Real Estate Investing: How to Find Great Deals on Undeveloped Lots with Big Potential

Purchasing a plot of land can be one of the best investments to make. A landowner has great (but not unlimited) freedom in how to develop their plot, and land never expires so its potential is essentially infinite. That said, buying undeveloped or vacant land can be risky business, so read on to find tips on purchasing a plot.

Do Your Homework: Before You Get Onto The Land

Before anything else happens, figure out your priorities. Decide what you want the land for, what amenities and what location you want, what you’re looking for in terms of neighbors or local government, and, of course, know your budget. More specific questions will arise around taxes, fees,and permits for building, available utilities/water access but, first, just start with your ideal land plot and work backwards (and into reality) from there.

Do Your Due Diligence: On The Land Itself

Once you find a plot that fits your needs on paper, get out onto it. Walk the land with an eye on the topography (any unexpected hills or valleys? Is the ground solid/fertile/arable, depending on what you need?), neighboring properties, size and shape of the plot, and any other element that the walk brings to your senses (smell and hearing as well as sight). Ideally, do this walk in the fall, so there is no foliage hiding your view of the property and what’s around it.

Don’t Despair: It’s Costly, But There Are Deals Out There

Remember that developing the land will incur costs too. Budget for as many foreseeable costs as you can, including a land survey, well/utility installation, legal fees, land clearing, landscaping, road construction and others. That said there are places you can look at for deals on the initial land purchase, including property lots for sale (which are cheaper the farther they are from major cities, road access, and already-connected utilities) or bank-owned plots. For those, you can talk to your real estate agent about asking local banks for lists of their foreclosed properties, which tend to be cheaper as banks look to sell them off.

Don’t Be Afraid To Ask: Reaching Out To Experts

Finally, talk to people. Ask locals about the neighborhood, previous uses of the land, potential surprises (like calm paths that turn into snowmobile trails in the winter). Connect with professionals in the local health department, zoning and building departments, accountancy and other areas of development for in-depth answers to your municipal questions.

But remember: while you will need to talk with many professionals in your due diligence, let me be your first point of contact – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

6028 E Joan De Arc Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,850,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,400 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787338

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SELLER FINANCING AVAILABLE!!! This stunning TURN KEY single-story home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and an open floor plan filled with natural light. Enjoy the luxury of two master suites on opposite ends of the home, a fully upgraded kitchen with high-end appliances, and a backyard paradise featuring a new sports court for basketball and pickleball, a pool, spa, outdoor dining with a bbq kitchen area & TV, and tons of space to expand or add a casita. Located in a quiet neighborhood near great restaurants and shopping, this home comes fully furnished and ready for you to enjoy. Paradise Valley School District A rare find in North Scottsdale—don't miss out! **Seller Financing with a minimum of 25% down (serious inquiries only please) $1,850,000

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8530 E Pepper Tree Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$1,850,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,819 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784607

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing Opportunity - Builder's Dream - cul-de-sac lot in highly desirable central Scottsdale neighborhood comprised of large lots w/ custom renovated and new-build construction. Spacious home with open floor plan features 3,819 SF on 37,800 SF Lot, 4 BR + Den, 3.5 BA, 16' vaulted wood ceilings, skylights, dual fireplace, 3-car garage w/ storage closets, ±1,000 SF covered rear patio, pool, semi-circular driveway, RV gate, attractive landscaping, and surplus land area w/ potential for ancillary expansion (i.e. ADU/guest, office, sport court, play zone, RV/boat storage, etc.) Located near Pima and Indian Bend Rds. Excellent proximity to public/charter/private schools and rapidly growing retail/hospitality/entertainment district w/ Loop 101 access. Built in '82 with NO HOA, Sold ''AS IS' AC Units were updated in 2019 and 2021 PROFESSIONAL PICS TO COME SHORTLY.

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8497 E Montello Road Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,850,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,517 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765966

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience the perfect blend of elegance and functionality in this meticulously designed home. The open floor plan creates a seamless flow between living spaces, making it ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. Enjoy vaulted ceilings and beautiful porcelain wood flooring throughout, with no interior steps leading to your backyard oasis. The gourmet kitchen boasts stunning quartz countertops, a custom travertine mosaic backsplash, and a built-in breakfast bar featuring a unique copper sink and faucet. Equipped with a Thermador double oven, gas cooktop, stainless-steel appliances, and a spacious walk-in pantry, this kitchen effortlessly connects to the family room, complete with a cozy gas fireplace. Retreat to the expansive primary bedroom, which offers direct access to the backyard. The luxurious primary bath features a large walk-in shower, a soaking tub, a dual vanity with maple cabinets, and a generous walk-in closet with double doors. Each additional bedroom has its own private bathroom for added convenience. Step outside to your backyard sanctuary, where you can unwind while enjoying breathtaking sunset and mountain views. The rooftop deck provides 360-degree vistas and is accessible via a spiral staircase. The outdoor space also features a sparkling pool with a grotto fountain, a sunken swim-up bar, and a 6-hole synthetic grass putting green. Complete with a covered patio and an inviting seating area with a gas firepit, this home is perfect for relaxation and entertaining alike.

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10592 E Horizon Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,850,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,544 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751378

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

FULL GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE!!! Beautiful Hacienda home at Desert Mountain. The home offers a wonderful courtyard entry with fireplace that leads to an open great room floor plan. There are two en-suites in the home and a separate loft complete with a full bath. The kitchen has dual Viking ovens, Viking Range and Viking refrigerator, microwave and generous sized island that opens up to the great room that is ideal for entertaining. The owner's suite features two closets, soaking tub and fireplace. The Hacienda Village has a community pool, spa, and exercise room.

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37031 N Mirabel Club Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,850,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,366 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751900

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Great home in the gated Mirabel Club. Situated on a quiet premium homesite with beautiful landscaping surrounding the home. The open kitchen with top of the line appliances has been tastefully updated and overlooks the great room. From the great room you enter a large covered outdoor patio area with pool, spa, fire pit and built in BBQ. Enjoy great views of mountains, natural desert and stunning Arizona sunsets. Additionally the home offers two bedrooms both ensuite, den and half bath on the main level and an attached loft with bedroom, full bath and outdoor patio.

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10477 N 101st Place Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,850,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,196 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771580

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

CAPTIVATING WATER/MOUNTAIN VIEWS! Located in highly sought after gated ''Island at Scottsdale Ranch''. Beautifully renovated with the finest finishes & upgrades. Popular Marquesa model offers 1 bedroom/office down w/full bath; upstairs you will find a spacious primary bedroom w/balcony & spiral staircase to pool area overlooking Lake Serena & mountains. Primary has 2 walk-in closets, new walk-in shower/tub. 2 generous guest rooms up with bath. Designer kitchen w/new cabinetry, Jenn-Air appliances, Wolf Induction cooktop that any Chef will love! Built-in bar for entertaining. Living room w/ soaring ceilings and romantic gas fireplace. NEW ROOF w/extended 10 year warranty. Cozy family room plus office/sitting room. Fabulous entertaining backyard w/pool & heated spa, private boat dock/boat with amazing indoor/outdoor living at its finest all on an over-sized lot. Pool recently resurfaced with new cool decking. Built-in BBQ on side patio convenient to the kitchen. Fresh epoxy floor in 2 car garage. Unique misting system (for bugs) covers the entire backyard so you can enjoy evenings sitting out. THIS IS A MUST SEE ... ONE-OF-A-KIND HOME! DON'T LET IT GET AWAY!

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23325 S 132nd Street Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,850,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,462 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6775551

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This County Island custom home offers the perfect fusion of a contemporary luxury home with the ''gentleman's ranchette'' behind a walled-off area to the back of the property. There is an attached 3/car garage & a free-standing large Shop/RV garage. Home is very sophisticated with the latest in high-end finishes & appliances. Enjoy the majestic great room & all beds/baths that are ensuite. Note the sleek, modern office with ample storage, plus a spacious flex room, & a huge storage room. You will love the kitchen that a chef would only dream of. Each room controls its own mini-split AC. Home is an entertainer's delight with 3 large patios, a pool house & pool with fire pots & the list goes on. Please see list of options included in Documents. All TVs convey. Lots of privacy here to enjoy

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4432 E Camelback Road Unit 120 Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,850,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,840 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6713420

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Welcome to #120 at 4432 N Camelback Road, a meticulously renovated, move-in-ready townhome located in the coveted Guard Gated community of The Village at Camelback. This fabulously curated property features a spacious floor-plan with an inviting open kitchen and living area that wonderfully lends itself to entertaining. The home offers three spacious bedrooms, including a master bedroom with a flex space that can be used as an office/sitting area, a den, two full baths, two powder rooms, and abundant storage throughout. Here you'll find exceptional ample outdoor living spaces including an expanded private side yard, covered patio, and backyard with a spa-perfect for relaxing, and two balconies. Enjoy views from this natural light-filled home. Recent renovations include new marble tile floors and shower in the master bath, new carpeting in the upstairs bedrooms, an updated skylight, and new barn-door entry into the master bedroom, updated guest bathroom, low-e windows and screens, and new washer and dryer in the laundry room. The entire interior has been repainted, custom window treatments, new designer light fixtures, and extensive landscaping enhance the home's appeal. Additional features include built-in bookcases, new pantry, updated closet doors, and storage closets in the garage. Discreetly tucked away behind The Village Tennis & Fitness Club, convenience is paramount here with the ease of walkable access to a plethora of local amenities including the new Global Ambassador, AJ's, Steak 44, hiking trails, and much more, offering the best of Phoenix living. Minutes away from Paradise Valley, Scottsdale, and the Sky Harbor International Airport. Come see this beautiful townhome and experience unparalleled comfort and convenience in an unbeatable location for yourself!

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15418 E Stardust Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,850,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

5,144 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6653088

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Got Toys? This resort style home is for You!! This spacious and well-maintained home offers the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. The open floorplan with high ceilings and large windows flood the interior with natural light. The gourmet kitchen with subzero refrigerators, dual wall ovens, dual drawer dishwasher, granite countertops and ample storage is a culinary enthusiasts delight! A 36 bottle wine refrigerator, mini frig plus separate ice maker at the bar is a perfect place to unwind and reflect. Step outside to the huge and private backyard with pool, spa, grotto, waterfall and water slide! The primary bedroom is a true retreat, boasting a luxurious en suite bath with his and her walk in closets. The additional bedrooms are generously sized. On the main floor, one is currently being used as a home theater. The other bedroom en suite has a built in daybed and built in desk making it a perfect home office. Jack and Jill bedrooms upstairs, both with walk in closets, are a perfect private area for guests and/or family members. Did I mention the 43' x 26.6' 4 car garage? Ample height for car lifts and rv's. It also has an rv gate and paver slab. This is an incredible home at an incredible price. Don't miss the opportunity to call this exquisite house your home!! Please see documents tab for a complete list of amenities, upgrades and updates on this incredible home.

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37887 N Boulder View Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,850,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

4,002 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753434

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience luxury living in Boulder Heights, a prestigious community nestled in the picturesque landscapes of North Scottsdale. This custom-built residence offers an unparalleled blend of sophistication, comfort, and breathtaking views that epitomize the essence of Arizona living - all at an elevated vantage point of 3,000 feet. Carefully curated, this one-owner home features a desirable great room floor plan, three bedrooms & three full bathrooms in the main home, plus a detached casita complete with its own kitchenette. Enter the home through your private, gated courtyard - featuring a gas fireplace & water feature - to your grand foyer with clerestory windows. Indulge in the ultimate entertainment experience with a wet bar equipped with a 578-bottle wine humidor, perfect for hosting unforgettable gatherings with friends and family. The inviting chef's kitchen boasts a Viking Professional appliance package, double ovens, granite & quartz countertops, a large walk-in pantry, and solid-wood cabinetry. The primary retreat features a sitting area, an oversized walk-in closet, and a spa-like bathroom with a jetted tub & luxurious walk-in shower. Soaring 14-foot ceilings in the main living areas, 18-foot barrel vault ceilings in the hallway, 24-inch travertine stone flooring, and tasteful chandeliers & fixtures throughout exude grandeur and style. Step outside to discover a private oasis featuring a heated saltwater pool and spa, over 1,200 sq/ft of covered patio space with misters & space heaters, a BBQ area with a pre-plumbed gas line, and plenty of yard space - perfect for year-round relaxation and enjoyment. The oversized three-car garage with epoxy flooring & built-in cabinetry ensures plenty of room for your vehicles and storage needs. Beyond the confines of this exquisite property, residents can immerse themselves in North Scottsdale's renowned lifestyle - high-end shopping, gourmet dining experiences, world-class golf courses, and outdoor adventures - all just moments away from your doorstep. Experience the allure of North Scottsdale living in this exquisite Boulder Heights home, where luxury meets tranquility against the backdrop of Arizona's stunning natural beauty. Welcome home.

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512 E Mesa Vista Lane Mesa, AZ 85203

$1,849,900

5 Beds

4 Baths

4,409 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6769646

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Frank Lloyd Wright inspired landmark estate built in 1968, revived in 2024! Mid century modern design, 1+ acre, lush, hillside property boasting incredible Mountain View's. The home is masterfully designed and features 4 bedrooms, 4 Bath, + full gen-suite/ casita with its own kitchen. Stunning interior courtyard, 3 car det. garage, multiple carports and other parking spaces. Centrally located in NW Mesa, only 15 min from PHX airport, Scottsdale, Tempe, Spring training fields nearby, easy freeway access to 202/101, and many amazing nature experiences close by. You will see the pride of ownership in this beautifully manicured neighborhood with NO HOA. This property can be sold fully furnished, and would make a great vacation rental, second home, or primary residence.

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11693 E Parkview Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,849,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,879 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769647

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Love at first sight! This beautiful remodeled/redesigned Troon home has incredible views of the McDowell Mountains and is located on a quiet cul-de-sac street. Incredible kitchen offers two-tone custom cabinetry w/glass inserts, 48'' commercial gas range, classy quartz counters & backsplash, and enormous island that opens to huge great room. Soaring 12' ceilings with recessed lighting in all rooms, smooth texture interior walls, all new 8' interior doors, new 16' slider, and gorgeous 12 x 59 wood-like porcelain tile flooring throughout. Resort like backyard has 1500 sf of new Ivory Travertine pavers, RV gate/parking, new pebble tec finish and tile on pool, artificial turf, new BBQ island, jacuzzi with new stone and outdoor fireplace. 2 brand new AC units and new roof underlayment.

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