13 Questions to Ask When Buying Land

Summary

This informative video guide outlines 13 crucial questions to consider before purchasing land, emphasizing the importance of understanding land use, zoning, easements, access, and survey status. It also highlights the significance of rights in interest, water features, environmental concerns, proximity to public utilities, current and neighboring land usage, presence of trails or roads, and potential government actions like eminent domain. The ultimate goal is to ensure buyers make informed decisions and secure the right land for their needs.

Takeaways

• 📝 Determine the intended use for the land before purchasing to ensure it meets your needs.
• 🏘️ Understand the zoning of the land to avoid buying land unsuitable for your intended purpose.
• 📜 Be aware of any easements that may affect your use or access to the property.
• 🚪 Check if there is legal access to the property to avoid future access issues.
• 📐 Ensure the land has been surveyed to know the exact boundaries of your property.
• 🏞️ Be informed about the rights in interest, including any mineral rights, that come with the land.
• 💧 Look for water features on the land as they can significantly increase its value.
• 🌿 Investigate any known environmental defects or issues that might affect the land.
• 🏡 Consider the proximity and availability of public utilities for ease of living or development.
• 👣 Ask about the current and neighboring land uses to understand the surrounding environment.
• 🛣️ Identify if there are existing trails or roads on larger properties for ease of movement.
• ⚖️ Be aware of any potential government actions, such as eminent domain, that could affect the property.

Q & A

What is the primary consideration when deciding to buy land?

The primary consideration is the intended use of the land. Knowing the purpose helps ensure that the land purchased meets the buyer's needs the first time.

Why is it crucial to understand the zoning of the land before buying?

Zoning is crucial because it dictates the allowed uses of the land, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural. Buying land with incorrect zoning can lead to future complications or the inability to use the land as intended.

What is an easement and why should it be considered when buying land?

An easement is a legal right for someone else to use or access a property. It's important because it can affect the property's use and value, and may require the landowner to allow access to others.

Why is access to the property a critical factor in land purchasing?

Access is critical because without legal access, such as a public road or easement, the land may be difficult or impossible to reach, which can severely limit its usability.

What does it mean if a land has been surveyed?

A surveyed land has had its boundaries mapped and documented, providing clear information on the exact area owned, which is essential to avoid disputes or misunderstandings about property lines.

What are 'rights in interest' and why are they important in land transactions?

Rights in interest refer to the ownership of everything above and below the land, including any minerals or resources. It's important to ensure that the land purchase includes all desired rights, especially if the buyer is interested in subsurface resources.

How can the presence of water features on a property affect its value?

Water features like rivers, streams, or lakes can significantly increase the value of the land, making it a more attractive and potentially lucrative investment.

Why is it necessary to know about any environmental defects or issues on the property?

Environmental defects or issues, such as chemical spills or pollutants, can affect the land's usability and value, and may require costly remediation efforts.

What role do public utilities play in the desirability of land for development?

Proximity to public utilities like electricity, gas, and water is important for development, as it can reduce the cost and complexity of bringing services to the property.

How can the current and neighboring land uses impact a buyer's decision?

Current and neighboring land uses can impact noise levels, aesthetics, and the overall suitability of the land for the buyer's intended purpose, such as residential living or farming.

What is the significance of existing trails or roads on a large property?

Existing trails or roads can facilitate easier movement and transportation within the property, which is particularly beneficial for large properties and can enhance their value.

What is eminent domain and why should potential buyers be aware of it?

Eminent domain is the power of the government to take private property for public use upon payment of just compensation. Buyers should be aware of it because it can result in the loss of the property if the government decides it is needed for a public project.