Things to Consider When Buying Land

Are you thinking about buying land? Are you buying it for you to build on or for an investment? There are several things you will want to consider before you make your purchase. Is it in a good location? Or up and coming area that is hot? What type of lot are you considering? Small- Acreage? Do you want to buy a large piece and have it split? Can it be split and what are the restrictions to do so? What is it currently Zoned, can the zoning ever be changed if needed? What types of permits are required to build on the land? How easy are they to obtain? Is there water to the property? What type? Well? Local franchise? Hauled? Is there electric or gas to property or how far away is it. Can it easily be brought to the location and what are the costs involved. Is there a septic in place or does one need to be put in? If so has it been inspected? In order to buy the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality will require the septic to be certified for use. What are the restrictive covenants if any? Can you build any type or size house or building? Are there restrictions on whether you need a single story? Is there a minimum square footage of home that must be built? Are the roads dirt or paved? Will there be issues with heavy rains on the dirt roads? Will there be flooding? If the roads are going to be paved in the future will there be a cost to you as the land owner? Is it in a flood zone? What are the restrictions to build and the costs of homeowner's insurance once my house is in place? Are there any liens or easements connected to the neighboring properties or in place by the city or county for utilities or road expansion? Will I have to have a survey to build? Who does the survey and what are the costs associated with this? Is the land raw currently? What is the procedure in getting the land ready for building? This and any other questions need to be answered before you decide to buy land or pick the right spot for you and your needs. To get started contact your Realtor who knows about land and can point you in the right direction to get your questions answered. The county or city you are thinking of purchasing will have a Planning and Zoning Department that can answer more specifics on the use of land in certain areas. Also get a recommendation for a local builder or contractor who is familiar with the area you are looking and what costs may be associated with your purchase. Remember, everyone is looking for a deal but if you buy the cheapest piece of dirt and end up putting 3 times as much money into getting it ready to build than the little bit more expensive piece to start you may want to consider buying a more prepared, more expensive piece of land to begin with. Dani Miller Solutions Real Estate