So you’ve found the perfect piece of Texas Hill Country land — wide open skies, oak trees swaying in the breeze, and maybe even a glimpse of the lake or hills in the distance. Now what?
Before you can turn that raw land into the home of your dreams, there are a few key things to understand. At Mitchell Custom Homes, we’ve helped hundreds of clients navigate this exact moment — when the vision is real, but the details aren’t yet clear.
Here’s what to consider before building a custom home on your own lot.
1. Land Isn’t Always “Build-Ready” — and That’s Okay
It’s easy to fall in love with a view or location, but not all lots are ready for construction out of the gate. That doesn’t mean it’s the wrong choice — it just means there’s a little more prep involved.
Things to check:
- Slope and grading
- Access to utilities (water, electric, sewer or septic)
- Tree removal or preservation
- Soil conditions
- Easements or deed restrictions
We often walk lots with clients to evaluate buildability before they even make an offer. It’s one of the many ways we help set the stage for a smoother project later on.
2. Orientation Makes a Huge Difference
Where the sun rises and sets matters more than you might think. Window placement, outdoor living spaces, and even energy efficiency are influenced by how your home sits on the land.
We design with orientation in mind — so your primary bedroom isn’t facing harsh afternoon sun (unless you want it to), and your covered patio actually gets shade when it counts.
3. Site Prep Can Affect Your Budget (and Timeline)
Clearing trees, leveling the land, and trenching for utilities are all part of the pre-construction process — and they come with costs. Knowing these upfront helps you build a more realistic budget.
We give our clients a full breakdown of what site work may be required and how it affects everything else down the line.
4. Local Codes & HOA Guidelines Matter
Every municipality — and even some rural communities — has rules around what you can build and where. From minimum square footage to roof height to exterior materials, it’s important to know what you’re working with.
Already in an HOA? We’ll help make sure your design meets all requirements without compromising on the look and feel you want.
5. We Build Around Your Life, Not Just the Land
The beauty of working with a custom builder like Mitchell is that we don’t just plop a floor plan onto a lot. We walk the site, listen to how you live, and build a home that fits both your lifestyle and your land.
Want to face your living room toward the sunset? We’ll make it happen. Dreaming of a driveway that curves around your favorite tree? Let’s design it together.
Owning land in the Hill Country is a dream for many — but building on it takes care, experience, and a team that knows what to look for before the first nail is ever driven.
At Mitchell Custom Homes, we’re here to guide you from lot to layout and every step in between. If you’ve got land (or you’re looking), we’d love to help you imagine what’s possible.
