Planning and servicing come first
Official-plan direction, zoning permissions, height and density limits, setbacks, parking, access and neighbouring uses shape what can be pursued. A planning scan helps identify where the concept aligns and where an amendment, study or municipal consultation may be required.
Water, sanitary, stormwater, hydro and transportation capacity can determine whether the project works at the intended scale. Existing infrastructure nearby does not automatically confirm capacity or a straightforward connection.
Test the physical site constraints
Site geometry, topography, easements, heritage considerations, soil conditions and environmental constraints can reduce the developable area or change the building form. Access for construction and long-term operations should be considered at the same time.
These findings do not necessarily rule out a site, but they need to be reflected in the concept, due-diligence conditions and financial model.
Align the concept with delivery reality
Unit mix, building form, amenity, phasing and target pricing need to respond to real demand while remaining compatible with approvals and construction economics. A concept can work on paper and fail when schedule, financing and escalation are added.
A buildable opportunity is therefore a coordinated decision: planning, design, market, cost and delivery assumptions must support the same project.