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Pros and Cons of Buying a Lot Before Working With a Builder

Should You Buy Land Before Choosing a Home Builder?
Pros and Cons Explained

Are you thinking about purchasing a lot before hiring a custom home builder?

This decision can significantly impact your entire home-building process, from budget and design to timelines and the overall experience.

In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of buying land before selecting a builder, offer tips on choosing the perfect location, and help you decide what’s right for your satisfying home-building journey.

Why Some Buyers Purchase
Land First and Build Later

Many homeowners choose to purchase a lot before starting the construction process. This offers flexibility and control—it allows you to secure the correct location before prices increase or inventory becomes scarce.

Let’s break down the benefits and risks of this approach.

Pros of Buying a Lot Before
Choosing a Builder

  1. Freedom to Choose the Ideal Location
    When you purchase the lot first, you can prioritize what matters most—whether privacy, proximity to schools, scenic views, or room to grow.
  2. Maximum Design Flexibility
    Owning the land allows you to work with any builder or architect. You’re not locked into a pre-designed plan and can create a fully custom home that fits your lifestyle.
  3. More Time to Plan and Prepare
    Buying land now allows you to plan your build on your schedule. You can take time to design, budget, and find the right professionals without pressure.
  4. Financing Advantages
    Some buyers enhance their loan eligibility by owning land outright, which makes it easier to secure favorable terms for construction loans and control overall building expenses.
  5. Greater Negotiation Power
    When you’re not limited to a builder’s land inventory, you may be able to find better land deals, especially if you’re willing to do the research or work with an experienced real estate agent.
  6. Freedom to Choose the Right Builder
    Owning your land means you can take your time selecting the right custom home builder—one who aligns with your vision and values. For example, Deskins, Inc. specializes in custom homes in Roanoke, VA, and can guide you from concept to completion with expert care and attention.

Cons of Buying a Lot Before
Hiring a Builder

  1. Higher Upfront Costs You’ll likely need to finance the land separately, requiring a larger down payment and possibly higher interest rates for two loans.
  2. More Responsibility and Risk Your responsibility will include managing everything from zoning checks to construction timelines. Without a builder’s early involvement, surprises are more likely to occur.
  3. Lack of Expert Evaluation Lots may look great, but they could have buildability issues. Before purchase, a builder typically helps vet the land for grading, soil quality, and access to utilities.
  4. Increased Building Costs A significant portion of what is not selected with builder input may require additional site preparation or specialized construction, potentially inflating your original budget.
  5. No Access to Builder Incentives Many builders offer discounted pricing, upgrades, or faster timelines when you use their land. Buying independently could mean missing out on those perks.
  6. Less Flexibility If Plans Change Once you purchase the land, you’re committed. Even if your plans, preferences, or finances shift, you’re still tied to that lot.

Benefits of Hiring a Builder
Before Buying Land

  1. Expert Lot Evaluation Builders can help assess potential lots for grading, zoning, and cost feasibility, reducing risk before a lot purchase.
  2. Simplified Budgeting You’ll have a clearer picture of total building expenses, which will help you avoid surprises and keep your dream home within budget.
  3. Time and Cost Savings Experienced builders often have relationships with developers or access to off-market lots, saving you money and time during your search.
  4. End-to-End Support From permitting to project management, having a builder from the outset can lead to a more efficient and satisfying home-building journey.

What to Consider When Buying a Lot

Whether purchasing a lot independently or with the help of a builder, continually evaluate these factors carefully:
  1. Zoning & Permits
    Make sure the lot is legally buildable and aligns with your home plans.
  2. Topography
    Hills, slopes, or unusual terrain may increase construction costs.
  3. Soil Quality
    Poor soil can require additional excavation or stabilization.
  4. Utilities
    Check for access to water, electricity, sewage, and internet.
  5. Lot Size & Layout
    Ensure it fits your desired home size, outdoor space, and privacy needs.
  6. Accessibility
    Easy road access and proximity to essential services can affect livability and resale value.

Build Smart From the Start

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best path depends on your budget, timing, design goals, and comfort with managing the process.

Whether you’re buying land now to build later or working with a builder from the start, the key to success is planning early and collaborating with professionals who can guide you through each phase of the journey.

Ready to Start Your Custom
Home Journey?

Let’s talk about your vision and goals. Whether still exploring land or looking for the right builder, we’re here to help make your dream home a reality, from the ground up.


Deskins, Inc. brings decades of expertise in custom home building. From land selection to design to final walkthrough, we’re with you every step of the way.

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James Deskins

In 2019, James and Sara Deskins embarked on a journey to create a construction company that not only serves their community but also upholds their values. With James’ hands-on expertise in building and Sara’s unwavering support behind the scenes, Deskins Inc. was born out of a shared vision. They currently live in Botetourt County with their 3 children, Noah, Rylan, and Kate, who keep them busy with various extra-curricular activities. Together the Deskins are committed to excellence and integrity and are guided by their faith, which has been the cornerstone of their business.

Darren Beckner

Darren Beckner, the Vice President of Construction, is leader of all superintendents and responsible for overseeing all aspects of a construction project. He is also involved in planning and managing the project from its earliest stages, including developing a budget and identifying potential contractors, to the final stages of the final walkthrough and budget reconciliation. Mr. Beckner has been with Deskins Incorporated since 2020 and comes with almost 15 years of construction field experience.  Because of his commitment to excellence, in April 2024, James brought on Darren as partner, and they are working together to build an organization that honors God. Darren is married to Lauren. He has four daughters: Savannah, Brooklyn, Harper and Millie.

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