Continued...

· Building your dream home is an exciting process, are you ready to take the necessary time to make it become a reality? The design and building can take up to 1-2 years, depending upon home size, amenities and site prep.

· Are you familiar with city/county restrictions, such as zoning restrictions, or floodplain boundaries? Each of these can have an impact on the design of your home and how much it will cost.

· Do you think talking with a lender will help in the process of deciding if you can afford to build? A lender typically figures the land to be about 30% of the total value of a custom home. If you're paying cash for the property then there is no ratio. But if you will be financing, ask your lender about home equity loans. They are very popular because the payment is definitely deductible and the lending requirements are more flexible.

· As you walk property, do you feel more comfortable closer to the mountains or down in the valley? Some people like to look into the nooks and crannies while others like to be further away to see the expanse of the mountains. Your view will be the primary thing you think about in many cases. Take the time to visualize living there. Also visualize what will happen to your views if adjacent property is developed.

· How can I protect my view? That's a good one! If subdivision deed restrictions don't protect your view corridors, then your only option is to buy the lot! Design your home utilizing the natural open corridors of washes, roads, etc.

· Do you understand the physical characteristics of the property? All property corners should be staked and flagged with the seller guaranteeing their accuracy. Or request a boundary survey as a contingency in a purchase contract. Know the location of all utilities and utility easements; each utility company will provide you with that information.

· How do I know a Walgreens or a road expansion won't suddenly become my neighbor? Local jurisdictions have "area plans" that show future development - commercial and residential - in most areas and although they are not cast-in-stone they do represent our government's thoughts on the path of growth.

· Lastly, Morgantown land values are going up and up. The Cheat Lake area is booming and land is hard to find at that. If you're looking for less expensive land look into South Mon County. If things keep being developed like they have been recently the boundary lines of inexpensive land and expensive land will continue to move outward.