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My colleague and I had wondered about why the cost of houses in hilly or mountainous terrain was more expensive. Does it actually cost more to build in these type of areas?
Heck yeah! Foundations are much simpler on flat terrain, moving all construction materials around is easier, there would be a much greater likelihood of issues of access and storage of construction materials and equipment on hilly terrain, drainage design can be more complicated, terraces, porches and flatwork all are affected- access to the outdoor areas- many other issues.
As someone who designs houses this is one of the first things I point out when assessing a lot- that being said I think houses built on a bit of terrain have a much greater chance of being interesting architecturally.
Heck yeah! Foundations are much simpler on flat terrain, moving all construction materials around is easier, there would be a much greater likelihood of issues of access and storage of construction materials and equipment on hilly terrain, drainage design can be more complicated, terraces, porches and flatwork all are affected- access to the outdoor areas- many other issues.
As someone who designs houses this is one of the first things I point out when assessing a lot- that being said I think houses built on a bit of terrain have a much greater chance of being interesting architecturally.
How much more expensive does it run? 20-30%? Does putting in a basement make it easier or harder for you as a builder?
Site preparation costs a lot more. There is more bulldozer work. Driveways cost a lot more. It costs more to bring utilities in. Foundations might or might not cost more.
Once the foundation is in, everything above that level should cost the same, unless it is difficult to get materials into the site.
Another issue, building lots in hilly locations can cost more. if there is any sort of a view, the price of the land goes up. If there is some pretty forest, the price of the land goes up.
Lots are very likely larger, and the more land you get, the more it costs you. If there are noticeable hills, the builder is a lot less likely to be able to fit 10 houses on an acre,
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