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

35801 N Meander Way Carefree, AZ 85377

$5,750,000
3 Beds
5 Baths
6,501 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749384
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Chic single level contemporary new build completed in 2023 in Carefree on Black Mountain! Nestled on a sprawling mountainside estate spanning 1.6 acres, offering breathtaking vistas of Black Mountain, Boulders Resorts golf courses, and beyond. This architectural gem is a testament to modern luxury living, meticulously crafted with unparalleled attention to detail. Upon entry, you are met with great room, featuring soaring 16-foot ceilings, expansive 30-foot wide glass pocket doors, and a sleek modern fireplace adorned with porcelain slabs. Floor-to-ceiling 10-foot glass walls frame the awe-inspiring views, seamlessly blending the indoors with the natural splendor outside. The European-inspired kitchen is a culinary enthusiast's dream, showcasing a over 15-foot long island finished with luxurious Taj Mahal quartzite, Miele appliances, and a spacious breakfast nook enveloped by sliding glass doors. For added convenience, a full prep/catering kitchen awaits. Step outside to the sprawling 14-foot high ceiling covered patio, featuring limestone floors and a misting system, creating an outdoor oasis to unwind, entertain, and revel in the panoramic views of the valley and city lights. The focal point of the backyard is the exquisite custom negative edge pool and spa, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Retreat to the sumptuous primary suite, complete with dual custom closets and a spa-like bathroom featuring dual water closets, freestanding tub, marble floor and wall surrounds, and a steam shower. Additional rooms include an expansive office with custom bookshelves and a private patio, along with a versatile flex space ideal for a gym, game room, or additional bedroom, offer flexibility to suit your lifestyle. Two spacious ensuite guest rooms complete the guest wing! Designed for modern living, this home boasts a Creston smart home system, allowing for effortless control of lighting, music, HVAC, pool, shades, and security with a simple touch. A 4-car garage with oversized doors, a spacious laundry room with double washer and dryer, and lush turf grass area add to the convenience and allure of this remarkable property. Welcome home!

10184 E Peak Circle Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$5,700,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,519 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754344
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Estancia Golf Membership available * Completely remodeled in 2023 * Elegant residence in the guard-gated community of Estancia with timeless architectural details * The exterior details include an organic composition of dry-stacked stone, stucco and glass with a new concrete tile roof * Sited on an elevated lot with panoramic views of Pinnacle Peak * Split floor plan with a living room, family room that connects to an open kitchen, two guest suites and a dedicated office with full bath providing the flexibility for a fourth bedroom * Interior details include wood plank flooring, granite and quartz countertops, custom-crafted cabinetry, all new custom lighting and dry-stacked stone fireplace surrounds * The resort-style outdoor living space offers a large covered patio, heated pool and spa built-in BBQ station and a gas fireplace *

24863 N 103rd Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$5,695,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,932 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6723326
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Amazing opportunity for brand new build contemporary styled construction in North Scottsdale! Camelot Homes award winning Cavallo floor plan offers all Single level and the best indoor/outdoor living. Price includes all structural components, wine wall, highly upgraded contemporary cabinets , oversized tile flooring, countertops and tile, electrical and low voltage upgrades as well as 3 en suite bedrooms, casita, office and bonus room along with standard 4 car garage. Amazing views from courtyard and rear yard. Price also includes upgraded pool and landscaping. Pool/landscaping currently being installed. Estimated closing End of the year 2024. Video is from our Bronco model and not representative of home for sale.

3866 S Clubhouse Circle Unit 259 Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$5,695,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,522 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6691628
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Situated on one of Pine Canyon's best fairway lots this stunning mountain lodge has dramatic views of the 17th green and the San Fransisco Peaks. The grand ledge stone and wood exterior design continues inside as textured stone columns frame the great room and a stunning floor-to-ceiling ledge stone fireplace takes center stage along with expansive windows and glass double doors to frame the outdoor views. The Great room towers to over 25 feet with a beamed ceiling and partially surrounded by the wood and metal railings of the upper loft area. This very special home features two primary suites, each with its own fireplace and luxurious bath. The Great room floor plan blends the the living, dining and kitchen areas altogether. Between the the Great room and dining area is a ... wet bar with wine and beverage coolers as well as a sumptuous powder room. The dining area has room for family and guests. The country kitchen is a chefs delight with a large butcher board and granite center island, Viking appliances and a walk-in pantry. You enter the outdoor patio deck from either the Great room or kitchen. Its a great place to enjoy the fabulous views, relax in the hot tub, or to enjoy a barbecue. The main level laundry/craft room is the access into the large 3 car garage. The lower walk-out level includes a large media/game room with a large sitting area with fireplace and a separate area for the pool table. This all opens to two covered patios with similar golf course and mountain views as the main deck above. The lower level also includes 2 bedrooms, a large bunk room, 2 baths and two large mechanical closets with an abundance of storage. The loft includes a comfy office, a large seating area and half bath (This seating area can easily be converted to a spacious guest en-suite by adding a shower to the half bath). High end finishes abound in including ledge stone and steal fireplace surrounds, hardwood flooring, floating vanities, custom wood and metal railings and beamed and tongue & groove ceiling treatments. This is Pine Canyon living at its best.

12913 N 119th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$5,600,000
7 Beds
11 Baths
11,548 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6743300
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BREATHTAKING VIEWS, ULTIMATE PRIVACY AND ENTERTAINER'S DREAM in this guard gated golf club community. Perched on a hill in the back of the neighborhood, this home gives you the feeling of being on top of the world as you step out onto one of the many balconies where you can enjoy unobstructed views of Camelback Mountain and the shimmering city lights below. Imagine hosting ultimate gatherings in a home that's designed for entertaining! This paradise offers your very own movie theater, billiard room with bar, fitness center with sauna, wine cellar, sprawling open-concept living and kitchen area that flows effortlessly into a fully equipped bar and outdoor patio. A spa and 2 beautiful pools with waterfalls share a private courtyard space. Main house includes a separate guest quarters -- along with an additional detached guest house adjacent to the courtyard pool. Even a 7 CAR GARAGE including space for an RV or boat! This home is more than just a place to live - it's a venue for experiences....a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life while still being close to all amenities and events Scottsdale has to offer!

10701 E Jomax Road Unit 1 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$5,575,000
5 Beds
5 Baths
5,000 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6707666
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A striking 'Moditerranean' from Temac Development and Candelaria Design Associates - Situated on 2.5 Acres, this classic estate boasts some of the best views in the area with privacy and seclusion. Unobstructed views of Pinnacle Peak, Troon Mountain, and Troon Country Club, all with the freedom of no HOA. Nearby world-class Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale. Your inquiry to this iconic estate is welcomed.

24779 N 91st Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$5,500,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,010 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779265
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEW 2024 CONSTRUCTION contemporary masterpiece awaits in prestigious North Scottsdale Solitude community, situated on a premier lot with breathtaking south-facing views of the McDowell Mountains, Camelback Mountain, open desert, and sparkling city lights. A true architectural gem designed by Swaback Architects and built by Sonora West Development, this 5000+ square feet 4-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom with a den or office space blends seamlessly into the desert landscape with clean lines and an eye-catching façade. Inside, the modern minimalist open concept design is equipped with advanced Smart Home technology, ensuring every modern convenience is within reach and welcoming you with soaring ceilings, oak wood floors, custom chandeliers, and high-end finishes throughout. Expansive retractable doors lead to a stunning South-facing outdoor living area, where the outdoor views are just as remarkable as the interior finishes. This resort inspired space features a heated pool and spa, stone paver decking, custom fire pit, and barbecue area with stone finishes. The custom designed landscape includes stone paver patios, turf, desert plantings, and stylish block and metal fencing, all visible from covered patios with wood tongue-and-groove ceilings. This Arizona desert retreat is truly a ready-to-enjoy oasis.

Amado AZ 85645

$5,500,000
18 Beds
14 Baths
2,197 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6682628
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Tucked away at the base of the Santa Rita Mountains, yet close to Tucson, GreenValley and Tubac, lies this 160-acre horse and cattle ranch. Immediately adjacent to it is an accompanying 6,000-acre state cattle grazing lease, where one can ride, hike, nature watch, or hunt. This exceptional Ranch features many amenities including 2 residences (1972, 2017) suitable for owners or family situated on the Headquarters parcel and 4 homes suitable for guests or crew. Verdant irrigated pastures, beautiful old mesquite trees and breathtaking views of Elephant Head Butte and the Santa Cruz River make this retreat unique. Cherished as a private family homestead for many years, this land dates back to the historic Canoa Land Grant and was later owned by the Amado family for which the town is named.

10627 E Hedgehog Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$5,500,000
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,873 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702937
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
PINNACLE PEAK HILLSIDE CUSTOM RESORT HOME: Perched high on the mountain, backs to ''The Rocks'' and Four Seasons. The main house is 4917 sf with 360 degree views and features reclaimed solid wood floors, rustic beam ceilings & organic stones incorporated throughtout, Huge Chef's Kitchen with Double Sub Zero and Wolf apppliances. Kitchen is open to the dining area with two 10' tall vanishing patio doors. Primary bedroom has fireplace/private deck to the outside living areas. Two more bedrooms, lower level and very private den/office with expensive views. Extraordinary Guest House is over 900 square feet w/Bedroom, separate Living Room, Kitchen Area, W/D, & Full Bath. Complete home automation w/remote access to control temperature, lighting, alarm and pool & spa and Automated shades. Multiple fireplaces, patios & private balconies showcase panoramic views of boulder outcroppings, mountains & city lights to the north. Pool and spa with water fall features and slide. Outdoor covered kitchen BBQ. This is one of a kind custom Sante Fe with some contemporary flair, built on the side of the mountain with expansive unobstructed views. Multiple fireplaces, private balconies, Note the beautiful large organic stones were incorporated into the architecture with rustic beams and vegas, to create opulence and charm. The private resort-style outdoor living area features self-cleaning pebbletec pool, spa, two large waterfall features, outdoor shower, and fully covered outdoor living room. All furnishings are available on separate bill of sale. See the Matterport walk through to see the floorplan and walk through the rooms. Pinnacle Peak, Tom's Thumb, Granite Mt Visitors Center Hiking are hiking trails within walking distance. Scottsdale National Golf Course is minutes away. This feels like Hotel Arizona.

6228 N Cattletrack Road Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$5,500,000
5 Beds
8.5 Baths
5,161 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6724076
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This to be built prime 1.9-acre parcel is located just south of Lincoln on the Scottsdale/Paradise Valley border, placing you in the heart of Scottsdale's best shopping, restaurants, and golf courses. Originally two parcels now combined you get one of the larges lots in the area. The property has approved plans with car garage, multiple dwellings and luxurious design by Kendle Design collaborative. Price reflects lots and completed plans and engineering. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to live the Scottsdale lifestyle!

20242 N 103rd Way Unit 1246 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$5,500,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,463 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778867
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Esteemed location in Silverleaf, desirably located in the Windgate Pass guard gate this stunning custom ranch estate is beaming with charm and character. Architecturally striking curb appeal with welcoming grass front yard with spacious entertaining courtyard with fireplace and covered porch entry. Well-designed home plan offers functionality and sophistication, with the great room as the heart of the home anchored with a grand stone fireplace with soaring wood beam lined ceilings and wrap around wet bar, spacious secondary ensuite bedrooms, executive office and plus den with dual access to great room and secondary bedroom wing, this gem offers optimal living experiences. Inviting kitchen oversized eat in island opens to front covered porch convenient for relaxing and unwinding, or perfect for social gatherings in front courtyard. Refined style, with impressive details woven throughout including wood accented ceilings with beams, tongue/groove, coffered, and brick features, stone and wood flooring, and wood window shutters. Enchanting backyard boasts Sonoran Mountain views featuring heated pool and spa with lounging hardscape, expansive covered patio with fireplace, built-in BBQ and ramada for entertaining, firepit with sitting area, and generous turfed grass area. Sought after location, conveniently located near neighborhood parks and lake, this ranch one story with no stairs or step downs will impressive the most discerning clients.

42035 N 113th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$5,500,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,416 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758699
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Immediate Lifestyle Membership to the Desert Mountain Club is available from Seller! Enjoy sweeping Valley, sunsets and city light views from this elevated Apache Peak setting, nestled into a 1.6 acres featuring impressive outcroppings and stunning saguaros. The newly remodeled interiors offer today's convenient lifestyle and light finishes, while preserving the charm of it's original Southwest spirit. Discover the sculptural lines throughout that offer visual interest in the walls, ceiling and hearth details rarely found in available homes today. Appreciate each room's unique beauty, from the magnificent great room hearth to the state-of-the-art chef's kitchen. The main home with three bedrooms and office is complimented by a nearly 1000 sf 2-bedroom & great room casita Non-stop Valley views can be seen from all of the public spaces of the home: great room, dining room, kitchen and family room. The remodel includes soft white walls throughout, complimented by richly refinished alder doors and beams in a rich espresso. A new wood-framed front door and sidelights are enhanced by Taliesin-styled clear art glass. The open great room and dining room boast unique ceiling details with a focus on the artisan-designed sculptural hearth that is the essence of the home's architectural style. A stunningly remodeled culinary center by Camerucci Montenegro Design holds many surprises from designer appliances, to creative and plentiful cabinet storage, to inspired LED lighting that magically changes color to match your mood or holiday occasion. White floor-to-ceiling tile, natural stone and pendant lighting compliment the natural lighting and views. The primary wing includes an office with mountain views and a large bedroom that overlooks the sundeck with valley and city views, also boasting a large spa-like bath plus a stacking washer/dryer. The sprawling patio offers two distinct areas, both with a front row seat to grand views: a dream outdoor kitchen with dining and bistro seating, and an expansive sundeck with pool and spa. A very private casita offers spacious accommodation for guests, showcasing a great room with hearth, kitchenette & bar, and two bedrooms sharing a Jack & Jill bath with stacking laundry. With a greatroom king sleeper sofa, this casita easily hosts 6 guests. The owners enjoy this entire casita as flex space, utilizing the great room area as a music/band studio, one bedroom as a music composing studio with queen convertible sofa, and another bedroom as a home gym with king Murphy bed... all designed to be easily convertible to a customary housing arrangement for family and guests. The three-car oversized garage is a car-lovers dream, with over 30 linear feet of red and grey steel cabinets/ workshop/ storage space, gray epoxy floors, electric car outlet, plus full-sized Gladiator freezer and refrigerator duo. The remodel includes all new baths, wood flooring, updated HVAC units and water heaters ( 2 of the 3 are tankless.) All in fabulous Desert Mountain with 7 golf courses, 10 restaurants, state-of-the-art tennis/fitness center and spa, 25+ miles of private hiking trails, bocce, croquet and a myriad of activities and year-round events for the entire family. Furniture is available by separate Bill of Sale. The Seller's Lifestyle Membership is available by application to the Desert Mountain Club. Buyer may elect to purchase it, with NO WAITLIST, at Close of Escrow - through the Club at Buyer's expense. After purchasing this Lifestyle Membership, Buyer may in the future elect to waitlist with the Club for a Golf Membership. This Lifestyle Membership may be maintained, as such, permanently. This is a rare opportunity for a Buyer to own a Lifestyle Membership, where only Golf Memberships are available to new applicants.