Our Approach
Due Diligence
Our First Step Toward Success
Read through the steps of due diligence that we follow below for some insight into the work we do before even beginning the actual project at hand. Click the button for more information on each topic.
*Note: This is not an exhaustive list as there are many variables in the analysis of a project site.
Contact us anytime if you have any questions.
#1: Research ordinances, regulations, and federal requirements applicable to your project.
Research the laws, regulations, and ordinances within the city, county, state or otherwise so there are no surprises during the development process. It is also sometimes useful to know the processes and schedules of these entities if you need to work them in regards to your project site. The more efficient and smooth the entire process runs, the better for everyone involved. Research and preparation can give you the information you need to plan and implement the project with a lesser chance of a situation coming up that could delay the project or even worse.
#2: Conduct an initial analysis of the site.
- Does the site make market sense? (number of housetops, traffic counts, property & sales tax expenses, etc.)
- Is the site zoned appropriately?
- Has the site been platted?
- Are there environmental considerations?
- Hazardous waste contamination
- FEMA Flood Zones
- Tree Protection/Preservation
- Other Protected Species
- Wetlands
- Is there historical and/or archeological significance?
- Are there any deed restrictions?
- Are there any special overlay districts?
- Will adjacent property zoning & land use impact the site?
- Other considerations.
#3: Investigate available utilities.
- Are public utilities nearby? (water, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, solid waste)
- Are there franchise utilities nearby? (electricity, telephone, natural gas)
- What will the developer’s cost be to extend utilities to the site and across the site?
- Are there any utility impact fees?
- Are there any utility pro rata fees?
#4: Determine transportation characteristics and requirements
- Are roadways adequate?
- What are the perimeter street paving requirements?
- Are there any roadway impact fees?
- Are any signalization of roadway intersections required?
- Are the number of allowable driveways and driveway spacings suitable for your site?
- Is driveway access controlled by TXDOT, city or county? (If your site includes a TXDOT access permit there needs to be from 3 weeks to 6 months extra in the schedule to allow for its process.)
- Is a Traffic Impact Analysis required?
#5: Confirm that the desired improvements will be acceptable in accordance with local building restrictions.
- Is there a boundary survey, topographical survey, and/or tree survey with improvements?
- If not, are there other sources of information available such as city/county maps for the site?
- Are there any special requirements by the city/county with regard to:
- Architectural Standards
- Building Height
- Building Setbacks
- Fire Flow
- Fire Lanes
- Freight Loading/Unloading Areas
- Landscape/Irrigation
- Lighting
- Park Dedications
- Park Development Fees
- Parking Spaces
- Screening/Fencing/Buffering
- Signage
- Trash enclosures
- Other special considerations
#6: Confirm that the desired improvements will be acceptable in accordance with local building restrictions.
- Is storm water detention required?
- Does the downstream off site system have adequate capacity for increased flow?
- Do the oncoming site flows prescribe any requirements for extraordinary drainage system improvements?
#7: Investigate any hindrances that would stall the project moving forward.
Does the title search show any easements, liens, delinquent taxes, boundary issues, or other issues on the property?
#8: Investigate any hindrances that would stall the project moving forward.
Preparing a Concept Site Plan help you determine if your project as envisioned will fit on the site and satisfy all of the municipal requirements for the site’s development.
Work Within Local Ordinances and Guidelines
As our due diligence research progresses, it may be discovered that the site’s zoning needs to be changed, an Alternative Development Plan or other overlay Plan considered, a variance needed, etc.
If required, we will request the necessary changes for your site’s success through the city/county’s processes.