Any Advice from Houston Area Developers?

[Joshua Burke]

Hi All, 

I am looking at a small piece of property ~4 acres in the Houston/Harris County area that may have some profit potential with re-platting/selling individual lots, or maybe even multi-family development. This would be a whole new venture for me, and I am looking for any advice/tips/comments etc. from someone that has done this, particularly in the Houston area.

Here are some things that I have considered but would like some direction on:

Easement restrictions - The property has what appears to be a pipeline/powerline easement through the center. I have reached out the the county engineers to discuss limitations for development. 

Storm water - I vaguely understand that there will need to be a retention pond to offset any buildup for new property. Any advice here? Ratio of developed area vs. area for pond? Or all depends on existing elevations?

Engineering - Will need to reach out to an engineering firm to generate re-plat drawings, survey elevations, determine storm water routing/retention volumes, design roadway, sewer systems, etc.. Would greatly appreciate any advice/direction here.

Permitting/Coordination - I spoke with the county and they indicated the property was unrestricted use, implying re-platting for residential lots or re-zoning for multifamily would be an option. How do I go about this? What permits will I need and is there any cost metric to use here?

I would love to speak to someone who has worked through a development in Harris County. Any and all advise is appreciated!

Thanks!

Josh