03/27/2026
One of the most common questions I get is what to look for when buying land to build on. Here are a few things I always walk buyers through.
Access, Road Frontage and Future Subdivision
Does the property have direct access from a public road? If not, is there a recorded easement in place? Access is one of the most fundamental considerations and can significantly impact your ability to build and finance the property. Road frontage also plays an important role for buyers who may want to subdivide down the road, whether for family members or future use. Not every tract lends itself to being divided, and ensuring the property has sufficient frontage and the right characteristics to support that goal is an important consideration from the start.
Topography and Usability
Not all acreage is created equal. Understanding how much of the tract is actually usable and suitable for a building site is critical. Steep or heavily sloped ground can add significant cost to site preparation and construction. If there is not already a road or access cut into the property, I always recommend getting opinions from local excavation and site work contractors early in the process to get a realistic picture of what development may cost. It is also important to identify whether any portion of the tract falls within a floodplain, as this can impact where and what you are able to build.
Utilities
Is water, sewer, or electric available at the road or will you need a well, septic system, or other solutions? Knowing what utilities are available and what it will cost to bring them to your building site is an important part of your due diligence. For those planning to work from home, internet connectivity is an equally important consideration. Understanding whether fiber or cable service is accessible at the property or whether a satellite based solution such as Starlink would be necessary is something worth researching early in the process.
Soils and Septic
If public sewer is not available, it is important to have a soil scientist evaluate the property for septic suitability. This should be completed during your due diligence period prior to closing to avoid unexpected complications down the road.
Zoning and Restrictions
Understanding the zoning and any deed restrictions or covenants on the property will ensure your intended use is permitted before you close.
Have questions about finding the right tract to build on? Feel free to reach out anytime.
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