LAND SOLUTIONS

Buying land is a big investment, and there are several critical things to check before signing a purchase agreement. Unlike buying a house, land comes with unique challenges, from zoning laws to soil quality. Here are 10 must-know factors to consider before purchasing land.

1. Zoning Laws & Land Use Restrictions

Not all land is buildable. Check the local zoning regulations to see what you can do with the property.

• Visit the county zoning office
• Look for land zoned as residential, agricultural, or commercial
• Watch out for conservation or historical restrictions

2. Access & Road Rights

Some land is landlocked, meaning there is no legal road access.

• Ensure there’s a public or private road leading to the property
• Look for an easement agreement if access is through private land

3. Utilities & Infrastructure

Does the land have access to electricity, water, and sewer systems? If not, you may need:

• A well (cost: $3,000–$15,000)
• A septic system (cost: $5,000–$15,000)
• Electricity hookup (cost: $1,500–$10,000)

4. Soil Quality & Percolation Test

If you plan to build, test the soil quality to ensure it supports construction.

• A perc test is required for installing a septic system
• Poor soil can lead to foundation and drainage issues

5. Flood Zone & Environmental Risks

Check if the property is in a flood zone or environmentally protected area.

• Use FEMA’s Flood Map Service
• Avoid high-risk areas with frequent flooding or erosion

6. Property Taxes & HOA Fees

Taxes on land vary by location. Check the property tax rate and whether there are HOA fees.

• Call the county assessor’s office for annual tax estimates
• If in a gated community, check for extra costs

7. Easements & Legal Restrictions

Ensure there are no legal claims or restrictions on the land.

• Get a title report
• Avoid properties with undisclosed liens or disputes

8. Survey & Boundaries

Verify the exact property boundaries with a land survey.

• Cost: $500–$2,000
• Prevents future boundary disputes

9. Market Value & Investment Potential

Check comparable sales (comps) to ensure you’re paying a fair price.

• Use sites like LandWatch, Zillow, or county records
• Look for nearby developments or infrastructure projects

10. Resale & Exit Strategy

Before buying, think about how easy it will be to resell the land in the future.

• Choose growing areas with high demand
• Avoid land that’s difficult to build on or access

Conclusion

Buying land can be a great investment—but only if you do your homework first. By checking zoning laws, access, utilities, and property boundaries, you can avoid costly mistakes and make an informed purchase.