Choosing the right block is about more than size and price. Frontage, orientation, site conditions, planning requirements and nearby amenities can all shape the home you build and how well it suits your lifestyle.
If you are working out how to choose a block of land in WA, start with the home you want to build, then compare which block best supports those plans.
Start with the home you want to build
Before comparing blocks, have a rough idea of what you want from the home itself.
How many bedrooms do you need? Is a double garage important? Would you prefer more living space or a larger backyard?
These choices can quickly narrow down the block sizes and configurations that will work for you.
Look at frontage, shape and orientation
A block’s frontage is the width of the property where it meets the street. It can influence the home designs that will fit, including garage width and room layout.
Rectangular blocks can be straightforward to design around, while irregular or tapered lots may call for a more custom approach.
Orientation matters too. The Australian Government’s YourHome guidance notes that good orientation can improve thermal comfort and reduce heating and cooling needs. Ask your builder whether your preferred design can be adapted to make better use of the site.
Understand site conditions and potential costs
Every block is different, so understanding its site conditions can help you plan your build with confidence.
Slope, soil classification, drainage, rock and vegetation can influence site works and foundation design. In a new estate, some of this information may already be available.
Our Cedar Woods sales team can help you understand the information available for the lot, while your builder can explain what it may mean for construction requirements and budget.
Depending on their location, some lots may also have specific building requirements, such as a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) or noise-mitigation measures near specified major road or rail corridors.
Check planning controls
Western Australia’s Residential Design Codes, commonly known as the R-Codes, establish planning and design requirements alongside local planning requirements.
New communities may also have project-specific design guidelines that help support an attractive, cohesive community for everyone to enjoy.
Consider title timing
A titled lot has an individual Certificate of Title, meaning the lot has been created and registered with the relevant government authorities and can proceed to settlement. Untitled land can be sold before the subdivision is completed and the individual title is registered, so settlement generally occurs later. That extra lead time can suit buyers who would like more time to plan or save.
Ask our Cedar Woods sales team about expected title timing, then check with your lender and builder that it suits your plans.
Look beyond the block itself
Consider the block’s position within the wider community, including access to parks, schools, shops, public transport and major roads.
It is also worth distinguishing between what is already delivered, what is committed and what is proposed for the future.
Compare the complete picture
The right block is not necessarily the biggest, widest or cheapest. It is the one that best balances your home design, budget, site conditions, planning requirements, timing and preferred location.
Before committing, ask: Will your preferred home fit? What site works or additional construction requirements may apply? When will the lot be titled? And what amenities are nearby?
If you are considering what a good block of land in WA looks like for you, explore land for sale in Perth and WA within a Cedar Woods community or register your interest to speak with a Cedar Woods project sales team about the options currently available.
