MAXIMIZE Vacant Land Returns

Here are a couple of tips for vacant land... I think many people overlook the potential of vacant property and thus, it may be easier to find good deals, motivated sellers, and, frequently, even OWNER CARRY financing.

Location-- is is suitable for a home site?
Topography-- Flat, gentle, steep? How much of each?
Utilities-- what's already there? How far away are the stubs for water, power, sewer, and telephone?
Zoning-- get the zoning from the county so you know what can be put on the property. Is there lot split potential? Is there a neighbor that might be interested in a boundary adjustment?
Path of progress-- is this out in the back woods or are they building a strip mall next year? Your local planning commission meetings a great source for free education.
View-- always a plus
Soil and geological... very important for farmland, also relevant if the property needs a lot of grading
Parcel pluses and minuses... are there big trees; babbling brooks, corner lot, paved road access, a water well, etc?
Easements... how many? Where are they located on the property?

Potential uses:
Home? Commercial? Subdivision? Farmland? Farm Stand?

Possible ways to get revenue from the property: Parking lot;Farm or farm stand; RV or boat storage; put in a mobile home to rent out; rent it as horse property; let someone put up a billboard or cellular reception; let a tree service or backhoe company park their vehicles there.

Just a few ideas to get you thinking about the possibilities.