When purchasing developed lots for an Epcon Communities project, what further approval might be required before vertical construction can begin?
Epcon_Communities Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Note 1.B: Purchase of Developed Lots:
If you purchase developed lots for your project, it may lessen the time required to bring your to project to market. Lots developed by a third party and purchased by you will, in most cases, have been zoned, entitled, developed, have the proper permitting to be built upon and may be purchased as one, collective purchase, as a staged take-down, or individually. However, further zoning approval may be required in certain municipalities related to exterior architectural element requirements before vertical construction may begin. The estimate above is for two developed lots, one for the Model Home Unit and one for the first Unit in your project to be offered for sale to homeowners.
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 22–32)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Epcon Communities' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee purchases developed lots, the zoning, entitlement, land development, and permits needed for the development of the lots will generally have been obtained before the purchase. However, in certain municipalities, additional zoning approval related to exterior architectural element requirements may be required before vertical construction can begin.
This means that even if the lots are already developed and seemingly ready for construction, Epcon Communities franchisees need to verify local requirements. This is to ensure that the exterior design and architectural elements of the planned construction meet the municipality's standards. This step is crucial to avoid delays and potential redesign costs.
Prospective Epcon Communities franchisees should consult with local zoning authorities and conduct thorough due diligence to understand specific architectural requirements in their chosen area. They should also factor in the time and potential costs associated with obtaining any additional zoning approvals into their project timeline and budget.