First-Time Land Buyer? What You Should Know Before Buying Land

"As a first-time land buyer, you'll want to determine how you plan to use the land. Are you buying land to build a home ? Or are you planning to make it a recreational area? Zoning requirements will differ depending on how you use the land. For example, you'll need to consider the property's access and zoning if you're building a home. Some areas also have HOA rules or CC&Rs that limit what you can build and how you can use the land."

"Knowing what you intend to build on the land or not can also help determine how much acreage you should look for. You'll want to consider the land's condition, whether it's suitable to build on, and isn't prone to flooding. Checking FEMA flood maps or county floodplain data can give you a clearer picture. First-time land buyer loans Due diligence for a first-time land buyer When buying land, there's additional due diligence and factors to consider."

First-time land buyers should decide intended land use—building, recreation, or other—to determine zoning, HOA/CC&R restrictions, acreage needs, and access requirements. Building plans require evaluating terrain, utilities, water availability, flood risk, and suitable sites. Loan options vary; buyers may need a land loan, a construction loan, or both depending on plans. Expect extra upfront costs for surveys, title searches, environmental testing, and other due diligence. Work with an experienced real estate agent to navigate local regulations, easements, and flood zones. Use FEMA flood maps and county floodplain data when assessing flood risk before purchasing.

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