Common Mistakes People Make When Seeking Development Approvals

Several steps are involved in the development approval process that can easily be missed and delay the process.

Hiring a professional planner can help with the crucial parts that first-time applicants may not be familiar with. A good planner will always research and gather necessary background and supporting material that can save both time and resources.

To help you avoid some basic errors that could prove to be costly, Oakview Land Use Planning has put together a list of the most common mistakes people make when seeking development approvals.

1. Underestimating the time required

Regardless of the complexity or simplicity of development, i.e., building a house or developing a subdivision, there can be many issues that require time and consideration. It is never too soon to start asking questions.

2. Underestimating the cost

Despite the attempts by different levels of government and approval authorities to streamline the approval process, there will always be known costs and unanticipated expenses that you should plan for. Regardless of the scale of development, you are taking on the developer and/or builder role.

3. Scheduling too far ahead

Although it is always good to be prepared and ready to move forward once your project is approved, you should always make sure you understand any time limits that may be associated with your approval.

4. Thinking you can do it on your own

Everyone loves DIY projects, but smart DIYer also know their strengths and when to call the experts because some things are better left to the professionals.

5. Not managing your expectations

The development industry has been on fire for several years, and many people see property ownership as a golden ticket to a quick profit. It can be rewarding, but only if you do your homework and know that it will rarely happen as quickly as you’d like.

To avoid these and other mistakes, reach out to the experts at Oakview Land Use Planning. We have twenty-three years of experience with a strong municipal background working in both urban and agricultural areas with everyone from individual property owners to residential, commercial, and industrial developers, greenhouse growers, farmers, and building contractors.

We can assist with site plan approval, development review, justification, MDS, subdivision plans, OLT preparation and filing, and land severance. We serve clients across Southwestern Ontario, including Essex, Chatham-Kent, Lambton County, Elgin County, Middlesex County, and the surrounding areas.

Get in touch with us today!

For a complete list of our services, please click here. If you have any questions about the land use planner, we’d love to hear from you. For more information, please call us at (519) 809-4539 or email us at rbrown@oakviewlup.ca.