How to Choose a Lot for Your New Custom Home

Choosing the right lot for your new construction home is one of the most exciting—and most important—steps in building a new home.

The lot you select doesn’t just determine the view from your front porch or your back deck; it influences your home’s layout, budget, and even your everyday lifestyle. If you’re wondering how to choose a lot for your new home, here are a few key things to keep in mind before you break ground.

1. Understand the Differences Between Walkout, Flat, and Garden Lots

Each type of lot offers something different for your design and your lifestyle.

Walkout lots are ideal if you value natural light and desire easy access to outdoor living space from your lower level. They’re great for sloped properties and for homeowners who love patios or backyard entertaining.

Flat lots provide flexibility and affordability, making them perfect for ranch-style or single-level homes. They’re easier to build on, which can help keep your project on budget.

Garden lots (sometimes called daylight lots) offer a middle ground, with partial exposure on one side of the lower level—great for maximizing light while maintaining a private backyard.

Not sure which option fits your vision? Your builder can help you evaluate the site, slope, and drainage to find the lot that complements your preferred home plan.

2. Choose a Neighborhood That Fits Your Lifestyle

The right lot is about a whole lot more than simply the land—it’s about the community around it.

Consider how close you want to be to schools, parks, and everyday amenities. Take time to drive through potential neighborhoods at different times of day to get a feel for the area’s energy, traffic, and amenities. A great lot in the wrong location can limit your enjoyment for years to come.

P.S. If you’re dreaming of small-town charm with easy access to Sioux Falls, communities like Aspen Harbor or Twin Rivers Crossing in Brandon, SD offer the best of both worlds!

3. Evaluate Each Lot’s Practical Details

Once you’ve narrowed down your lot search based on the lot type and the neighborhood, it’s wise to pay attention to practical considerations that can impact both your build and your budget. Factors like drainage, sun exposure, soil quality, and setbacks all play a part in how your home can be positioned on the lot.

A professional builder—like Oakland Homes, a trusted custom home builder in Sioux Falls, SD—will review these details during your planning process to ensure your design works seamlessly with the land, not against it.

4. Work With a Home Builder Who Knows the Area

The right builder will do more than just construct your home—they’ll help you find the best lot for your needs. With deep local roots and more than 35 years of combined experience, Oakland Homes understands the Sioux Falls and Brandon areas inside and out.

As a premier custom home builder in southeastern South Dakota, we take pride in guiding clients through the entire process—from selecting the right neighborhood to designing a home that fits the lot perfectly. We’d love to assist you, too!

Ready to Find Your Perfect New Construction Home Lot?

Your dream home starts with the right piece of land. Explore available lots in our Aspen Harbor and Twin Rivers Crossing developments, or contact us today to start planning your new home build with Oakland Homes!