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Flag lots are a unique type of land parcel in real estate. Their unusual shape and configuration with respect to bordering properties can offer greater privacy than traditional lots — but these plots of land also come with their own set of disadvantages. Read on to learn more about flag lots, including the pros and cons of this type of property.
What is a flag lot?
Most single-family homes are built on a plot of land, called a lot, that borders the street along one side (or two sides, for a corner lot). Flag lots are different — named for their resemblance to a flag on a pole, these plots have a long, slender strip of land (the pole) extending from the street to the typically rectangular main part of the lot (the flag). The pole section of a flag lot is usually just a driveway, which provides street access but doesn’t open up into actual, buildable land until it reaches the flag section.
How they differ from other lots
These irregularly shaped parcels of land can be a unique draw for some homebuyers. Their lack of street frontage means they can be surrounded by trees, not by traffic, for example. In addition, those who value privacy might like them because a home built on a flag lot typically cannot be seen from the street. However, these lots are often considered undesirable, especially in densely populated areas, because they are hemmed in by neighbors on all sides. Developers often put flag lots on cul-de-sacs, which typically have limited frontage, to help them fit in more houses. Below, we’ll expand on the benefits and drawbacks of homes built on flag lots.
Pros of a flag lot
Advantages of a flag lot include:
More privacy: