Design Checklist

Russell Lands’ architectural review protects lake and property values

To some, being able to buy a lake lot in an unrestricted area without architectural approval is a desirable proposition. To the more knowledgeable and experienced, buying in an unrestricted area is a risky investment proposal. We have found architectural review to be both a great value enhancer as well as investment insurance.

One of our team sums up the need/value proposition very succinctly with this statement: “The Architectural Review Committee (ARC) is your worst enemy when you are building but your best friend when your neighbor is building.” Yes, it is true that the ARC can slow you down or require that you invest extra money with design enhancements, but that same consistent oversight prevents your neighbors from doing things that erode the value of your investment.

An example in older developments on the lake—those without protective covenants and an ARC process—demonstrates the effects of a lack of consistent controls. It is not rare in an unrestricted or unenforced area to see an owner make a substantial investment in a lake home, only to have their neighbor build a modular house next door or allow their property to deteriorate. There are many examples of lush landscaping on one property only to have an overgrown forest next door. Real estate pros will confirm that consistent design and care raises property values for everyone.

Standards developed over time

Russell Lands has been developing and building lake neighborhoods since the early 1970s. Over time, we have learned a few things about lake home designs and “best practices” that are required to get a project off the ground. The most important part of the process occurs months or years before the first homesite is sold. This is the creation of Protective Covenants and Design Guidelines.

These two documents establish the ground rules for the approval process, the actual criteria for the house (minimum square footage, set-back limits, landscape, pier placement, etc.) as well as the governing enforcement powers of the ARC and the neighborhood Board of Directors.

Another early part of the process is the interviewing, vetting, and approval of architects, home designers, landscapers, and home builders. Having a “go-to list” of professionals who understand how to design and build on the lake is a real value-adder when you are about to make a significant investment. We have found that when designers and builders are familiar with the lake and the criteria, there can be significant savings in design dollars and implementation time.

We have also learned, in our newer areas like The Ridge, that providing owners with additional information like an accurate survey, topographical information, and recommended pier placement aids in design and implementation. The provision of this information by the developer can save the owner thousands of dollars in civil engineering expenses, incorrect design selection, and unnecessary grading and foundation expense.

When it is time for the ARC to review the design package for approval, the required documents include house plans, site plans, grading plans, landscape design, and exterior color palate. The committee is not looking for ways to say “no” but rather to give constructive advice that allows the project to fit into the community and enhance the project values. Most of the time, since the committee has decades of combined experience, recommendations are appreciated by the owners as enhancements to the overall property design.

Our desire is that property values in our neighborhoods continue to grow and our property owners have a pleasant surprise when their neighbor builds their home.

If you would like more information about our covenants, guidelines, approved architects, or approved builders, please reach out to one our sales executives at 256.215.7011. They will be happy to point you towards the right resource.