Land Selling Checklist

11 Essential Steps to Sell Vacant Land

Building a land-selling checklist can be a complex process, but landowners can take several essential steps to ensure a successful sale:

• They should obtain a survey and verify the property lines to ensure accurate representation to potential buyers.
• They should address zoning issues and ensure all necessary permits are in place. It is also essential to market the land effectively, including staging and presenting the property in a visually appealing way to potential buyers.
• Pricing the land accurately and negotiating with potential buyers are critical steps.

By following these essential steps, landowners can increase the likelihood of a successful sale and achieve their desired outcome.

1. Locate the deed

Locating the deed for a land-selling checklist to a property is an essential step for any owner or buyer. The deed is a legal document that proves ownership and provides information about the property's history, including any liens or mortgages.

To locate the deed, property owners can start by land selling, checking their local county or city records office, which usually maintains property records. They can also search online using public records databases or hire a title search company to conduct a more thorough search. It is essential to locate the deed before selling or transferring ownership of the property to ensure a smooth and legally binding transaction.

2. Determine who can legally sell the land

Determining who can legally sell the land is essential before beginning the land-selling checklist process. All owners must agree to the sale and sign any necessary documents if the property is jointly owned. Suppose a corporation or other legal entity owns the property. In that case, checking the company's bylaws or operating agreements is essential to determine who can legally sell the property. If the property is part of an estate, the executor or administrator of the estate must have the legal authority to sell the property. Landowners can avoid potential legal issues and ensure a smooth and legally binding sale process by ensuring that the proper legal authority is in place.

3. Find the address or parcel number

Finding the address or parcel number for the land-selling checklist is crucial when buying or selling a piece of land. The address is the property's physical location and is necessary for identification, legal purposes, and a land-selling checklist.

The parcel number is a unique identifier the local government assigns to the property that aids in tracking and organizing property ownership and tax information.

The owner can look up the address in their property records, tax bill or deed, or land-selling checklist.

The parcel number can be found by checking the owner's tax bill and property records or contacting the local government's property assessor's office. Knowing the address and parcel number aids in the smooth and accurate sale or purchase of land.

4. Find the legal description

Finding the legal description of a piece of land is crucial when buying or selling it. The legal description is a written description that identifies the boundaries and location of the property, as well as any easements or encumbrances.

This information is required to ensure that the intended property is delivered to the buyer and that the seller has a clear land-selling checklist title to sell it.

The buyer or seller can check the property's deed, survey, or other official documents to find the legal description. They may also obtain this information from the local government's property records office. Having the legal description on hand helps to ensure a smooth and legally binding sale or purchase of the land.

5. Order a survey

Ordering a survey is essential in buying or selling a piece of land in the land-selling checklist. A survey is a detailed map that outlines the property's boundaries, dimensions, and features.

It can help ensure that the property lines are accurate and that there are no encroachments or disputes with neighboring properties.

A survey can also reveal any potential issues with the property, such as zoning violations, flood zones, or encumbrances.

The buyer or seller can hire a licensed surveyor to conduct the survey, and the cost may vary depending on the size and complexity of the property. Having a survey done can provide valuable information and help ensure a smooth and legally binding sale or purchase of the land.

6. Check if property tax is owed

Checking if property taxes are owed is crucial in buying or selling a piece of land. The local government assesses property taxes which the property owner must pay. Property taxes that are owed can cause delays or legal issues in the sale or purchase of land.

To determine whether or not property taxes are owed, the buyer or seller can contact the local tax assessor's office or search for property tax records online. If taxes are owed, the buyer or seller must ensure they are paid before finalizing the sale. This step aids in the completion of a smooth and legally binding transaction.

7. Check what utilities are available

Checking what utilities are available is essential when buying or selling a piece of land on the land-selling checklist.

The availability of utilities, such as water, electricity, and gas, can affect the property's value and potential uses. The buyer or seller can contact the local utility companies or the government planning department to determine what utilities are available on the property.

If utilities are unavailable, the buyer may incur additional costs to connect to the nearest utility lines or consider alternative energy sources.

By checking what utilities are available, the buyer or seller can ensure that they are aware of any limitations or costs associated with the property and make informed decisions about the sale or purchase.

8. Check the current zoning

Checking the current zoning of a piece of land is crucial when buying or selling it in the land-selling checklist. Zoning regulations dictate how the land can be used for residential, commercial, agricultural, or industrial purposes.

Ensuring the current zoning aligns with the property's intended use is crucial. The buyer or seller can check the local government's planning department or zoning board to determine the property's zoning classification and applicable regulations.

If the zoning is inappropriate for the intended use, the buyer may need to apply for a zoning change or variance. Checking the current zoning helps to ensure that the property can be legally used as intended and helps to avoid potential legal issues.

9. Review any deed restrictions

Reviewing deed restrictions is crucial when buying or selling a piece of land in the land-selling checklist. Deed restrictions are limitations or conditions placed on the property by the previous owner or the local government.

These restrictions can impact the property's use, maintenance, or appearance. The buyer or seller can examine the deed and any associated documents to see if there are any deed restrictions.

If there are restrictions, the buyer or seller should ensure they understand and comply.

Failing to comply with deed restrictions can result in legal disputes or financial penalties. Reviewing deed restrictions helps to ensure that the property can be used and maintained as intended and helps to avoid potential legal issues.

10. List what is being conveyed with the land

Listing what is being conveyed with the land is crucial when selling or buying a piece of land in the land-selling checklist.

It is essential to clarify what the sale includes, such as buildings, fixtures, easements, or mineral rights.

The buyer or seller can review the property's deed, title, and associated documents to determine what is being conveyed with the land.

It should also be listed if the property includes any additional structures or improvements, such as fences, wells, or septic systems.

Listing what is being conveyed with the land helps to ensure that both the buyer and seller understand the terms of the sale and avoid any misunderstandings or disputes in the future.

11. Find the property's value

Finding the property's value is critical when buying or selling a piece of land in the land-selling checklist.

It helps to determine a fair price for the land and ensures that both the buyer and seller receive a reasonable deal.

There are several ways to find the property's value, such as hiring a professional appraiser, comparing the property to similar properties in the area, or using online valuation tools.

The value of the land can be affected by various factors, such as location, zoning, utilities, and market trends.

By finding the property's value, the buyer and seller can ensure that they make informed decisions and negotiate a fair price for the land in the land-selling checklist.

Selling land for cash

Selling land for cash can be a straightforward transaction that allows the seller to receive a lump sum of money in exchange for the land.

Cash sales can appeal to buyers who want to avoid the time and complexity of obtaining financing or to sellers who need to liquidate their assets quickly.

When selling land for cash, it is essential to ensure that the buyer is financially capable of making the purchase and that the sale is legally binding.

The seller may also need to consider any tax implications of the sale and ensure they receive fair market value for the land. Selling land for cash can be a convenient way to liquidate assets and access immediate funds.