Selecting a Building Lot - Considerations:

OK, you've decided on the area where you want to live. Now comes the most important part: picking the exact place that you're going to live.

The very first thing to do is check out your immediate neighbors. You might even want to stop in and introduce yourself. Do they strike you as people you want to know? Does the guy right next door keep his four Saint Bernards outside, in a kennel, or practice on his trombone at 3:00 AM? These are things you really want to know before you make a final decision.

Also, to a great degree, the lot you select will influence the type of house, the internal layout, and how it will be positioned on the lot. Is the land level, or does it slope? How will it affect driveway access? Can the house be positioned for the best view? Where will the sun shine in the morning? (This will affect your landscaping and/or gardening placement, too.) How should you place the parking and entry?

Finally, think carefully: will you be happy here? Will this site accomodate your needs and your life style? You're going to be here for quite a while, and minor annoyances can quickly become major problems.

• This check list covers some of the more important items you might want to consider. But only you know what else is important to you.

After you've found the right home plan, it will be time to find a contractor as well as financing to help you build your home.