If you’ve recently viewed a property situated on a slope, you may have some reservations – and it’s understandable. Manypotential buyersare concerned about issues including flooding and user-friendliness. Take a moment to understand what slope-side property ownership truly entails, and whether these fears are warranted.
Water
Drainage is easily the biggest worry in most buyers’ minds. Potential slope-side homeowners are often particularly concerned about water runoff flooding their basem*nt, oversaturating their lawn, or coating their driveway with sheets of ice. While it’s true that – under some circ*mstances – there’s a bit of risk associated with having part of your property elevated above the rest, there are also plenty of easy ways to alleviate that risk.
Most homes in flood zones or on hillsides will make use ofa sump basin and pumpto collect and drain away heavy rain and groundwater. If the home you’re viewing was built without a sump system, having one installed after purchase is strongly recommended. De-icers are also handy for those in colder climates, and should be applied to the driveway at the first sign of snow to prevent thick sheets of gently flowing water from freezing in place.
Accessibility
Heavily inclined driveways and front walkups may mean that those with a harder time handling stairs (especially loaded down with armfuls of groceries) or navigating steep roads will encounter some difficulties. The issue can be compounded in very cold climates, where frequent snowfall in winter months makes regular shoveling and plowing a necessity. Those with concerns about their strength and stability should be aware of this in advance, and give real thought to whether they will be ready to handle long-term residence here.
Slanted Yard
One fairly practical problem with living on a hillside is that there is no level yard to enjoy. The ground can be artificially leveled, of course, but this is expensive and has the potential to destabilize the ground and may not be safe for this reason. There are many things, like a pool, a trampoline, or even a game of soccer with the kids that cannot be enjoyed easily with a slanted yard.
Landslides
A potential disadvantage of a hillside home is the possibility of landslides (yes, they can happen in the Heartland). Plants help to anchor the soil on a hillside, especially trees with their deep root systems. Removing plant life from a hillside to make room for views, a yard and a building footprint can destabilize the ground and make it more susceptible to water erosion. House foundations help to counteract this, but a landslide can wipe out whole hillsides in a few seconds, given the right conditions.
So, are there any benefits to owning a home on a hillside?Yes!
Benefits of a Buying a Slope-Sided Property
Hillsides are usually excellent real estate for homes for several reasons, including access to an unblocked view. The allure of hillside real estate may be superseded by waterfront real estate in some locations, but generally a hillside is an excellent place to build or buy.
Views
A view of the surrounding country is the most common advantage associated with a home built on a hillside. Owners of hillside homes often top the trees that block access to their view. Tall trees on the high side of a hillside property, which can potentially block the view of neighbors farther up the hill, may sometimes be a source of conflict.
Exclusivity
Another advantage of hillside homes is the exclusivity and remoteness that they usually offer. Cities and town centers are rarely built on a hillside; typically they are located on more level ground. A home on a hillside, then, is a way to get away from the city and enjoy rural life.
More for Less
Another advantage to considering a home on a hill slope is that they are often a bit harder to sell. Savvy buyers may find that the asking price is a bit lower than comparable nearby properties on flatter land. Furthermore, sloped lots open up some incredible architectural opportunities. Your new home may have such features as basem*nt walkouts, extensive panoramic windows, and unparalleled vantages out across the downhill land.
If you aren’t happy with your home on a hill – don’t settle!#SellItWithSaraBut, if you are looking for a great deal and haven’t considered looking at a home on a hill – don’t hesitate!#BuyItWithSarawww.sellitwithsara.com
