When buying a lot in Brian Head or similar mountain resort areas, consider:

• Price: Ensure it aligns with your total build and design budget.

• Lot Fit: Your home must be set back 25 feet from the front and 20 feet from the sides and back.

• Slope: Steep lots may require caissons or retaining walls, adding to construction costs.

• Zoning: Verify that the city or county zoning laws permit your intended use, and check if nearby lots can host developments that might affect your home’s value.

• Design Restrictions: Review HOA or municipal design guidelines that could limit your preferred style or require additional approvals.

• Existing Vegetation: Removal may add cost; integrating existing trees into your landscape design can enhance natural beauty.

• Neighboring Lots: Consider how future builds could impact your privacy or mountain views.

Before design work can begin:

• Obtain a Geotechnical and Soils Report to determine if the property lies near fault lines or flood plains and assess soil suitability for construction.

• Hire a licensed surveyor to conduct a topographical survey of your lot.

For residential properties with up to four units, a licensed architect is not required by law, though an engineer’s involvement is mandatory.

Select a designer who:

• Listens to your vision and understands your goals.

• Has experience in local construction and design styles.

• Understands construction costs and local landscape design.

• Maintains a good relationship with permitting authorities for faster approvals.

• Accurate cost estimates from reputable builders typically vary by no more than 5%.

• Quality and experience are the biggest factors in pricing.

• Costs fluctuate based on appliances, fixtures, flooring, wall finishes, and roofing materials.

• Window and roof material choices can significantly influence total costs.

• Avoid late-stage design changes — adjustments after approval can raise costs by up to 200%, especially if reconstruction is needed.