Choosing the Right Block for Your Custom Home in Perth Hills

Building a custom home is a dream for many, especially in the serene surroundings of the Perth Hills. But before you dive into the design and building process, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is choosing the right block of land.

Your block will determine many aspects of your home’s design, from orientation and layout to maximising natural light and views. At JFK Custom Homes, we understand the importance of selecting the perfect block for your vision. Here’s our ultimate guide to help you make an informed decision.

Understand the Lay of the Land

The natural terrain of Perth Hills is diverse, ranging from steep slopes to flatter, more accessible areas. When choosing your block, it’s essential to consider how the land’s slope might affect your home design.

• Sloped blocks: Areas like Wundowie, Darlington, and Serpentine are known for their more rugged terrain and can offer stunning panoramic views, but may require more complex designs, such as split levels or retaining walls. The good news is that JFK Custom Homes specialises in building on sloped blocks, ensuring your home fits perfectly into the natural landscape.

• Flat blocks: Suburbs like Bakers Hill and Mundijong offer flatter blocks that are easier and more cost-effective to build on. These areas are ideal for larger homes with expansive layouts, though they may lack the elevation needed for breathtaking views.

Orientation Matters

The direction your block faces will significantly impact the energy efficiency, natural light, and overall comfort of your home.

• North-facing blocks: Ideal for maximising sunlight throughout the day, especially during winter months, which can help reduce heating costs. Suburbs like Bakers Hill and Chidlow offer many north-facing opportunities.

• West-facing blocks: While they may capture beautiful sunsets, particularly in higher elevation areas like Serpentine, they can also lead to increased heat in the afternoons, requiring strategic window placement and shading solutions.

• South-facing blocks: These may experience less direct sunlight, but with smart design choices, JFK Custom Homes can ensure your living spaces still feel bright and inviting.

Access and Utilities

It’s essential to ensure that your chosen block has easy access to essential services, such as water, electricity, and sewage systems. Some areas in the Perth Hills, such as Wundowie and Bakers Hill, may require additional work to connect to these utilities, which can add to your overall project cost.

When you work with JFK Custom Homes, we assess all these factors upfront to provide a clear understanding of any additional requirements.

Council Regulations and Zoning

Before purchasing your block, it’s important to research the local council’s zoning laws and building regulations. 

Different suburbs in the Perth Hills region have varied zoning laws and building regulations.

For example, Mundaring and Kalamunda have specific guidelines to protect the natural landscape, which can impact the type and size of the home you’re allowed to build. 

JFK Custom Homes has extensive experience working within these local regulations, streamlining the approval process for your dream home.

Size and Shape of the Block

The size and shape of your block will dictate the layout and scale of your custom home. Larger blocks, such as those found in Bakers Hill and Serpentine, offer more flexibility in design, while narrower or irregularly shaped blocks in areas like Wundowie may require creative solutions to maximise space. 

At JFK Custom Homes, we specialise in tailoring designs to suit the unique characteristics of each block, ensuring you make the most of every square metre.

Maximising Views and Privacy

For those seeking a more secluded lifestyle with breathtaking views, areas like Gooseberry Hill and Darlington are ideal for elevated blocks with panoramic views of Perth. These regions allow homeowners to enjoy the serenity of nature while still being within commuting distance to the city. If you prefer more open and flatter landscapes, Bakers Hill and the surrounding areas provide ample space while maintaining a rural, peaceful feel

Consider how neighbouring properties or future developments might impact your view or privacy. JFK Custom Homes can help you strategically position your home on the block to maximise views while maintaining seclusion from neighbours.

Soil Quality and Stability

Perth Hills is known for its rocky terrain, and soil quality can vary across different blocks. Conducting a soil test before purchasing the land is essential to determine if any additional work is needed, such as excavation or stabilisation, which could affect your budget.

 In areas like the Swan Valley, the soil is typically sandy and may require less excavation, while the rockier terrain of regions such as Darlington or Kalamunda may require additional preparation work.

With JFK Custom Homes’ expertise, we ensure that all necessary groundwork is considered and factored into the overall design and construction plan.

Budget Considerations

When choosing a block, it’s important to factor in any additional costs that may arise due to the land’s characteristics. Sloped blocks, poor soil conditions, or difficult access may increase building costs. 

However, investing in the right block can make all the difference in creating a home that is both functional and beautiful. JFK Custom Homes provides transparent pricing and expert advice to help you stay within budget while bringing your vision to life.

Conclusion

Selecting the perfect block for your custom home in the Perth Hills is an exciting first step in the home-building journey. By considering factors like terrain, orientation, and council regulations, you’ll be well on your way to creating a home that reflects your lifestyle and makes the most of the stunning natural surroundings.

At JFK Custom Homes, we’re here to guide you through every stage of the process, from choosing the right block to delivering a home that’s tailor-made for you. Contact us today to begin your custom home journey in the beautiful Perth Hills.