Ancient sages of India laid down several principles for the construction of buildings by utilizing the Pancha Bhoota or the elements of nature. They were of the opinion that such a method would bring balance and harmony between man, nature and his buildings. But before proceeding towards construction it is important to select a land. Hence the survey of land or soil is necessary.

The following tips may prove helpful:-

Firstly 2 pits of the dimensions 2`X2`X2` need to be dug. Then in one of the pits the same freshly dug clay should be filled again. If the clay remains even after filling the pit it will bring prosperity. If it is just equal or falls short it is best not to purchase the land at all.

In the other pit water should be poured. Then the time of the absorption of water need to be noted. If it takes more than an hour it will lead to prosperity. Moreover one must look out for big cracks on the floor of the pit after the complete absorption of water. in case there are big cracks then the construction will be a little expensive.

The plot should have been a site for crematorium, samadhi or a basement in the past.

While purchasing somebody`s residence, if there have been two or three deaths in an interval of a month or more than one person has committed suicide then it is better not to purchase such an estate.

If the colour of the soil of the plot is black upto a depth of 12 feet then no effort can lead to any improvement of position. In case the land has red soil after a depth of 3 or 4 feet it can be purchased.

White soil is the next best soil color to the red one. Yellow color soil is of medium level.

Vastu Shastra propounds that if after digging the plot till 1 foot a smell of oil or ghee emanates then the land is definitely good.

While purchasing a plot it should be kept in mind that there is no big electric pole in the north east direction of the plot. Telephone pole is not harmful.

The most important point while selecting the plot is the magnetic meridian. It should be in unison with the axis of the plot. This implies that all the four directions are to be properly obtained in a suitable plot. Even if these directions are rotated upto 15° to 30° the plot is still purchasable.

When the four major directions are coming in from the four corners of the plot such plot is called Vidishi plot. At such places the both the good and the bad effects of Vastu Shastra are of a lesser degree. This does not mean that one should not buy such a plot. If the main entrance of such plots is not infested with evil powers then the construction of a building is welcome here.

If the soil of the plot is of crumbly rock easy money is obtained. If the soil is yellow it is considered auspicious for business men.

In the north-east corner of the plot a flat vessel containing water should be kept on a flat surface. Sweet smelling flowers of medium size should be dipped into this water. If the flowers move in a circular path and approach the north direction the place is very auspicious.