The Do’s and Don’ts of Buying Vacant Land

Buying vacant land can be an exciting and rewarding experience. It can be an opportunity to build the home of your dreams or start a new business venture. However, before you jump in and start looking for that perfect piece of land, it's important to understand the do's and don'ts of buying vacant land. Here are some tips to help guide you in your search.

Do's

Do work with an agent to find the land. An experienced real estate agent can help you find the right property, negotiate the purchase price, and guide you through the buying process.

Do have your finances in order. Make sure you have the funds to purchase the land and any associated costs, such as survey fees, closing costs, and property taxes.

Do find out what utilities service the area. You will need to know what utilities are available and whether they are accessible to the property.

Do find out if incentives are available. Depending on the location, there may be tax incentives or other benefits available to encourage development.

Do visit the tax assessor’s office. This will give you a better understanding of the property's history, ownership, and any outstanding taxes or liens.

Do price the neighborhood. Research the area and find out what other properties in the neighborhood are selling for. This will give you a better idea of the fair market value of the land you are considering.

Don'ts

Don't expect to finance your lot. Financing options for vacant land are limited, and it can be difficult to secure a loan. Make sure you have the funds available to purchase the land outright.

Don't skip the soil tests. Soil tests will tell you if the land is suitable for building or if there are any potential issues, such as soil instability or contamination.

Don't forget to get a survey done. A survey will determine the exact boundaries of the property and ensure there are no encroachments or boundary disputes.

Don't let neighbors know of your plans. It's important to keep your plans private until you have closed on the property and have the necessary permits and approvals.

Don't assume you can have property rezoned. Rezoning can be a difficult and time-consuming process. Make sure you research the local zoning laws and understand what is permitted in the area.

Don't rely on a drive-by. Take the time to walk the property and inspect it thoroughly. This will give you a better understanding of the land's condition and any potential issues.

Buying vacant land can be a great investment, but it's important to approach the process with caution and do your due diligence. By following these do's and don'ts, you can help ensure a smooth and successful land purchase. If you're looking for vacant land in Morgan Hill, Hollister or the surrounding areas, our experienced real estate team is here to help. Contact the Pacific Oak Homes team today to learn more!