Building

Not all parcels are buildable.

Some are zoned so there's a restriction on what can be built on the land. In some cases, residential buildings aren't allowed and a building permit will not be issued.

Take careful note of the grade of the land. If the grade is too steep, you won't be able to build. If it's viable, a pad can be cut out of the slope; however, the steeper it is, the more costly it becomes.

Bentonite Clay is common in the foothills. Under wet conditions, it can expand, buckling concrete foundations and twisting I-beams in the process.


Another thing to remember when building on a slope: water flows downhill.
It's quite possible to be flooded or have a mudslide sweep into your home.