What is an Infill Home?

what is an infill home
At McNeill Burbank, we are experienced builders of infill homes. An “infill home” may not be a term you are familiar with. When you are looking at building a new house on a vacant or underutilized lot within an established, mostly built-out neighborhood, you are looking at an “infill” home. The term comes from the fact that the home fills in gaps in existing urban or suburban areas, rather than expanding development into previously undeveloped land (called “greenfield” development).

Where Do You Find Infill Homes?

Infill homes are typically found in older, established neighborhoods where some lots have remained undeveloped, or where older, potentially dilapidated structures have been removed. When you see a newly constructed home in a historic neighborhood like Raleigh’s Five Points or Mordecai, or in established areas where new construction blends with existing homes, this is an infill home.

Why Build an Infill Home?

As more families look to build a new home in Raleigh, infill construction has become increasingly popular. Many want to be in older, more established neighborhoods for their charm, sense of community, and history. Infill development revitalizes existing communities, makes better use of available land, and increases housing density in desirable areas.

  • Preserving Open Space: Helps prevent urban sprawl and protects natural habitats.
  • Utilizing Existing Infrastructure: Leverages existing roads, utilities, and public services.
  • Promoting Walkability: Infill neighborhoods often offer walkable layouts and access to transit.
  • Using Modern Systems: Infill homes are built with energy-efficient, modern features.

Popularity of Urban Infill Housing

infill home

Urban infill housing has trended up as people look to return to the cities from suburbs and farther out. As land prices continue to increase, particularly in Raleigh’s competitive luxury home market, infill housing is a way to get into an existing, older neighborhood and enjoy the luxury of a new home build.

People are drawn to infill homes because they offer the opportunity to live in established neighborhoods with access to existing amenities and infrastructure, while also being more environmentally sustainable and potentially more affordable than building on greenfield sites.

Location, Location, Location

  • Proximity to Amenities: Schools, shops, transit, and more are often nearby.
  • Walkability and Reduced Commutes: Enjoy shorter travel times and less traffic reliance.
  • Sense of Community: Infill development can help strengthen and preserve neighborhood character.

Environmental Sustainability

  • Reduced Sprawl: Preserves open spaces and limits outward growth.
  • Efficient Infrastructure Use: Avoids the need for new roads and utilities.
  • Lower Carbon Footprint: Promotes walkability and reduces long commutes.

Potential Cost Benefits

  • Lower Land Costs (Potentially): Smaller lots can be more accessible in prime areas.
  • Reduced Infrastructure Costs: Use of existing systems can reduce project expenses.
  • Customization Opportunity: Build a home to your specifications within an established setting.

Revitalization and Community Enhancement

  • Replacing Vacant Lots: Brings life to underused or neglected areas.
  • Increased Property Values: New homes can uplift the entire neighborhood.
  • More Amenities: Greater demand can bring new businesses and services.

Contact McNeill Burbank Home Builders

Are you interested in an infill home? Connect with our local experts who can help guide you through the process from lot selection to custom build by calling [phone] or filling out the form below. We’ll be with you every step of the way.

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