16 Questions to Ask When Buying Land

Are you getting ready to purchase a piece of land? While the deal might sound attractive, it is vital not to rush your decision. We prepared a list of questions to ask when buying land to receive critical information about the property. They should give you a knowledgeable decision about whether to proceed with the purchase!

1. Are There any Problems with Land Boundaries?

Is the neighbor claiming to own a portion of that land? You don’t want to risk planting or investing in a property that won’t be legally yours or comes with a variety of issues. Ask for any relevant documentation to ensure that everything is clear when it comes to boundaries and property ownership.

2. What Rights Do I Get with the Property?

You should receive a variety of rights with the land you buy. Those include road access, development, mineral, and other rights. Another thing to consider is titles received with the surface. Those could be access easement, exclusive possession, and other titles.

3. What Is the Best Way to Use the Land?

The land might be excellent for planting crops or cultivating particular herbs. Other parts of the land are ideal for hunting. Make sure to consider the most profitable use of the ground you are buying. Don’t forget that legal implications might stop you from using the land the way you intended.

4. What Is Property Zoning?

When it comes to property zoning, it might be smart to ask the local authorities. While it is okay to trust the seller, that is the best way to be sure. The zoning rules will tell you whether you can build on the property, use it for hunting, or explain what its potential uses are. 

5. How to Access the Property?

Is there a road that will lead you directly to the land? Can you check that road to see its condition, and whether it is suitable for driving a vehicle? Any road is better than having to go on foot for acres before reaching your land. Think about the access, and make sure it suits your needs and expectations. 

6. Is Water Drainage Efficient on the Land?

Water drainage can be a big problem on some soils, especially if it is a rainy area. Some grounds can be dry a couple of hours after a heavy rain, while others collect water. You should gather details on water drainage before buying the land.

7. Did You Do a Soil Percolation Test?

A soil percolation test is among the questions to ask when buying land. It is a test done by an expert who will tell you about water absorption capabilities and other specifics of the ground.

8. Are There Conservation Easements for the Land?

Is a part of the ground a conversation easement? That is any land where natural resources are protected, and you can’t build or use it in any way. It is something that allows you to negotiate the price, so make sure to have the right information.

9. Is Electricity Available on the Land? What Other Utilities Are There?

You might buy land without any utilities. However, some grounds might have electricity, water, or septic system. Make sure to check the options of getting the internet and see if mobile networks work on the property.

10. What Taxes Are Applicable?

That largely depends on the property’s location since regulations vary from state to state. Now, you might also qualify for tax breaks, so make sure to get to know the applicable regulations well.

11. Are There any Properties Nearby?

You’d like to know who your neighbors are, but that’s also important for getting a better idea of the area. If there is no one miles around, or there are only deteriorated properties, ask yourself if that is the right place to buy land?

12. Is There a Water Feature on the Property?

It would be nice to have a small river or stream on your land. If you are looking for a retreat or appreciate a water feature, make sure to ask if the desired ground has one.

13. Is It Possible to Grow and Harvest Timber?

Are you looking to invest in timberland? If the answer is yes, you want to ensure that it is possible at the desired property. The general rule is that at least two-thirds of the land is an option for growing and harvesting timber.

14. Can You Find Wood Mills Nearby?

Here is another question to ask when buying timberland. If it takes plenty of time and money to reach the wood mill, it might not be profitable to take on the project.

15. Is There any Problem I Should Know?

It is a long shot, but it can’t hurt. Once you find the right time, ask if there is anything to know about the land. If the seller is honest, they might talk about the potential problems, which will reveal more about the property.

16. Can You Camp or Place RV on the Property?

The property use will depend on the regulations. If you plan on camping or hunting or renting the land for that purpose, make sure to get to know the law well.

Ask the Right Questions to Find the Best Property

Due diligence is critical when making a large purchasing decision. You want to make sure that the piece of land you buy will serve you and your family for years to come, without unexpected fees or maintenance. If you’re looking for a transparent purchasing experience with high quality, vetted properties, then browse the selection at Land.US today!