Topo-what? Topography!

Yes. The characteristics of land! Let's read about it.

What does it mean?

to·pog·ra·phy (/təˈpäɡrəfē/)

noun

1. the arrangement of the natural and artificial physical features of an area. "the topography of the island"

Natural features, size, and shape of the lot are really important factors to take into consideration for a couple reasons.

First off, building is practically impossible on some elevations, terrains, and slopes. Second, while these features might theoretically be able to be built, building on a lot with challenges will raise the difficulty of construction and consequently your costs.

To what extent will the land need to be prepared, before construction can start?

Third, you'll need to consider the land's geographic features when deciding if it suits your needs; residentially or recreationally. A property with cliffs, water or potentially dangerous features might not be the best choice for a residential build. Does the lot have a river running through it, are there cliffs too close for comfort? Is there mountains and hills all through the lot?

Pro-Tip:

Also consider the size of the parcel when determining whether or not the property is a good fit for you. Make sure it’s big enough to build on, and there’s enough room left over for whatever else you have in mind. Just because the acreage or square footage is suitable, doesn’t mean the shape of the property is. A square lot is ideal, but consistency in this factor isn’t realistic. Land lots comes in all kinds of shapes and sizes, all special in there own way. But, if you’re looking for 3 acres to build on, you probably won’t be interested in a long rectangular property that’s 30 feet by 4,271 feet. Do you know how many square feet equals an acre? (hint: roughly, a football field - in perspective)