The Ultimate Guide to Buying Cheap Undeveloped Land

Many people assume that owning a slice of the Texas countryside is a dream reserved for the wealthy. They see the rising prices around Austin and San Antonio and figure they’ve been priced out for good. But that’s not the whole story. With the right strategy, finding and financing your perfect plot is more achievable than you might think. It starts with knowing where to look for cheap undeveloped land for sale and understanding flexible options like owner financing that make it accessible. This guide will walk you through the entire financial side of buying land, from decoding prices to calculating the true cost of ownership.

Key Takeaways

• Do your homework on the fundamentals

  : Before you commit, confirm the property has legal road access, verify zoning rules directly with the county, and get quotes for utility connections to avoid costly surprises.

• Create a complete budget beyond the purchase price

  : Factor in development costs like clearing the land and installing a septic system, as well as recurring expenses like property taxes, to understand your total investment.

• Consider all your financing options

  : While banks can be strict about raw land, owner financing offered by local land companies often provides a more flexible and direct path to securing your property.

Find Your Perfect Plot: Where to Look for Land

Finding the right piece of land is the first exciting step toward building your dream. But where do you even begin? The good news is you have plenty of options, from broad online searches to connecting with local experts who know the lay of the land. The key is to use a mix of these resources to uncover the perfect spot for you. By exploring different avenues, you’ll get a comprehensive view of what’s available and find a property that truly fits your vision and budget. Let’s walk through the best places to start your search.

Search Online Land Marketplaces

The easiest way to start your land search is from your couch. Online marketplaces are powerful tools that let you see what’s for sale across the state. Websites like Land.com allow you to browse thousands of listings and filter them by price, acreage, and location, which helps you get a feel for the market. You can set up alerts for new properties and save your favorites to compare later. While these sites are fantastic for initial research and casting a wide net, think of them as a starting point. They give you a great overview, but the real gems are often found through more direct connections.

Connect with Local Land Companies

Once you have a general idea of what you’re looking for, it’s time to connect with local experts. Land development companies that operate in your desired area have an unmatched understanding of the local market. They often have available properties that aren't listed on major public sites and can offer unique benefits, like flexible owner financing. Working directly with a local company gives you access to their deep regional knowledge—they know the history of the land, upcoming developments, and the specific nuances of different communities. This direct relationship can make the entire buying process smoother and more transparent.

Explore Top Regions in Central Texas

Location is everything, and Central Texas is full of opportunity. The corridor between Austin and San Antonio is booming, but the best deals are often found in the developing communities just outside the major city limits. Exploring these up-and-coming areas can help you find affordable land with great investment potential. Drive around the counties you’re interested in and get a feel for the different towns. Pay attention to signs of growth, like new infrastructure or commercial development. Focusing on these areas with growth potential can help you secure a beautiful property that will also be a smart long-term asset.

Partner with a Real Estate Agent

If you want an expert in your corner, consider partnering with a real estate agent who specializes in land sales. A good agent can be an invaluable guide, helping you find properties that match your criteria and handle the complexities of a land purchase. They have access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and often hear about properties before they hit the open market. When choosing an agent, make sure they have specific experience with undeveloped land, as it’s a very different world from residential real estate. They can help you negotiate a land sale and ensure you’re making a confident, well-informed decision.

Identify a Great Piece of Land

Once you’ve narrowed down your search, it’s time to look closer at individual properties. Finding a great piece of land is about matching the physical characteristics of a plot with your long-term goals. Are you planning to build a home, start a small farm, or hold it as an investment? The right piece of land will feel like a natural fit for your vision. It’s not just about finding a cheap plot; it’s about finding the right plot for you. This means walking the property lines, asking a lot of questions, and paying attention to the details that will shape your future there. From the way the land lays to its access to modern conveniences, every element plays a role in its true value.

Check Location and Accessibility

You can find the most beautiful piece of land in Texas, but if you can’t get to it easily, it might not be the right fit. Think about how you’ll access your property. Is there a county-maintained road leading to it, or will you rely on a private dirt road that could wash out in a heavy rain? Consider your proximity to the essentials. How far is the nearest grocery store, hospital, or gas station? While seclusion is often a major perk of rural land, you’ll want to strike a balance that works for your lifestyle. Our available Texas properties are selected to offer both privacy and practical access to nearby towns.

Assess Natural Features and Topography

The land itself tells a story, so take the time to read it. The natural features and topography—the shape and layout of the land—will determine what you can do with it. Are you looking for a flat, open pasture perfect for grazing animals, or a rolling, wooded lot that offers privacy and a great spot to build a home with a view? Walk the property and look for key features like mature trees, creeks, or ponds. These elements can significantly affect the land’s usability and value. A property with diverse features often provides more options for building, recreation, and enjoying the natural landscape.

Confirm Utility Access

When you’re looking at raw land, it’s easy to forget the basics. But before you fall in love with a property, you need to figure out the utility situation. Does the land have access to electricity, or will you need to have poles run to your property? What about water—is there access to a municipal water line, or will you need to drill a well? The same goes for sewer service, as you’ll likely need to install a septic system. Buying undeveloped land is a fantastic investment, but you’ll want to contact local utility providers to get estimates for these services, as they can be a significant part of your budget.

Consider Future Development Potential

A great piece of land isn’t just about what it is today; it’s also about what it could become. Think like an investor, even if you plan to live on the property forever. Is the surrounding area experiencing growth? Are new businesses, schools, or residential communities planned nearby? Areas with strong development potential often see land values appreciate over time. Buying in a location that’s on an upward trend means your property could become more valuable in the future, making it a solid investment for your family and a legacy for generations to come.

Evaluate Proximity to Growing Areas

Being close to a growing town or city can offer the best of both worlds: the peace of rural life with the convenience of urban amenities. As Central Texas continues to expand, properties located near these growth corridors are becoming increasingly desirable. Proximity to a thriving community means better access to jobs, healthcare, shopping, and entertainment. It also suggests that the area is likely to see continued investment in infrastructure, which can further increase your property’s value and appeal. Evaluating a property’s connection to these growing hubs is a smart way to ensure your land meets your needs both now and in the future.

Decode Land Prices

Figuring out land prices can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with half the pieces missing. Unlike buying a house, where you can easily compare square footage and bedroom counts, raw land has a lot more variables. But don't let that intimidate you. Understanding what drives the cost of a property is the first step to finding a great deal and making a smart investment. It’s not just about the sticker price; it’s about the story behind it—the location, the market, and the unique features of the land itself.

The key is to look beyond the total cost and break it down into understandable parts. We'll walk through how to analyze the price per acre, spot market trends that can work in your favor, and assess a property's true value. This knowledge will empower you to confidently evaluate different land listings and know when you’ve found the perfect plot at the right price. Think of it as learning the language of land so you can speak it fluently when it’s time to make an offer.

How Location Affects Cost

You’ve heard it a million times in real estate: location, location, location. It’s a cliché for a reason. When it comes to land in Central Texas, proximity to major hubs like Austin and San Antonio is the single biggest factor influencing price. The closer you are to city amenities, jobs, and infrastructure, the more you can expect to pay per acre. As you move further out into more rural counties, prices generally become more affordable. While some of the cheapest land in the state might be in far West Texas, you can still find incredible value by exploring the beautiful countryside just an hour or two outside the major metro areas.

Know the Price Per Acre

Price per acre is the standard unit of measurement for land, and it’s the best way to compare apples to apples. It helps you understand what you’re paying for the space itself, separate from any structures. According to the Texas Real Estate Research Center, the statewide average price for an acre of rural land is climbing, recently hitting around $4,692. But remember, that’s just an average. Prices in the sought-after Texas Hill Country will be much higher, while other regions will be lower. Your goal is to research the typical price per acre in the specific counties you’re interested in to get a realistic baseline.

Spot Market Trends and Opportunities

A savvy buyer keeps an eye on market trends. The Texas land market is incredibly active, with thousands of transactions happening every year. Pay attention to what’s happening in the areas you’re considering. Are new businesses moving in? Are there plans for new highways or infrastructure? These are signs of growth that can increase a property's value over time. Following local news and regional development reports can give you an edge. Understanding these broader market dynamics helps you see if you're buying in an area with long-term potential, turning a simple purchase into a smart investment for your future.

Assess a Property's Value

Once you find a specific property, it’s time to determine if the price is fair. This is where you look at "comps," or what similar properties in the immediate area have sold for recently. A good real estate agent or land company can help you pull these. Beyond comps, consider the land’s unique features. Does it have road frontage? Is there access to electricity and water? Is the terrain flat and easy to build on, or is it rocky and sloped? A seemingly cheap property without utility access or with difficult topography can end up costing you much more in the long run.

Find the Best Time of Year to Buy

Believe it or not, the land market has seasons. Generally, things slow down in the late fall and winter. Fewer buyers are out looking, which means less competition and potentially more motivated sellers who might be willing to negotiate. This can be a great time to find a deal. On the flip side, viewing a property in the spring after heavy rains can reveal potential drainage issues you wouldn't see otherwise. There’s no single "best" time to buy, but being strategic and understanding these seasonal factors can give you an advantage in your search.

Finance Your Land Purchase

Figuring out how to pay for your land can feel like the biggest hurdle, but it’s more manageable than you might think. While it’s different from buying a house, you have several solid options to explore. The key is finding the path that fits your financial situation and your vision for the property. Most buyers follow one of two main routes: getting a loan from a traditional bank or working directly with the seller through owner financing. Each has its own set of rules and benefits.

Understanding your options ahead of time will save you a lot of stress and help you move forward with confidence. We’ll walk through the most common ways to finance a land purchase, from what banks look for to the flexibility of working with a seller. We'll also cover the essentials like down payments and interest rates so you know exactly what to expect. Think of this as your financial roadmap to land ownership.

Explore Traditional Loans

Getting a loan from a bank or credit union is often the first thing people think of. However, you should know that banks view raw land as a riskier investment than a house. Because there’s no home on the property to act as collateral, lenders are often more cautious. This means you’ll likely face stricter requirements. Be prepared for the bank to ask for a larger down payment—sometimes 20% or more—and you’ll probably see higher interest rates compared to a standard home mortgage. If you have a strong credit score and a solid financial history, this can still be a viable path, but it’s good to go in with realistic expectations.

Discover the Benefits of Owner Financing

Owner financing, also called seller financing, is a fantastic alternative that makes buying land much more accessible. In this setup, you skip the bank entirely and make payments directly to the seller over an agreed-upon period. This is an arrangement we specialize in at Eden Land Company because we believe in making land ownership possible for more people. The process is often faster and more flexible than a traditional loan, with terms that can be tailored to your needs. It’s a straightforward way to secure your dream property without the strict requirements of a bank. You can see how this works by exploring some of our available properties with owner financing options.

Prepare for the Down Payment

Regardless of how you finance your purchase, you’ll almost certainly need a down payment. For raw land, lenders want to see that you have some skin in the game. A down payment reduces the lender’s risk, which is why the required amount is often higher for land than for a home. While the exact percentage varies, planning to put down anywhere from 10% to 30% is a good rule of thumb. Start saving early and have your funds ready. When you speak with a lender or a seller offering financing, one of your first questions should be about their down payment requirement so you can plan accordingly.

Understand Interest Rates and Terms

The interest rate is a critical piece of your financing puzzle because it determines the total cost of your loan over time. As we’ve mentioned, interest rates for land loans are typically higher than for home mortgages to offset the lender’s risk. Don’t just focus on the rate, though. Pay close attention to the loan terms, including the length of the loan (the amortization period) and whether there are any penalties for paying it off early (a prepayment penalty). A shorter loan term will mean higher monthly payments but less interest paid overall, so find a balance that works for your budget.

Look into Alternative Financing

If a traditional loan or owner financing doesn't seem like the right fit, there are a few other avenues to consider. Government-backed programs can be a great option in certain situations. For example, the USDA Rural Development program offers loans to help people buy or build homes in rural areas, which can sometimes be bundled with a land purchase. If you plan to use the land for agricultural purposes, you might also qualify for a loan from the Farm Service Agency. These programs often come with favorable terms and lower down payment requirements, so they are definitely worth researching if your plans align with their goals.

Your Due Diligence Checklist

Buying land is an exciting step, but it’s important to do your homework before you sign on the dotted line. This process is called due diligence, and it’s all about making sure you know exactly what you’re getting. Think of it as your pre-purchase investigation—a way to uncover any potential issues that could turn your dream property into a headache. When you’re looking at undeveloped land, this step is non-negotiable. It protects your investment and ensures the land is right for your plans, whether you’re building a home, starting a small farm, or just securing a piece of Texas for yourself.

A reputable seller will be transparent and provide you with key documents, but it’s always smart to do your own independent verification. This checklist covers the essential steps to take. It might seem like a lot, but taking the time now will save you from expensive surprises down the road. By the end, you’ll have a complete picture of the property and can move forward with confidence.

Run a Title Search

Before you get too far, you need to confirm that the seller has the legal right to sell the property and that no one else has a claim to it. That’s where a title search comes in. A title company or real estate attorney will review public records to look for any hidden issues, like outstanding liens from previous owners, unpaid taxes, or easements that give others the right to use your land. The goal is to get a “clear title,” which means the property is free and clear of any ownership disputes. This is a critical step for a smooth transaction and gives you peace of mind that the land is truly yours.

Get a Property Survey

While you should always walk the land yourself, a professional property survey is the only way to know the official and legal boundaries of your plot. A licensed surveyor will physically mark the property lines so you know exactly where your land begins and ends. This is crucial for avoiding future disputes with neighbors over fences or driveways. A survey can also identify any encroachments—for instance, if a neighbor’s shed is accidentally on your property—and map out any easements that might affect where you can build. Getting a land survey is a smart investment that provides clarity and prevents costly problems later on.

Review Environmental Assessments

Understanding the land’s environmental condition is key to knowing if it’s suitable for your plans. An environmental assessment can help you check for a few important things. First, you’ll want to know about the soil quality, especially if you plan to garden, farm, or install a septic system. It’s also wise to check if the property is in a flood zone, as this can impact building requirements and insurance costs. Finally, look into any potential environmental hazards or protected habitats on the land. This information helps you confirm that the property is safe and buildable before you commit.

Check Zoning and Building Codes

Every county and city has rules about how land can be used. These are called zoning regulations, and they determine whether a property is designated for residential, agricultural, commercial, or other purposes. Before you buy, you must confirm that the land’s zoning matches your intentions. You can’t build a house on land zoned strictly for commercial use. You can find this information by contacting the local planning and zoning department. They can provide you with the specific zoning designation for the parcel you’re interested in and explain any restrictions that come with it. This simple check ensures your vision for the property is legally possible.

Understand Local Development Rules

Beyond general zoning, you’ll need to get familiar with the specific local rules for development. These regulations control what it takes to get permits for things like installing a well, putting in a septic system, or building a driveway. For example, there might be rules about how far a structure must be from the property line or restrictions on removing certain types of trees. These requirements can add unexpected costs and delays to your project, so it’s best to know them upfront. A quick call or visit to the local county permitting office can give you a clear understanding of the process, fees, and timeline for getting your land ready to use.

Calculate the True Cost of Ownership

The price on the listing is just your starting point. To truly understand what it takes to own a piece of land, you need to look beyond the purchase price and map out all the associated expenses. Thinking through these costs upfront saves you from surprises down the road and ensures your dream property doesn’t turn into a financial headache. From getting the land ready to build on to covering annual taxes, a complete budget is your best tool for a smooth and successful purchase. Let’s walk through the key expenses you’ll want to factor into your calculations so you can move forward with total confidence.

Budget for Development

If you’re buying raw, undeveloped land, you’re starting with a beautiful blank slate—but that slate needs some prep work. The biggest costs often come from development, which includes everything needed to make your land accessible and livable. You’ll need to think about building an access road or driveway, connecting to utilities like water and electricity, and installing a septic system if a sewer connection isn’t available. These aren’t small expenses; they can easily add up to tens of thousands of dollars. Creating a detailed land development budget early on will give you a realistic picture of your total investment.

Plan for Infrastructure

Beyond the main development tasks, there are other infrastructure costs to consider. Before you can build, you might need to clear trees, level the ground for a home site, and perform soil tests to ensure the ground is stable. You’ll also need to secure various permits from the county for things like construction, septic installation, and utility hookups. Each of these steps comes with a fee. It’s a good idea to contact the local county planning office where the property is located to get a clear list of requirements and associated costs. Planning for these items ensures your project stays on track and within budget.

Factor in Property Taxes

One cost that never goes away is property taxes. Even if your land is completely undeveloped and you have no immediate plans to build, you’ll still receive a tax bill every year. Property tax rates vary depending on the county and the assessed value of your land. Before you buy, you should find out the current tax rate for the area and get an estimate of what your annual payment will be. This is a recurring expense you’ll need to account for in your long-term budget, so it’s important to know what to expect from day one.

Prepare for Maintenance Costs

The good news about owning undeveloped land is that you won’t be fixing leaky roofs or broken appliances. However, that doesn’t mean it’s completely maintenance-free. Depending on the property, you may need to budget for tasks like mowing to keep vegetation under control, maintaining fences to mark your property lines, or clearing brush to reduce fire risk. While these costs are typically much lower than home maintenance, they are still part of the responsibility of land ownership. Factoring in a small annual budget for upkeep will help you keep your property in great shape.

Secure the Right Insurance

Finally, you’ll want to protect your new asset with the right insurance policy. Landowner’s liability insurance is essential, as it can protect you financially if someone is injured on your property. The cost is generally affordable, but it provides crucial peace of mind. It’s a good idea to talk with an insurance agent who has experience with rural properties to understand your options. They can help you find a policy that covers your specific needs, whether you plan to use the land for recreation, farming, or eventually building your dream home.

Seal the Deal: Smart Buying Strategies

You’ve found a piece of land that feels right, you’ve done your homework, and you’ve lined up your financing. Now you’re in the home stretch! This final phase is all about turning your dream into a reality by navigating the purchasing process with confidence. It might seem like there are a lot of moving parts, from making an offer to signing the final papers, but don’t worry. We’re going to break it down into clear, manageable steps.

Think of this stage as your final confirmation that everything is in order. It’s where you formalize your intentions, double-check the legal details, and make sure there are no last-minute surprises. Being organized and proactive here ensures a smooth transition to ownership. While every land purchase is unique, the core strategies remain the same: be informed, ask questions, and lean on professionals when you need to. With a smart approach, you’ll handle the closing process like a pro and be ready to start planning what’s next for your new property.

Negotiate Your Offer

Making an offer is your first official step toward buying the land. Your offer should be based on solid research, including the prices of similar properties in the area and the specific features of the plot you want. While the price is the main event, don't forget about the other terms, like the closing date or any contingencies. When you present your offer, be prepared to explain your reasoning. A well-researched offer is always more compelling. Remember, negotiation is a conversation, and the goal is to reach a fair agreement that works for everyone.

Use a Property Inspection Checklist

Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s crucial to complete your final checks. For undeveloped land, this "inspection" is less about the physical condition and more about the legal details. You’ll want to work with a title company to run a thorough title search. This process confirms the seller has the legal right to sell the property and uncovers any liens, claims, or easements that could affect your ownership or use of the land. It’s a non-negotiable step that protects you from future headaches and ensures the land you’re buying is free and clear.

Gather the Required Documents

Getting your paperwork in order ahead of time is one of the best ways to ensure a seamless closing. The main documents you’ll need are the fully executed purchase agreement, your photo ID, and proof of funds or your financing approval letter. Your lender or the title company will provide a detailed list of everything required from you. By having all your documents ready to go, you prevent last-minute scrambles and help keep the closing on schedule. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in creating a stress-free experience.

Understand Property Restrictions

Every property comes with a set of rules that govern how it can be used. Before you buy, you need to understand any restrictions that apply to your chosen plot. These can include local zoning ordinances, which dictate whether the land can be used for residential, commercial, or agricultural purposes. There may also be deed restrictions or covenants that limit things like the size of buildings or where you can place a driveway. Getting a copy of these rules and reading them carefully ensures your plans for the property are allowed.

Know the Steps to Closing

Closing is the final step where ownership of the land is officially transferred to you. Typically, you’ll meet at a title company’s office to sign the final paperwork, which includes the deed and mortgage documents, if applicable. You’ll also pay your closing costs and down payment at this time. Once everything is signed and the funds are transferred, the title company will record the new deed with the county. After that, it’s official—the land is yours! Companies that offer a straightforward buying process, like our available properties in Texas, can make this final step feel simple and exciting.

Spot the Red Flags Before You Buy

Finding a piece of land you love is an incredible feeling, but it’s important to let your head lead your heart in this process. Some properties look perfect on the surface but hide serious issues that can turn your dream into a nightmare. Knowing what to look for can save you from costly mistakes and ensure the land you buy is truly the right fit for your plans. Think of this as your pre-purchase inspection—a chance to uncover any potential problems before you sign on the dotted line. A little bit of caution now will pay off for years to come.

Lack of Legal Access

Imagine buying a beautiful plot of land only to find out you can't legally get to it. This is the reality of a "landlocked" property, which has no public road access. To reach your land, you'd have to cross a neighbor's property, and you need a legal right, called an easement, to do that. Without a recorded easement, you have no guaranteed access. Before you buy, carefully review the property survey and title report to confirm there is clear, legal access. If access relies on a private road or path, make sure a formal easement is in place and recorded with the county. This simple step ensures you can always get to your property without any trouble.

Restrictive Zoning

Every county and city has rules about how land can be used. These zoning regulations dictate what you can build, where you can build it, and even what kind of activities are allowed on your property. You might dream of building a tiny home, starting a small farm, or running a business from your property, but local zoning laws could prohibit it. Always check with the local planning and zoning department before you make an offer. Ask for the specific zoning classification of the property and a copy of the permitted uses. Don't just take the seller's word for it—verify it yourself to ensure your plans are feasible and won't be stopped by a rule you didn't know existed.

Incomplete Due Diligence

Failing to do your homework is one of the biggest risks when buying land. It’s your responsibility to investigate every aspect of the property to make sure it meets your needs. This process, known as due diligence, includes confirming utility access (water, electricity, septic), checking for any environmental concerns, and understanding the local permit requirements for building. You should also walk the property to check for issues like drainage problems or poor soil quality. Reputable sellers like Eden Land Company provide clear information on their available properties, but you should always complete your own checklist to be safe and ensure there are no surprises down the road.

Hidden Costs

The purchase price is just the beginning. Developing raw land comes with a lot of additional expenses that can quickly add up. You’ll need to budget for clearing trees, grading the land, and building an access road or driveway. If utilities aren't already at the property line, the cost to extend them can be substantial. Other potential expenses include soil testing (perk tests) for septic systems, surveying fees, and building permits. These "hidden" costs can easily turn an affordable piece of land into a major financial strain. Create a detailed budget for development before you buy to get a true picture of the total investment required.

Title and Ownership Issues

A clean title is essential for any real estate transaction. It’s the legal proof that the seller owns the property free and clear and has the right to sell it to you. A title search can uncover issues like outstanding liens from previous owners, unresolved boundary disputes, or existing easements that could limit your use of the land. Always work with a reputable title company or real estate attorney to conduct a thorough search and secure title insurance. This protects you from any future claims against your property and ensures your ownership is secure. Never skip this step, no matter how straightforward the sale seems. It’s your ultimate protection as a landowner.

Related Articles

• Buying Land in Texas

• Buying Hill Country Land for Sale: A 2025 Guide

• Land for Sale in Central Texas – Acreage & Lots | Eden Land Company

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I work with a local land company instead of just using a big online marketplace? Online sites are great for getting a general sense of the market, but a local company offers specialized knowledge you just can't find anywhere else. They understand the nuances of the area, from soil quality to future development plans. Plus, they often have properties that aren't listed publicly and can offer more flexible options, like owner financing, which simplifies the entire buying process.

Is owner financing a better option than a traditional bank loan? It really depends on your situation, but owner financing offers some major advantages, especially for raw land. Banks often have very strict requirements for land loans, including large down payments and high credit scores. Owner financing is typically more flexible and straightforward, allowing you to work directly with the seller to create terms that fit your budget. It can make land ownership accessible when a bank might say no.

What are the biggest "hidden" costs I should budget for after the purchase price? The most significant costs usually come from getting the land ready to use. This includes essentials like installing a septic system, drilling a well for water if city services aren't available, and running electricity to your property. You should also plan for the cost of building a driveway for access and clearing a portion of the land for your homesite. Getting quotes for these items beforehand is the best way to create a realistic budget.

The due diligence checklist seems long. What is the single most important step I can't afford to skip? While every step is important, you absolutely cannot skip the title search. This is the official check that confirms the seller has the legal right to sell the land and that there are no outstanding claims, liens, or ownership disputes tied to the property. A clear title is your guarantee that once you buy the land, it is truly yours without any legal baggage from the past.

I'm feeling a little overwhelmed. What's the very first thing I should do to start my land search? The best first step is to simply get clear on your vision and your budget. Before you even look at a single listing, decide what you want to do with the land—build a home, use it for recreation, or hold it as an investment. At the same time, figure out what you can comfortably afford for a down payment and monthly payments. This clarity will act as your compass and make every other step in the process much easier.