Homebuyers don't like to compromise. When it comes to the yard, the bigger the better.

The corner lot represents utopia for many homebuyers seeking a yard that may be unique or larger than the usual rectangular lot. But corner homes, however unique, don't always provide what homebuyers are looking for.

“It pays to research corner homes carefully,” says Richard Roll, president of American Homeowners Association. “The potential downsides are more traffic noise and less privacy. Some corner lots come with a large side yard but little usable space in the backyard.” For more info, go to http://www.ahahome.com

Rarity and demand can drive up the prices for homes on corner lots. It's simple geometry—most blocks have four corners, and thus, only four corner homes.

Some advantages are aesthetic; some concerns are practical. In addition to offering more space outdoors, a corner home can be seen sometimes from two or even three sides. That allows gardening enthusiasts to showcase their landscaping. On the other hand, that means more grass to cut.

The corner layout sometimes puts entrances to home and garage closer to the street or sidewalk. The shorter distance from the curb means less driveway or walkway to shovel in the winter and less ground to cover carrying the groceries.

On the down side, the potential sacrifices to being closer to the street or sidewalk are more traffic noise and less privacy. In some lot configurations, the side setback from the street and pedestrians may be extremely narrow, up close and personal.

Sometimes the corner configuration comes up short in usable yard space. Most of the usable outdoor space may be located in the side yard, while the back of the home butts up against the neighbor's property line with little space for a traditional backyard. Some owners make the best of it by installing a patio or small deck, screened by a fence or shrubs for privacy.

For more information on any aspect of buying a home, go to http://www.ahahome.com, the web site for American Homeowners Association.