Living sustainably and modular is not a thing of the future anymore; it is happening right now! As more people across Europe embrace modern, sustainable living, modular homes have become a popular choice for everything, from vacation rentals to fully functional forever homes. 

However, before you can move into your perfect turn-key modular house, one important step is finding the right land. At Evermod, we offer turn-key solutions across Europe, especially the Netherlands, Iceland, Sweden and beyond, but many clients ask us the same question over and over again: “Where do I begin when it comes to land?” Indeed, it is a very important question to consider before starting your modular journey. This guide walks you through the process, from identifying suitable plots to navigating local regulations, all tailored to different considerations to take into account in Europe.

Why Your Land Choice Matters

Modular homes offer speed, efficiency, and design flexibility, that’s true, but they still need a solid foundation. What would be a house without a foundation? Choosing the right plot of land ensures your turn-key modular unit is safe, connected, and compliant with local planning laws. A poorly chosen site can lead to delays, extra costs, or, even worse, legal issues. That’s why investing time upfront in researching and evaluating your options will pay off significantly.

Decide on Your Ideal Location

Are you dreaming about a peaceful countryside retreat, a rental by the beach to make a great business, or a suburban/urban family home? Location affects not just the lifestyle you’ll enjoy, but also property value, local regulations, and service access.

Some considerations:

Urban or rural: Urban plots may come at a premium but usually offer better access to utilities and transport. Rural areas often allow more flexibility and space, but might have stricter land use rules.

Proximity to infrastructure: Check the distance to schools, hospitals, shops, and public transport if you plan to live or rent the unit long-term. These are all the essentials for a well-settled life, right?

Local market demand: If your modular unit will be used for rental purposes, consider tourism trends or housing shortages in the region. Also, here you can learn more about starting a rental business with turn-key modular homes.

P.S. Our expert tip: Use property search sites like Green-Acres or contact local real estate agents who specialize in land sales to see what’s available.

Understand Local Zoning and Planning Laws

Zoning laws differ widely across Europe, and even between municipalities different laws can be enforced. Before purchasing any land, make sure it is:

• Zoned for residential or mixed-use development
• Permitted for modular or prefabricated construction
• Free from environmental restrictions (such as protected land or flood zones)

Most EU countries also require you to submit a building permit application, complete with architectural drawings, environmental assessments, and proof of compliance with energy standards. While your Evermod team can help guide you through some of this on the surface, it's important to consult local authorities or a planning expert before buying. Interestingly, the Evermod Attefall model does not require any building permits in Sweden and minimal in other countries. Check your local municipality's website for planning details or visit the EU's Urban Agenda for broader guidance on sustainable land development.

Evaluate Site Conditions Before You Buy

Even if a plot looks ideal, you’ll need to dig a bit deeper, sometimes literally.

Topography and Soil

Sloped terrain can significantly increase the complexity and cost of installing a modular home, as well as time, often requiring additional groundwork or custom foundation solutions. The type of soil on the site also plays a crucial role, as it determines the kind of foundation your turn-key modular unit will require to ensure stability and durability. Additionally, environmental factors such as flood risk, the presence of large rocks, or unstable ground conditions can all impact construction timelines and may require additional engineering assessments before proceeding.

Utilities and Access

Before selecting a plot for your turn-key modular unit, it is very important to confirm whether the site can be connected to basic utilities like water, sewage, electricity, and internet. Imagine buying a piece of land just to later find out that it is not allowed to connect utilities. Equally important is ensuring that there is adequate road access for large delivery trucks that will transport and place the modular units. If these utilities aren’t already in place, be sure to get estimates from local providers. While the idea of off-grid living might seem appealing, the costs and logistics involved in setting it up can be surprisingly high, especially with solar panels, so make sure to weigh both options and see which one is most suitable for you.

Match Property Size to Your Needs and Plans

Before choosing a plot, consider how much space your modular unit and your lifestyle will require. A compact turn-key modular unit may fit comfortably on a small lot, but if you're planning for multiple modules, outdoor living areas, parking space, or future expansions, you’ll need a larger property. Think about how you intend to use the space: Will it be a holiday rental with a terrace and garden? Or maybe a full-time residence with room for a growing family?

Lastly, consider whether there’s room to expand. If you plan to add more modular units down the line, make sure the land can accommodate future growth. Sit down, note your priorities and future goals, and make the best decision to ensure long-term satisfaction with your investment.

Consider Future-Proofing

When choosing land for your turn-key modular unit, it’s essential to think long-term. A plot that seems perfect today might not meet your needs in five or ten years. Consider whether the area is slated for future development; this could boost your property’s value, but it might also bring increased noise, traffic, or infrastructure changes. You should also evaluate the resale potential. Properties located near transport links or employment hubs generally retain their value better and are more attractive to future buyers or renters. 

Work With Modular-Friendly Professionals

Not all real estate agents, surveyors, or local planners are familiar with the unique aspects of modular construction. It's important to partner with professionals who have experience in off-site building methods and understand the specific zoning, permitting, and logistical requirements that come with installing a turn-key modular unit. They can help flag potential issues early, such as delivery access or foundation challenges, and ensure your project proceeds smoothly from land purchase to installation. Working with experts in this space also saves you time and prevents costly mistakes down the road.

Conclusion

Finding the right land is arguably the most important step in your modular journey. With the right plot, your investment in a turn-key modular unit becomes a lifestyle choice that pays off in comfort, convenience, and long-term value. At Evermod, we’re here to help. Whether you're just starting to explore options or ready to break ground, our team is happy to support you in choosing land that makes the most of your modular investment.

Want More Guidance?

Check out Prebuilt Australia’s guide for more insights on selecting land for modular homes; many of these principles apply globally. Or browse our Evermod models to see which designs best match your dream location and give us a call!