Custom Land Buying or Selling Step-by-Step Guide

What a good one includes

• A detailed breakdown of current zoning classifications, permitted uses, setback requirements, and any local overlay districts affecting the parcel.
• A chronological list of physical inspections, including soil perc tests for septic systems, boundary surveys, and environmental site assessments.
• Direct guidance on verifying legal road access, easements, and the availability or cost of connecting to electricity, water, and sewer services.
• A step-by-step path for securing necessary municipal permits, grading approvals, or building clearances required for development.
• An outline of local property tax rates, potential agricultural exemptions, and estimated closing costs specific to land transactions.
• A clear sequence of steps for conducting a title search, securing title insurance, and executing the deed transfer.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Many buyers assume power and water are nearby, only to discover that bringing utilities to the property line costs tens of thousands of dollars.
• Relying on tax maps or word-of-mouth instead of a modern boundary survey often leads to bitter disputes over fences, driveways, or building encroachments.
• Failing to review private HOA rules or historic deed restrictions can permanently block you from building your desired structure or keeping livestock.
• Purchasing land without a successful percolation test can leave you with a lot that is legally uninhabitable because a standard septic system cannot be installed.

Frequently asked questions