Any finite area or site ultimately has a highest and best use determined by physical, social, economic, or political influences or a combination thereof. ultimately that “highest and best use” encompasses all aspects of land planning, site design and those relationships to the most compatible use. Normal analysis for highest and best use, or intended use of these factors are typically carried out as follows:

Physical - mapping and analysis of:

• Soils and subsurface geology

• Slope and topography

• Drainage and lakes

• Tree cover and vegetation

• Access, transportation, and man made features

• Environmental assets or constraints

Economic:

• Land cost per acre and surrounding appraisals

• Demand factors

• Alternative use costs/yield

• Land use patterns

Social:

• Urban development trends (local and area wide)

• Demographic factors

• Socioeconomic pattern and projections

Political (Public Interest):

• Land use constraints

• Zoning and permitting required

• Neighborhood group meetings