What are standard conditions that a Purchaser of a vacant residential lot may want in a contract where they intend to build a home?

This article will explore the conditions that a Purchaser may want to consider when buying a vacant residential lot in British Columbia.

1. Due Diligence Period: One of the first conditions that should be included in the purchase contract is a broad due diligence period. This allows the Purchaser to conduct thorough investigations into the property before finalizing the purchase. The Purchaser may look into the implications of the Speculation and Vacancy Tax if they plan on leaving the lot vacant for a period of time prior to building. Another consideration is to assess whether the transaction will be subject to the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Further, the Purchaser may want to determine whether the property is subject to a Heritage Designation, or archaeological site. It may be prudent to conduct environmental and engineering assessments of the property prior to purchasing it. A Purchaser may want to consult with the City or Municipality to determine the size or siting of a future residence intended for the property. The Purchaser may want to consult with Geotechnical engineers on potential construction issues and soil testing. Lastly, a Purchaser may want to inquire about available utility services, such as sewer, water, hydro and gas.
2. Zoning and Land Use: Verifying the zoning regulations and land use designation is necessary to ensure you can build your dream home. The Purchaser must ensure that the lot is zoned appropriately for residential use and that it aligns with their building plans. Additionally, checking for any building restrictions or design guidelines imposed by local authorities or homeowner’s association helps protect the Purchaser’s interests.
3. Buyer Financing: Including a financing clause in the contract allows the Purchaser to withdraw if they are unable to obtain satisfactory mortgage financing within a specified timeframe. This condition is essential as it ensures that the Purchaser is not obligated to proceed with the purchase of the home if their financing falls through.
4. Review of Title: This condition allows the Purchaser to perform a review of the land title to address the potential encumbrances on the land. These could include covenants, liens, easements, and statutory building schemes. A thorough review of the title is essential to ensure that the property meets the Purchaser’s needs.

It is critical to make sure that you understand any restrictions on the zoning of your property, as well as the property itself to ensure that you don’t lose thousands, or end up in a lawsuit for demolishing a heritage-designated and protected home. A little bit of effort can make all the difference. Call Heath Law if you’re purchasing a residential property lot on Vancouver Island.