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

6926 N 177th Place Waddell, AZ 85355

$1,425,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,300 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6705971

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Brand new home, full of custom finishes! NO HOA. Irrigated backyard. This incredible home features an open floor plan with every detail thoughtfully designed. 1 acre lot and includes a detached oversized RV Garage. You do not want to miss this!

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2639 E Jade Place Chandler, AZ 85286

New

$1,425,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,906 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6788688

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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42221 N Caledonia Way Anthem, AZ 85086

$1,425,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,545 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752002

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Resort style Arizona living can be yours with 2014 Ultra Paz finished heated Grecian style pool and spa with multiple water features, gas woks, fireplace and fire pit, Cantera decking front and back, 2 exterior pergolas, stacked stone outdoor fireplace, BBQ island & front of home, courtyard Arabesque fountain, wrought iron Cantera entry door, 2022 Trane HVAC systems & ductwork & solar panels. Pleasing light & bright interior w/great room custom bar, patio french doors, stacked stone wall w/linear fireplace, custom master entry doors, master bath free standing tub, kitchen remodel, wine refrigerator, double ovens, family room stacked stone fireplace, crown molding, custom lighting, interior paint and 2024 carpet.

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15055 N Meander Mountain Way Prescott, AZ 86305

$1,425,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,604 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751996

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Custom home in Prescott's exclusive Gated Golf community, Talking Rock Ranch, offering the lowest price per square foot in the area. Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac with an east-facing backyard to enjoy the morning sun in a serene, private, forest-like setting. Newly remodeled great room with DaVinci island fireplace and freshly painted interior. Bright, open spaces with American Walnut wood flooring, featuring a split floor plan that includes an office and a formal dining room. Large primary suite with Reclaimed Red & White Oak floors. A perfect blend of comfort and luxury awaits! Talking Rock is an exclusive golf community providing members unparalleled hospitality. Amenities include award-winning Jay Morrish designed Golf Course, Fitness Barn, Ranch House Restaurant and Bar, Coop's Coffee House, Members Lounge, Racquet sports Courts, Dog Park, Community Garden, over 14 miles of hiking and biking trails and so much more!

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5012 E Blanche Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,425,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,437 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755414

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautifully updated two-story residence is a true gem, offering a perfect blend of modern comfort and versatile living spaces. Step inside to find the renovated interior with brand-new windows that fill each room with natural light. The new kitchen is a chef's delight, with new appliances, sleek cabinetry and stunning countertops - perfect for entertaining or everyday meals. The exterior is equally impressive with an oasis backyard complete with a sparkling pool. Whether you're lounging by the water or hosting a BBQ, this private retreat is your personal paradise.The garage has been transformed into a stylish work/home salon, ideal for those looking for a professional space without leaving home. Alternatively, it can be used as an additional downstairs bedroom.

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15255 N Double Adobe Road Prescott, AZ 86305

$1,425,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,717 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772842

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning contemporary ranch is nestled on 1-acre along the 8th green of Prescott's Premiere golf and fitness community Talking Rock Ranch. The light-filled home features 14-foot ceilings in the main living area, a spacious kitchen with high-end European appliances, a custom bar, and cozy stone fireplace. Wide sliding doors lead to a covered patio and outdoor kitchen complete with pizza oven and privacy. Perfect for entertaining. The split master suite overlooks the golf course and boasts dual walk-in closets, a soaking tub, and a large shower. The ensuite guest room and third bedroom, served by a full bath, provide ample accommodations. A versatile bonus room is ideal for an office, craft room, or gym. The 3-car garage offers generous storage, space for large trucks, and golf cart. The lot provides plenty of space to add a Casita or RV garage, this property combines luxury and practicality in a prime location. Talking Rock is a 24-hour security gated luxury home community with a Troon golf course and exceptional amenities. You have everything you would want or need here, from golf, to pickle ball, tennis, dining, fantastic dog park, hiking and community gardens. The Morgan Room is a private restaurant and bar with a varied menu. The restaurant also features The 1800, a wood fired pizza patio with comfy chairs and firepits to enjoy any season.

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13401 N 78th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,425,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,924 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6780173

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Incredible development opportunity in the hottest market in Scottsdale right now, 85260! Create your dream project for 2025 on nearly a full acre lot! A builders dream with a wide & deep footprint to create your own masterpiece! Enjoy an A+ location just minutes from Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter, and the private Scottsdale Airpark. Whether you're envisioning a modern estate or a high-end investment property, this lot provides the perfect canvas. Don't miss this rare chance to build in one of Scottsdale's hottest markets. This is the opportunity you've been waiting for, come see today!

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9588 E Preserve Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,425,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,214 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773110

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located on the Legend Trail Golf Course, this exceptional home boasts breathtaking mountain views and approximately $100K worth of recent improvements. The large open kitchen features granite countertops, a spacious island, and an eat-in area with direct access to the covered patio, heated pool/spa, & BBQ pit, perfect for entertaining and relaxation. The great room offers a cozy gas fireplace, built-in niche, and double sliding doors that lead to the beautifully upgraded backyard. The master suite includes direct access to the pool and spa, providing a private retreat. All bedrooms are ensuite, with one offering separate courtyard access and views of Pinnacle Peak and the surrounding desert. Located in the prestigious Legend Trails, recognized as one of the Top 100 Facilities by Golf Magazine and Best Places to Play by Golf Digest, this home is ideal for those seeking luxury and tranquility in an unparalleled golf community.

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20440 N 95th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,425,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,091 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781999

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Magnificently Remodeled Home with Striking Style & Luxury at Desirable DC Ranch*Gated Community Adjacent to Park & Walking Trails to DC Ranch Market Street & Community Center*Recent Upgrades include, Cabinets, Carrier 17 Seer AC Units, Custom Front Door, Plumbing Fixtures, Flooring, Toilets, Sinks, Window Covering, Plus! Island Kitchen with Thermador/Sub-Zero Appliances, Gas cooktop, Wall Oven, Stainless Hood, Quartz Counters, Glass Tile Backsplash & a Stylish Custom Bar with Wine Fridge*All Open to Sizable Family Room with 3D Stacked Stone TV Wall & a Linear Fireplace*Elegant Living-Dining Room (All Half-Wall & Columns were removed)*Spacious Master Retreat with Nicely Appointed Bath Includes, Custom Cabinet, Quartz Vanities, Shower/Tub, Tile Floors & Walking Closet*Great Backyard feature Synthetic Grass, Newer Irrigation System & Backing to Natural Open Space! Move-in Ready! All Furnishings are Available by Separate Bill of Sale!

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9430 N 25th Street Phoenix, AZ 85028

$1,425,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,725 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693253

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your oasis in the gated community of Dreamy Draw Estates, nestled North of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. This completely renovated home offers the perfect blend of design, luxury, comfort, and convenience. Step into single floor living where the open floor plan seamlessly connects the two living spaces with dinning and kitchen areas creating the perfect atmosphere for entertaining. The kitchen features new appliances, vaulted ceiling, oversized island and unique natural stone countertops. The wood burning fireplace is accompanied with a wet bar, wine refrigerator, and sleek granite counter tops. Situated moments from endless hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. Easy access to state route 51 and minutes away from Downtown Phoenix, Paradise Vally and North Scottsdale.

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3314 E Azalea Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$1,425,000

6 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,554 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6699370

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

5.99% Available on this Home! Entertainers Dream Home meets Luxury Family Home w/5 Bedrooms Plus a Casita, 4.5 Bathrooms and a 3 Car Garage that is Located on a PREMIUM Oversized Lot in Gilbert. THE BRIDGES Community is a Highly Desirable Neighborhood in Gilbert. Over $250,000 has been spent on the home for the Heated Pool/Spa, Landscaping, Pavers, Enclosed AZ Room, Owned Solar (19 KWS). The Premium Location is just a short walk from the New Gilbert Regional Park. The Downstairs features a Master Retreat with His & Her closets, Dual Sinks, Soaking Tub & walk-in shower. A Detached Casita is perfect for NextGen Families, Home Theater, Bonus Game Room, Office, Gym, or Guests visiting for the Holidays. The Backyard is perfectly set up for Entertaining, Large Family Gatherings, Kids Playground

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20063 N 83rd Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,425,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,704 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6740838

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into this exquisite single-story home nestled on a coveted corner lot overlooking the lush Golf Course in the exclusive guard-gated Talon Retreat community at Grayhawk. This TW Lewis home offers stunning sunrises, tranquil desert views and vibrant golf course activity. This refined residence offers an open floor plan with soaring 12' ceilings, gas fireplace with natural stone surround, a gourmet kitchen with elegant Shaker cabinets, sleek quartz counters with timeless Calacatta Gold marble herringbone tile backsplash. The serene primary suite provides a tranquil escape with a cozy sitting area and private access to a secluded patio. Relax in the backyard sanctuary complete with heated pebble tech pool, gas fire pit and sweeping mountain vistas. Situated in a peaceful and impeccably manicured neighborhood and a short leisurely stroll to a vibrant shopping district and exceptional dining.

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