It's easy to overlook details that may cost you money later on, or even prevent you from building your dream home. Before buying land or a lot, make sure the property is accessible. Access roads or driveway permits must be approved by the Hocking County Engineer's Office and meet certain safety requirements. Chek that you have access and necessary easements for installing electricity. You may also need to obtain a notarized easement from neighbors (and it they're unwilling to grant it, you won't have any recourse).

You should also make sure your property is not in a flood zone and that you can obtain a permit from the Hocking County Health Department for septic and water.

Check existing easements and leases on the property. Many properties in the Hocking Hills region have oil and gas leases that limit access and construction on the site.

Check the level and quality of the water table. The farther you have to drill a well, the higher the cost. The water quality across Hocking County varies considerably. Soil and water conditions will dictate the cost of the septic system, and these costs can vary between $6,000 and $24,000.

Many people underestimate the cost and hassle of developing land into a site ready for construction. Log home kits look easy and affordable, but unwary buyers are soon faced with the

realities and costs of constructing an access road or driveway and installing electricity, water and a septic system not to mention site preparation and final landscaping. Also, some kits do not include roofs, windows, doors or finished interiors.

It is also important to investigate the financing costs, insurance and property taxes. Interest rates may be higher on second homes and property taxes on improved land are more expensive.