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

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

8020 E Del Laton Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,475,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,000 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766343
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This is the home you have been waiting for! Completely reconceived with euro-modern design elements in the sought-after McCormick Ranch area! Entry wows with a tongue and groove ceiling, custom-designed frosted glass door entry, and a lovely, paved front sitting area for experiencing the beautiful AZ sunsets. Enjoy the simplicity of a Eurocentric kitchen design style with exquisite flat slab quartz, mixed wood elements, and sleek modern cabinets with under-lighting for added ambiance. Appliances that thrill any seasoned chef, and a glass-encased wine closet for the wine connoisseur to show off their prized collection. Striking custom elements set this home apart from all others, from lighted niches, French-inspired glass barn doors, and a marble floor-to-ceiling linear fireplace to enjoy quiet evenings or entertain guests. The extended glass-enclosed patio adds additional entertaining space and looks out to the large lush yard with a sparkling pool. Close to parks, bike trails, coffee shops, restaurants, and shopping. Don't miss out!

26441 N Trails End -- Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,475,000
3 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,444 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768882
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Views. Views. Views. Perfect location on the Quail Run golf course with expansive fairway panoramas. Contemporary design with many architectural enhancements. (Please see Virtual Tour under Photos Tab). Huge family room with convenient, bright and open kitchen for easy entertaining. Family room opens to patios and the great outdoors. Three bedrooms and four full baths plus a powder room. Huge laundry/hobbies room. Office with built-in cabinets. Full three car garage with built in cabinets. Rio Verde is a planned community for active adults over 55. Golf, tennis, swimming, hiking, biking, fresh clean air, starry nights in the friendliest golf community in Arizona. Come enjoy the fun

5485 W Bruno Canyon Drive Prescott, AZ 86305

$1,475,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,608 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773967
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Luxurious custom home on a .80-acre corner lot with captivating Granite Mountain views. This impeccable 3-bedroom plus office offers high-end finishes throughout and is located near the clubhouse. The exterior boasts upgraded landscaping, a front fenced courtyard, an extended rear patio, a gas fire pit, and a large covered patio. Inside, enjoy a spacious kitchen with custom cabinets, GE Profile appliances, and a walk-in pantry. The primary suite features a sliding door to the patio, a walk-in shower, soaking tub, and direct access to the laundry room. Plus, an oversized 3-car garage with a sauna. Talking Rock is a gated private community for members only. Amenities include: award winning Jay Morrish designed Golf Course, The Ranch House restaurant and bar, Coop's Coffee House fitness center, bocce, pickle ball courts, tennis court, pool and dog park.

3916 E Encanto Street Mesa, AZ 85205

$1,475,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,982 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780417
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Luxury living in Trovita Estates at its finest! This gorgeous residence is in one of Mesa's most prestigious communities! You'll be welcomed by an exquisite curb appeal complemented by stone accents, a carefully manicured landscape, 4 car garage, RV gate, and pavers. Understated elegance & subtle modernity seamlessly mix in this breathtaking open floor plan showcasing tall ceilings, recessed lighting, custom palette, and wood-plank tile flooring. The spacious living room features a delightful wagon wheel chandelier, a gas fireplace, and window seats. The multi-sliding glass doors connect indoor and outdoor living, promoting easy entertaining and quick access to your own private backyard paradise featuring a relaxing pool and sport court.

8028 E Vista Canyon Street Mesa, AZ 85207

$1,475,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,690 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6780826
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover unparalleled Valley views in the prestigious Las Sendas community! This 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath, single-level gem spans 3,690 sq. ft. and offers a spacious 0.328-acre lot with a 3-car garage. Experience Arizona's breathtaking sunsets from your private backyard retreat, complete with sweeping mountain and city light vistas, highlighting the beauty of the Phoenix skyline. An elegant gated courtyard introduces you to a thoughtfully designed split floorplan with seamless indoor-outdoor flow. The expansive backyard is an entertainer's dream, featuring a pristine pool and spa with LED lighting, fire pots, water features, a raised seating area with a gas firepit, and a putting green with stunning Red Mountain views. Luxurious travertine pavers, a...CONTINUE READING... ...misting system, and motorized shade screens provide ultimate comfort, while a sunken outdoor kitchen with a Viking grill, fridge, ice maker, and poolside bar seating elevates the experience. The side yard offers a grassy area for pets or play, alongside fruit trees for added charm. Inside, enjoy soaring ceilings, custom coffer detailing, plantation shutters, and two cantera fireplaces. An additional room serves perfectly as an office or bonus space, and the secluded owner's suite is a true retreat with its cozy fireplace, spa-like bath, and expansive walk-in closet. The gourmet kitchen boasts maple cabinetry, a large island, granite counters, and high-end Jenn-Air Noir Series appliances. The 3-car tandem garage includes a bay with over-height ceilings and a 220V outlet for easy car charging, ideal for extra storage or 'toys.' Las Sendas offers top-tier amenities including award-winning golf, miles of trails, tennis, pickleball, pools, parks, a community restaurant, and a fitness center. Situated near top-rated schools, major freeways, airports, and outdoor recreation like hiking and lakes, this home is a rare find with access to both natural beauty and city conveniences.

6305 N 10th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85013

$1,475,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,680 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750076
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SELLER OFFERING 5.75% FINANCING RATE FOR 30 DAYS. COME SEE THIS GORGEOUS NEW CONSTRUCTION - CHOOSE YOUR HOME NOW. Blue Sky Homes are 50% MORE energy efficient than a standard new build and Energy Star / Indoor AirPlus Certified for cost savings and a significantly healthier home for you and your family. WELCOME TO INDIGO at CASA AZUL - We are a Newly Constructed 12 home subdivision exuding state of the art smart home features, notable sustainability with the intent of encouraging community and serenity. This 4 bedroom , 3 1/2 bathroom home offers upgrades and amenities you won't find from any other new home builder Aside from our custom interior design features and highly desirable family friendly floor plans, we proudly offer all of the following upgrades in all of our Casa Azul homes. 16' Sliding Glass Doors / Vaulted Ceilings / Smart Home Control Center Tablet / Smart lock & Keyless Entry / Smart Thermostat / Smart Home Pre-wiring for Complete Home Synthesis / Quartz Countertops & Custom Cabinetry / Energy Star Appliances / Oversized Bathrooms & Bedrooms / Covered Back Patios / Lifestyle Features / Serene Backyards / Electric Vehicle Charging Outlet / ENERGY STAR Certified / Indoor AirPLUS Certified / 3rd Party Audited Energy & HERS Score Rating / Spray foam insulation / Insulated Garage & Attic / EPA Water sense Toilets, Faucets, & Showers / LED Lighting /Insulated Owner's Suite for Efficiency & Sound / No VOC paint / Low VOC Engineered Flooring. Centrally located and close to all of the best restaurants and schools Arizona has to offer ... welcome to your new home!

10613 E Diffraction Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$1,475,000
6 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,704 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6663410
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This BEAUTIFUL home w/CASITA is OVERFLOWING w/DESIGNER upgrades!! GOURMET kitchen w/granite countertops, HUGE island w/sink, tiled backsplash, 42'' cabinets + stainless appliance suite w/wall ovens! Open concept great room w/GORGEOUS built-in entertainment center w/STONE gas FIREPLACE! PRIVATE owner's suite w/sitting room + ensuite bath, BIG walk-in shower + soaking tub! Separate den! Loft! Media room! CASITA w/kitchen, bedroom, living room, bath, laundry + separate entrance! SO many living options in this multi generation home! FANTASTIC backyard OASIS w/built-in swimming pool w/waterfall, fire features, pergola w/sunken kitchen + swim up seating/counter, gas fire pit, pavers/faux grass + covered porch & balcony! This is true LUXURY LIVING! Located in award winning EASTMARK! WELCOME HOME

9381 E Vah Ki Inn Road Coolidge, AZ 85128

$1,475,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
3,241 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6672171
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A unique luxury horse property that offers both a serene lifestyle and an exciting investment opportunity. 12 irrigated acres with a custom fully remodeled 3-bed, 2-bath home that seamlessly blends modern luxury with rustic charm. The interior has custom wood flooring, marble countertops and fireplaces throughout. The estate doesn't stop at the main house. A cozy 2-bed 1-bath guest house provides comfortable accommodations, while an 8-bed bunk house awaits your creative touch to transform it to additional living space or unique rental opportunity. 8 fully covered 30x15 stalls, complete with a tack room, lighted arena equipped with an automatic roping chute. This property has tons of potential to provide you income or enjoy as your own cowboy paradise.

6323 N 10th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85013

$1,475,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,680 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769981
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SELLER OFFERING 5.75% FINANCING RATE FOR 30 DAYS. COME SEE THIS GORGEOUS NEW CONSTRUCTION - CHOOSE YOUR HOME NOW. Blue Sky Homes are 50% MORE energy efficient than a standard new build and Energy Star / Indoor AirPlus Certified for cost savings and a significantly healthier home for you and your family. WELCOME TO PACIFICA at CASA AZUL - We are a Newly Constructed 12 home subdivision exuding state of the art smart home features, notable sustainability with the intent of encouraging community and serenity. This 4 bedroom , 3 1/2 bathroom homes offers upgrades and amenities you won't find from any other new home builder Aside from our custom interior design features and highly desirable family friendly floor plans, we proudly offer all of the following upgrades in all of our Casa Azul homes .. 16' Sliding Glass Doors / Vaulted Ceilings / Smart Home Control Center Tablet / Smart lock & Keyless Entry / Smart Thermostat / Smart Home Pre-wiring for Complete Home Synthesis / Quartz Countertops & Custom Cabinetry / Energy Star Appliances / Oversized Bathrooms & Bedrooms / Covered Back Patios / Lifestyle Features / Serene Backyards / Electric Vehicle Charging Outlet / ENERGY STAR Certified / Indoor AirPLUS Certified / 3rd Party Audited Energy & HERS Score Rating / Spray foam insulation / Insulated Garage & Attic / EPA Water sense Toilets, Faucets, & Showers / LED Lighting /Insulated Owner's Suite for Efficiency & Sound / No VOC paint / Low VOC Engineered Flooring. Centrally located and close to all of the best restaurants and schools Arizona has to offer ... welcome to your new home!

10248 E San Salvador Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,475,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,798 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765057
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautifully remodeled Scottsdale Ranch home offers the perfect blend of modern luxury, thoughtful design, and a welcoming atmosphere. Step inside and fall in love with the light and bright open floor plan, complemented by luxury finishes and spacious rooms. The recent 2022 remodel spared no details, featuring new roofing, windows, doors, HVAC, and a water heater—making this home completely turnkey and ready for you to enjoy. The guest casita (br 5 plus bath) featuring its own backyard entrance, completely independent from the main house, ensures privacy for you and your guests. The multiple outdoor spaces are perfect for alfresco dining, entertaining, sunbathing by the pool, or enjoying a cozy moment with a good book The neighborhood offers an array of community amenities, including an extensive trail system, activities organized by the HOA like food trucks and movies, and even boat rentals on Lake Serena. You'll love the convenient access to the gym, dentist, medical facilities, and all the best spots in Scottsdaleincluding Old Town and Fashion Square.

22222 N 36th Way Phoenix, AZ 85050

$1,475,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,507 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6784225
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
RARE Opportunity in highly sought after area - Resort style backyard, remodeled kitchen, huge lot. Be prepared to fall in love with this beautiful forever home! Located in the prestigious Aviano at Desert Ridge community, this home boasts an incredible position near parks and the Aviano clubhouse. It provides so much flexibility with living spaces--4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, office, theater room, and workout room with stone flooring throughout. 2 carport and 3 car garage. The primary suite is absolutely gorgeous including a private roof top deck and extra custom closet for 200+ shoes. Gourmet kitchen w/ brand new ss appliances, butler's pantry, breakfast nook, and granite countertops. Backyard is an absolute oasis with a built in BBQ, gas log fireplace, dining area, large

6314 N 10th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85013

$1,475,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,703 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769947
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SELLER OFFERING 5.75% FINANCING RATE FOR 30 DAYS. COME SEE THIS GORGEOUS NEW CONSTRUCTION - CHOOSE YOUR HOME NOW. Blue Sky Homes are 50% MORE energy efficient than a standard new build and Energy Star / Indoor AirPlus Certified for cost savings and a significantly healthier home for you and your family. WELCOME TO CIELO at CASA AZUL - We are a Newly Constructed 12 home subdivision exuding state of the art smart home features, notable sustainability with the intent of encouraging community and serenity. This 4 bedroom , 3 1/2 bathroom homes offers upgrades and amenities you won't find from any other new home builder Aside from our custom interior design features and highly desirable family friendly floor plans, we proudly offer all of the following upgrades in all of our Casa Azul homes... 16' Sliding Glass Doors / Vaulted Ceilings / Smart Home Control Center Tablet / Smart lock & Keyless Entry / Smart Thermostat / Smart Home Pre-wiring for Complete Home Synthesis / Quartz Countertops & Custom Cabinetry / Energy Star Appliances / Oversized Bathrooms & Bedrooms / Covered Back Patios / Lifestyle Features / Serene Backyards / Electric Vehicle Charging Outlet / ENERGY STAR Certified / Indoor AirPLUS Certified / 3rd Party Audited Energy & HERS Score Rating / Spray foam insulation / Insulated Garage & Attic / EPA Water sense Toilets, Faucets, & Showers / LED Lighting /Insulated Owner's Suite for Efficiency & Sound / No VOC paint / Low VOC Engineered Flooring. Centrally located and close to all of the best restaurants and schools Arizona has to offer ... welcome to your new home!