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When buying land, consider amenities, zoning ordinances, environmental hazards, and property survey. Check for easements and road maintenance costs. Get an assessment on the ground before bidding.
People want to buy land for many reasons. The main reason for most people is the need to have a space of their own. Other reasons include cleaner air and a desire to build a custom home. Parcels located away from the city are often the least expensive, per acre, but can cost more to deliver supplies and hired labor. In addition to costs, there are many other things to consider when buying land.
One of the most important factors to consider when buying land is the availability of amenities. Water isn’t always potable, nor does all water rights come with land, meaning you may not be allowed to put into a well. Check the running costs of electricity and telephone services on your land, if they do not already exist. You may also need to install a septic system if you can’t tap into the sewer. These necessities can get very expensive.
Check zoning ordinances before buying land. You can find out what they are by checking with city, county and state authorities. There may be land restrictions, such as not constructing buildings on plots smaller than a specified size. If you are looking for privacy and quiet, make sure there are no plans to build a supermarket or an airport nearby.
When buying land, consider the pros and cons of living in the country versus living in the city. You may need to smell smog and exhaust fumes when you live in the city, but there will be pig and cow smells in the countryside. The noise of traffic and people in the city will be replaced by roosters and goats in the countryside. The grass isn’t always greener on the other side.
Consider the environmental hazards surrounding the area where you are buying the land. Some mountainous areas are prone to flash floods, landslides and avalanches. Areas along fault lines are prone to earthquakes. Dry and hot areas may be at risk of fire. Check for other lesser-known dangers, such as toxins in the dirt.
When buying land, make sure you do a property survey. This will let you know where your property lines are and what rights you have to your land. Make sure, if you have to walk through other properties to access your land, that there is an easement in place. Check your share of road maintenance costs.
Last, but not least, make sure you get an assessment on the ground. If you go to a credit institution, this will already be a requirement. If you are paying in cash you will need to order a land survey. Never bid before receiving an appraisal. You want to make sure you get what you pay for.
Smart Asset.
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