How to Choose the Perfect Custom Home Location
Key Factors to Consider When Building Your Dream Home
When it comes to building a custom home, one of the most important—and personal—decisions you’ll make is where to build it. The location you choose will shape not just your home’s design and lifestyle, but also its long-term value and everyday functionality.
At Terry Johal Developments, we know that location is more than a pin on the map. It’s the foundation for everything that follows. Whether you’re dreaming of a coastal retreat, a forested escape, or an elegant home near the heart of Victoria, here are the top factors to consider when selecting the perfect site for your custom home.
1. Lifestyle Fit
Start by asking how your chosen location will support the way you live. Do you want to be close to downtown amenities, or are you seeking privacy and nature? Do you envision hosting family gatherings or simply enjoying quiet mornings with a view?
Consider:
-
Proximity to schools, work, or shops
-
Access to outdoor recreation (golf courses, hiking trails, beaches)
-
Neighborhood character and pace of life
-
Future growth or development plans in the area
2. Lot Size and Orientation
The size, shape, and positioning of your lot will significantly influence the layout and design of your home. A sloped lot may offer incredible views but require more complex engineering. A larger lot may allow for expanded outdoor living spaces, pools, or garden areas.
Tips:
-
Consider sun exposure and natural light—south-facing lots often offer the best daylight.
-
Think about privacy—where will your neighbors be in relation to your home?
-
Look at wind direction, drainage, and topography.
3. Natural Surroundings and Views
A beautiful natural setting can greatly enhance your home’s appeal, both visually and experientially. Whether it’s ocean views, forested backdrops, or mountain silhouettes, your surroundings should complement your lifestyle and design goals.
Design Tip: A great view can inspire window placement, outdoor living areas, and even interior finishes that echo the natural landscape.
4. Zoning and Building Regulations
Before finalizing your lot, research local zoning rules, setback requirements, and environmental restrictions. Some areas may limit what can be built or require special permits due to slope, water proximity, or protected vegetation.
Pro Tip: Work with an experienced builder who understands local regulations and can advise you on what’s possible within your preferred area.
5. Utilities and Infrastructure
Access to power, water, sewage, and internet is essential—and not all lots are created equal. Remote or undeveloped areas may require additional investment to bring in services.
Ask About:
-
Sewer vs. septic
-
Water supply (city vs. well)
-
Cell signal and broadband availability
-
Road access and maintenance
6. Long-Term Value
A dream home should also be a smart investment. Look at the surrounding area’s property trends, resale values, and desirability. Even if you plan to stay for decades, building in a strong location helps protect your investment over time.
Extra Insight: Location is often the biggest contributor to home value—more than finishes or square footage.
7. Your Vision, Realized
Ultimately, the right location is the one that allows you to bring your vision to life. At Terry Johal Developments, we help clients weigh their options carefully, taking into account site-specific opportunities and design goals to ensure the home and land are perfectly aligned.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect location for your custom home is the first—and arguably most important—step in the design-build process. It sets the tone for everything that follows and should reflect not just where you want to live, but how you want to live.
Whether you already have land or need help finding the right property, our team at Terry Johal Developments is here to guide you. Together, we’ll build something exceptional—exactly where it’s meant to be.