When it comes to building your dream home, one of the most important decisions you'll make is selecting the lot. It's not just about finding a piece of land that looks nice — it's about envisioning how your home will function, feel, and fit into the landscape. Check out this video with John Dotty as he explains the top factors you should think about as you search for the perfect property:

1. Which Direction Should Your Home Face?

Begin by considering the orientation of your home. Do you want to face north, south, east, or west? The direction your home faces can influence the amount of natural light you get, your energy efficiency, and whether you’ll enjoy morning or evening sun on your porch or deck. For example, a southern exposure is often preferred for maximizing sunlight during the day, while a west-facing home might bring in those gorgeous sunset views. See this video for more details.

2. One-Level or Multi-Level Home?

Another key decision is whether you envision a single-story home or a multi-level design. This choice might be influenced by personal preferences, lifestyle needs (like aging-in-place considerations), or the topography of the lot. Multi-level homes might be ideal for sloped lots, while flat lots are often best suited for single-level living.

3. Slope and Elevation of the Lot

Speaking of topography, take a close look at the slope and elevation of potential lots. Is the land flat, or does it have hills and elevation changes? These factors can affect not just the home's design, but also drainage, landscaping options, and even construction costs. See this video for more details.

4. Openness vs. Privacy: Vegetation & Trees

Think about how open or private you want your future homesite to feel. Do you prefer an open, expansive view, or would you like the natural privacy that comes with mature trees and dense vegetation? Trees can offer beauty and shade, but they can also impact views and require maintenance. Decide how much greenery you want surrounding your home once it's completed.

5. Accessibility: Ease of Getting In and Out

Access to your lot is a practical yet crucial consideration, especially during the winter months. Is it easy to get in and out of the property with a vehicle? Will the driveway be steep, long, or shared with neighbors? Also, consider how emergency services, delivery vehicles, and guests will navigate to your home.

6. Room for Future Buildings or Additions

Finally, think long-term. Does the lot have space for future expansions or additional structures? Whether you’re dreaming of a detached garage, a workshop, a guest house, or a gazebo, make sure the lot has the flexibility to accommodate those possibilities down the line.

Conclusion

Choosing the right lot goes far beyond location and size. By carefully considering these factors—orientation, elevation, privacy, accessibility, and future expansion—you’ll set a strong foundation for a home that fits both your current needs and future dreams.

Building your dream home on a lake in Minnesota is about more than just stunning views—it's about crafting a space that enhances your lifestyle while embracing the natural beauty of the surroundings. In this article, we’ll explore six lakefront floor plan considerations in greater detail.

Designing for Your Lakefront Lifestyle

Your dream lake home should be a sanctuary where you can relax, entertain, and fully enjoy the water. Consider:

• How often you’ll entertain guests—do you need large gathering spaces, a spacious deck, or a boathouse?
• Whether you need a home office (and if you want that office to come with a view of the lake!).
• Storage for outdoor gear like kayaks, paddleboards, fishing equipment, and seasonal decor.

A well-designed lake home blends functionality with a sense of escape, making the most of its stunning location.

Prioritizing Room Layout and Views

A lake home’s floor plan should maximize natural beauty while maintaining privacy and comfort. Some key considerations include:

• Lake-facing living spaces: Position main living areas, such as the great room and kitchen, to take full advantage of lake views.
• Open-concept vs. cozy nooks: While open layouts are great for entertaining, private spaces like a reading nook or a screened-in porch offer peaceful retreats.
• Guest accommodations: If you anticipate frequent visitors, consider extra bedrooms or a separate guest suite.

Finding the Right Size and Scale

Bigger isn’t always better, especially when designing a home that complements its natural setting. Consider:

• The balance between indoor and outdoor living—covered patios, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens can extend your living space beyond the home’s footprint.
• Storage solutions to keep the home organized without feeling cluttered.
• The sustainability of a smaller, well-designed home that reduces maintenance and energy costs.

Maximizing Natural Light and Airflow

A Minnesota lake home should embrace natural light and fresh air. To achieve this:

• Opt for large windows and sliding glass doors to frame lake views and bring in ample sunlight.
• Incorporate cross-ventilation by positioning windows and doors to take advantage of lake breezes.
• Consider high ceilings and skylights to create an airy, open feel.

Considering Single-Level Living

For those planning a forever home or wanting ease of mobility, a single-level floor plan can be a smart choice. Some benefits include:

• Accessibility: No stairs mean easier navigation for all ages, from young children to aging homeowners.
• Energy efficiency: Single-story homes are often more cost-effective to heat and cool, making them a practical choice for Minnesota's climate.
• Seamless indoor-outdoor connection: With fewer elevation changes, patios, decks, and lake access points become more integrated into daily life.

If you prefer a single-story design but need extra space, you may want to consider a finished lower level or a loft that provides additional rooms while maintaining the convenience of main-floor living.

Planning for Seasonal Flexibility

Minnesota’s seasons range from warm summers to cold and snowy winters, and a lake home should be designed for year-round enjoyment. Keep in mind:

• Insulation and heating options: Radiant floor heating, fireplaces, and well-insulated windows keep your home cozy in winter.
• Mudroom and storage space: Essential for handling wet gear, boots, and seasonal clothing.
• Outdoor living spaces: Screened porches and covered patios can be enjoyed in multiple seasons.

Final Thoughts

Designing a dream lake home in Minnesota is about creating a space that blends beauty, function, and relaxation. By considering your lifestyle, maximizing natural views, and planning for year-round comfort, you can build a home that truly feels like a retreat.

Deciding on a builder for your Minnesota lake home is a big decision. You're not just hiring a builder, you're starting a partnership.

Every custom-built home is unique. Every client is one of a kind. But all of them, at some point, ask the same question: "How long is building a home going to take?"