If you are planning to buy vacant land, visiting the property should be one of your first steps toward purchasing. That visit can be either virtual or in person. It may be your future home, a new business, or an investment opportunity. No matter the purpose of your purchase, visiting vacant land requires lots of consideration and things to look for.

Like any other purchase, buying a property starts with research. Once you have your shortlist of properties, your next step should be to visit the property. Based on your purpose and planned use, visit the area, not only the property itself. Look out for attractions, the local community, and businesses surrounding the vacant land you’re considering. This will help you establish if the property is adequate for you. And like we said, with modern tools such as Google Maps and MapRight, you can do this investigative visit online!

Always keep your priorities in mind. When starting your search and creating your shortlist, first set a list of must-haves. Once you’re visiting your shortlisted properties, always refer to that list! Consider specific questions about the property and its characteristics. When visiting vacant land, prioritize your needs and wants. Keeping your needs in mind allows you to create your guide to visiting the property. 

If you’re still unsure about how to get started, consider our general tips below. Visiting vacant land can seem complicated or confusing, but we’re here to help!

1. Take your time

Don’t feel pressured but don’t exceed a reasonable amount of time. Try to set up some minutes that may be adequate, about 30-60 minutes. You should get a feel of the place, the property, and its surroundings.

2. Confirm the specifics

Get confirmation on the size of the lot, road access, utilities, and property limits, just to name a few. Again, don’t forget your must-haves! Neighbors can be your best resources, ask those around you about property and area.

3. Research the neighborhood

We can’t stress this enough! The area matters just as much as the property itself. Check for regulations, zoning categories, and limitations. Spend time walking around and pay attention to the things that matter to you. Consider transportation, public services, and shops. Keep in mind the day of the week, and the time of the day you’re visiting.

4. Seek professional help

The conditions of vacant land may be tricky to the eyes of someone who doesn’t know what to look for. If you are not sure about the value of the property or if there are any hidden issues, get the property evaluated by a professional. An inspection would work the same as a house inspection. Professionals will know if the soil is contaminated, some wetlands, and issues or advantages that can come with buying this property.

5. Use your senses

There may be some issues or problems in the property that the seller is not telling you about. Or they may even be hiding them on-site. Be on your guard for unusual smells, and pay attention to what you see and hear. If visiting online, try to identify structures you might not be aware of or differences in property limits. Write all this down during your visit and ask the seller to account for it.

6. If there are any, structures need special attention

When visiting vacant land, you should always expect it to be vacant. This means raw land with no developed structures. If you’re looking for vacant land, structures bring more work, even if just tearing it down. If there are any, even if just a shack, you should pay specific attention to them. Look for dampness and hairline cracks in the walls. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or if you think something doesn’t fit!

7. If you think it’s worth it, visit the property more than once

If you are not sure or have some concerns, don’t feel bad to pay another visit to the place. Consider exploring the same location on a different day of the week and time of day. The area might be significantly different depending on when you’re visiting. If you like the property, visit it again!

8. Separate your emotions from reason

We know it’s not easy, but you mustn’t get too attached early. You don’t have to overlook potential problems or faults only because you become attached to the place sentimentally. Looking for a vacant property in your current location might not be the best way to go. You could find a property just as good for cheaper or much better for the same price just a few counties away. Do your research and prioritize your needs!