Land and custom · 2026 edition
Buying Land and Building Custom in North Texas
Building a custom home starts with the right piece of land. A great lot can save you thousands, and the wrong one can cost you just as much. Here's how to do it right in North Texas.
By Tee Adewunmi, REALTOR®3 min read · Updated September 202601Lot in a community vs raw land
| Lot in a community | Raw land or acreage | |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | Usually in place | May need well, septic or extensions |
| Rules | HOA and builder guidelines | Deed restrictions, sometimes few |
| Builder | Often an approved builder list | Your choice |
| Speed | Faster to start | More due diligence |
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02Land due diligence checklist
- Survey and boundaries
- Utilities: water, electric, sewer or septic (OSSF), internet
- Floodplain and drainage
- Easements and access
- Deed restrictions and HOA rules
- Soil conditions for your foundation
- Current tax status, including any agricultural valuation
- City or county building requirements
03Budget land and build separately
- Land price and closing costs
- Site work: clearing, pad, driveway, utilities
- Build price per square foot and allowances
- Design and engineering
- A contingency, often 5% to 10%
04Choosing your builder
- Tour homes they've finished and talk to past clients
- Understand what's included vs an allowance
- Review the contract, draw schedule and warranty
- Ask how they handle change orders and delays
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