Choosing the Perfect Lot: Flat, Walkout, or Daylight?

When venturing into the world of new construction, selecting the right lot for your dream home is as crucial as choosing the design itself. The type of lot not only influences your home's orientation and design but also its functionality and potential for future landscaping. Understanding the differences between flat, walkout, and daylight lots is essential in making an informed decision.

Flat Lots: Flat lots are the most versatile and are ideal for almost any type of home design. They offer a uniform level from front to back and side to side, making construction straightforward. This type of lot is perfect for those looking for easy accessibility and minimal landscaping or earthwork costs. However, the simplicity of a flat lot might lack the natural character that sloped lots provide.

Walkout Lots: Walkout lots are sloped, allowing for a basement level to have direct access to the backyard. This design is ideal for homes built on a hillside, providing additional living space that opens up to the garden or patio. When selecting a walkout lot, consider the lot's orientation to maximize natural light and scenic views from the walkout level.

Daylight Lots: Similar to walkout lots, daylight lots have a gentle slope that allows for windows and possibly one or two doors on the basement level, but unlike walkout lots, they may not provide direct ground-level access from the basement. Daylight lots offer the advantage of natural light and ventilation for the lower level of your home, making it feel less like a basement and more like a part of your living space.

Orientation Matters: Regardless of the lot type, the orientation of your home is determined by the highest point of your lot. Builders typically position the garage on the high side of the lot for practical reasons, such as drainage and accessibility. This orientation ensures that the home takes full advantage of the lot's natural topography.

When choosing your lot, consider the following:

• Sun Exposure: The direction your home faces can affect heating and cooling costs, as well as your enjoyment of outdoor spaces.
• Views: What will you see from your windows and yard? Privacy, natural beauty, and the orientation of the sun can make a significant difference in your living experience.
• Topography: The slope of your lot will influence your home’s design, especially if you’re considering a walkout or daylight basement.

Selecting the right lot requires a balance between the practicalities of construction and the vision of your dream home. Consider how the type of lot, its orientation, and the natural landscape align with your lifestyle and home design preferences. A thoughtful choice will not only enhance your home’s appeal but also its functionality and harmony with its surroundings.