Building your dream home starts long before the foundation is poured. After helping 200+ clients through our Step-by-Step Builds program, we’ve identified the most overlooked site prep steps – and how to fix them.

1. Soil Testing (The Silent Foundation Killer)

That beautiful lot might hide expansive clay or hidden springs. A $1,000 soil test can save you $20,000 in foundation repairs later. Look for:

• Bearing capacity (min. 1,500 psf)
• Clay content (under 15% ideal)
• Water table depth (critical for basements)

2. The Grading Goldilocks Zone

Too steep? Drainage issues. Too flat? Pooling water. Aim for a 2% slope away from your foundation. Pro tip: Laser-guided grading costs 20% more but prevents 90% of drainage complaints.

3. Utility Chess Game

Schedule these before excavation:

• Call 811 for underground line marking (free!)
• Temp power pole installation ($1,200-$3,000)
• Construction water tap ($500-$1,500)

4. Access Road Realities

That scenic lot? It needs:

• All-weather construction access (gravel minimum)
• Turnaround space for concrete trucks
• Storage area for materials (or theft becomes likely)

5. The Hidden Cost: Time

Site prep takes 3-8 weeks (not the 10 days most expect). Budget for:

• Weather delays (20% buffer recommended)
• Permit approvals (varies by county)
• Equipment availability (book excavators early)