Here are the 5 basic rules you need to know before buying a plot 🏡📏
Buying a plot is the first step toward the house of your dreams. But be careful! Not every piece of land is suitable for building, and there are urban planning rules you need to understand to avoid problems (and unnecessary expenses). Here’s a summary of the 5 basic rules you need to be clear on before buying:
🔹 1. Land use:
Not all plots are buildable. Some are classified as rural land, others as urban or developable land. Additionally, each one has a specific use: residential, commercial, industrial… Make sure the plot is classified as urban land for residential use if your goal is to build a house.
🔹 2. Buildability:
This technical term indicates how many square meters you’re allowed to build. For example, if a 1,000 m² plot has a buildability of 0.3, you can only build up to 300 m². This directly affects the size of the house, so don’t overlook it.
🔹 3. Maximum occupancy:
You can’t cover the entire land with the house. The maximum occupancy sets the percentage you’re allowed to build on. For example, 40% on a 1,000 m² plot means only 400 m² can be built area; the rest must remain open (ideal for a garden, pool, etc.).
🔹 4. Maximum height:
The regulations also limit the height of the building. Were you thinking of three floors? You might not be able to. Check whether building one or two stories is the maximum allowed in that area.
🔹 5. Setbacks:
These are the minimum distances you must leave between your building and the edges of the plot. No building right next to the street or your neighbor’s house. This varies by municipality.
🎯If you want to avoid costly mistakes and build safely, make sure you’re well informed before buying… or better yet, get advice from a professional.
