Inside Lot

Definition

An “Inside Lot” in a subdivision is a parcel of land that is surrounded on each side by other lots, as opposed to a corner lot which has road frontage on at least two sides. Inside lots typically have a singular road frontage and are more common in densely packed residential subdivisions. These lots can vary in size and shape but are generally characterized by their position within the grid of the subdivision.

Examples

Typical Suburban Lot: In a planned suburban neighborhood, many houses sit on inside lots which are bordered by other houses on either side and backyards adjoining behind.
Urban Residential Block: In a city block, several residential units may be on inside lots, surrounded by other properties with only a single street access.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the advantages of owning an inside lot?

Inside lots typically offer more privacy since they are surrounded by neighbors rather than being exposed to street traffic on two or more sides. They may also be less expensive compared to corner lots which can command a premium price due to their additional accessibility and exposure.

2. Are inside lots subject to specific zoning laws?

The zoning regulations for inside lots depend on local municipal codes, but generally, they adhere to the same residential zoning laws as other types of lots, with conditions on structures, setbacks, and usage.

3. How does the value of inside lots compare with corner lots?

Inside lots are usually less expensive than corner lots primarily because corner lots often have more expansive road frontage and potential for greater design flexibility.

Corner Lot: A lot located at the intersection of two streets, having road frontage on at least two sides.
Cul-de-Sac Lot: A lot located at the end of a dead-end street, often with a unique shape due to the rounded street end.
Flag Lot: A lot with a long narrow “flagpole” access to a road, located behind one or more lots.
Frontage: The portion of a lot that abuts a street or road.
Subdivision: A tract of land divided into smaller parcels for the purpose of building residences or other structures.

Online Resources

Investopedia Real Estate Terms: Investopedia
Realtor.com Glossary: Realtor.com
Local Zoning Ordinances: Available on municipal websites or through local government offices.

References

“Principles of Real Estate Practice” by Stephen Mettling and David Cusic.
“The Language of Real Estate” by John W. Reilly.

Suggested Books for Further Studies

“Real Estate Investing for Dummies” by Eric Tyson and Robert S. Griswold.
“The Book on Rental Property Investing” by Brandon Turner.
“Real Estate Principles: A Value Approach” by David C. Ling and Wayne R. Archer.
“Your First 365 Days in Real Estate” by Shelley Zavitz.

Real Estate Basics: Inside Lot Fundamentals Quiz

### An inside lot is typically surrounded by: - [x] Other lots on each side - [ ] Roads on two sides - [ ] Highways - [ ] Commercial property > **Explanation:** Inside lots are typically encircled by other lots, making them distinct from corner lots with multiple street frontages. ### In a subdivision, which lot is likely to have more exposure to street traffic? - [ ] Inside lot - [x] Corner lot - [ ] Flag lot - [ ] Cul-de-sac lot > **Explanation:** Corner lots have more exposure to street traffic due to having road frontage on at least two sides. ### One potential advantage of an inside lot is: - [ ] Higher cost - [x] More privacy - [ ] Greater commercial potential - [ ] Generally larger size > **Explanation:** Inside lots often offer more privacy due to being surrounded by other properties rather than having multiple exposures to the street. ### Which term describes a lot at the end of a dead-end street? - [ ] Inside lot - [ ] Corner lot - [ ] Flag lot - [x] Cul-de-sac lot > **Explanation:** A cul-de-sac lot is situated at the end of a dead-end street, often characterized by its unique shape. ### What kind of lot is separated from the main street by another property and is accessible via a narrow strip? - [ ] Corner lot - [ ] Inside lot - [x] Flag lot - [ ] Cul-de-sac lot > **Explanation:** A flag lot has a long narrow "flagpole" strip providing access to the main street. ### Which term would correctly describe a lot that has road frontage on two sides and is often prime for business exposure? - [x] Corner lot - [ ] Inside lot - [ ] Flag lot - [ ] Cul-de-sac lot > **Explanation:** Corner lots have road frontage on two sides and thus often offer excellent exposure, advantageous for various uses including businesses. ### In a residential neighborhood, which type of lot generally commands a higher price? - [ ] Inside lot - [x] Corner lot - [ ] Flag lot - [ ] Cul-de-sac lot > **Explanation:** Corner lots typically command a higher price due to their increased accessibility and exposure. ### In zoning terms, which type of lot might have similar residential zoning laws to that of an inside lot? - [ ] Commercial lot - [x] Both a corner lot and a cul-de-sac lot - [ ] Industrial lot - [ ] Flag lot only > **Explanation:** Both corner and cul-de-sac lots generally adhere to similar residential zoning laws as inside lots. ### Road frontage typically refers to: - [ ] The number of access points a house has. - [x] The portion of a lot that abuts a street. - [ ] The width of the driveway. - [ ] The area of the lot closest to other properties. > **Explanation:** Road frontage refers to the section of a lot that is adjacent to a street or roadway. ### An inside lot's typical configuration mostly affects: - [ ] Its commercial viability - [ ] Its suitability for agricultural purposes - [x] The privacy it offers - [ ] Its industrial potential > **Explanation:** The configuration of inside lots, being surrounded by other lots, tends to afford more privacy.