erosion, or even long-term structural problems. Our team specializes in designing homes that maximize the beauty of Central Oregon’s landscape while ensuring proper grading and water management. Whether you are drawn to hillside lots or flat parcels, understanding slope and drainage is key to protecting your investment.
Utilities Access: Essential for Everyday Living
When looking for the best lots for custom homes in Bend, utilities are a make-or-break factor. Some rural properties may not have immediate access to water, electricity, natural gas, or sewer connections. Bringing these utilities to your property can significantly increase costs and delay construction. Select Design & Build helps clients evaluate utility access during the home building site selection process so that nothing is overlooked. In some cases, we guide clients through options like private wells, septic systems, or renewable energy solutions that align with their lifestyle and budget.
Neighborhood and Lifestyle Fit: More Than Just Land
Choosing the right lot is not just about the physical property. Your future neighborhood plays a major role in how much you enjoy your home. Consider factors such as commute times, school districts, recreational access, and long-term community growth. Do you want the privacy of rural acreage or the convenience of a neighborhood close to Bend’s vibrant downtown? By discussing your lifestyle goals, we help match you with a property that enhances your daily life as much as your new home itself.
Resale Value: Thinking Ahead
Even if you plan to stay in your custom home for decades, resale value should always be part of the decision-making process. The location, neighborhood growth, and accessibility of your lot will influence how attractive your home is to future buyers. At Select Design & Build, we take a long-term view, advising clients on lot selection that not only works for today but also holds its value for the future.
Why Work with Select Design & Build?
From Bend to Redmond and across Central Oregon, our team has years of experience guiding homeowners through every stage of the building process. We know that choosing the right lot is one of the most important investments you will ever make, and we are here to simplify the process. Whether you are planning to build on your land in Bend, OR, or are still searching for the perfect site, Select Design & Build provides the local expertise you need to bring your vision to life.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Custom Home
Your dream home deserves the perfect location. At Select Design & Build, we combine local knowledge with hands-on expertise to help you select the right lot, design your custom home, and enjoy the building process from start to finish. Ready to get started? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your custom home in Central Oregon.
FAQ
What are the biggest factors to consider before buying land in Bend?
Key factors include zoning regulations, soil quality, slope and drainage, access to utilities, and neighborhood fit. Each of these can affect your budget, timeline, and long-term satisfaction with your custom home.
Can I build on my own land in Bend, OR?
Yes! If you already own land, Select Design & Build can help you evaluate site conditions and create a home design that maximizes the property’s potential. We also assist clients who are still searching for the best lot for their custom home.