Using General Contractor to walk property before purchase?

[Emanuel Eyssallenne]

Hello,

What would you do if you were considering purchasing an acre of land in Browns Summit, North Carolina to have a new construction Duplex built? You have never been to the area, but have done some research and connected with a couple agents. The GC you are speaking with gave their website and phone number at the Triad REIA and that is how you found them. The GC asked for some info about the land and how close the telephone pole is located to the property.

The listing agent shared that there are no deed restrictions recorded on the register of deeds and no Septic records on the GIS. The listing agent said a duplex is permitted and the seller had a perc test at some point but does not have the records.  The suggestion was made for you to apply for a perc test with the county ($125.00). She did not have any information regarding the telephone pole.

Would you consider paying the GC to walk the property even though you have not made any offers on the property?  

How would you go about this?

Thank you 

[Sue Hough]

@Emanuel Eyssallenne hello and good morning!  I understand you are new (from your tagline) to real estate.  I would like to point out some construction "facts" which may help you moving forward;

1. You may need to partner with a GC to build your duplex as most lenders will not consider you for the project due to lack of new construction experience.

2.  There are a multitude of variables which play into the development process well before construction even begins.  Here are the key items you need to address before the land is purchased;

• You will need PERC testing to determine if the land/soil can support septic and absorb water.
  
• You will, most likely, need an environmental survey.  Which tests the soil for toxicity and to determine the land is free from toxins, old oil tanks and anything which may be harmful in the land.
• You will also need soil borings to determine if the land can support a structure
• Check with the Fire department to determine if they require any access roads and the weight it needs to support
• Utility and water access and installation
• You may need a plat of survey and topographical survey - this is likely

Consulting with the local building department to determine what items are required is the best approach.

Good luck!!