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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1251 E Parkview Drive Gilbert, AZ 85295

$649,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,237 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765501

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOWZA! Newly remodeled, fantastic home in Spectrum has everything! Offering 4 beds, 2.5 baths, 3 garage spaces including tandem, & a manicured landscape. Inviting interior showcases tons of natural light, designer paint, & wood-look flooring t/out. W/a large living/dining room & an open-concept family room, you have spaces for relaxation & gathering. The impressive kitchen boasts SS appliances, granite counters, a pantry, ample cabinetry, track lighting, & a 2-tier peninsula w/breakfast bar. The master bedroom is downstairs! It features an ensuite w/two vanities, separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Secondary bedrooms & a versatile loft await upstairs. Enjoy the spacious entertainer's PRIVATE backyard with a covered patio, built-in BBQ, synthetic & natural lawns, and a sparkling pool!

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8373 W Andrea Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$649,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,682 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767297

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Explore this stunning 2-story gem in Peoria, complete with a spacious 3-car garage. You'll be captivated by its warm wood-look flooring, soaring ceilings, and the generously sized living room, perfect for relaxing. A formal dining area is ideal for memorable gatherings, while the chic kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, granite counters, a pantry, white cabinetry, and a breakfast bar. The primary suite offers a tranquil retreat with a bay window, dual sinks, a soothing tub, and a walk-in closet. A huge bonus room provides flexibility as a media center or additional bedroom. Step outside to the lush backyard oasis featuring a covered patio, paver sitting area, built-in BBQ, gorgeous mountain views, and a sparkling pool. You'll want to see this beauty in person! Don't miss out!

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914 E Osborn Road Unit 201 Phoenix, AZ 85014

$649,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,708 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775211

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Experience New York Loft Living in the Heart of Phoenix! This exceptional home features sleek polished concrete floors, a striking fireplace wall, a floating wood staircase, and artistic touches throughout, making it a true architectural masterpiece. The chef-inspired kitchen boasts modern flat-panel black European cabinetry, elegant quartz countertops, and top-of-the-line appliances, including a Sub-Zero refrigerator and a Fisher & Paykel oven with an induction cooktop—perfect for crafting gourmet meals. Ideal for entertaining, the kitchen seamlessly flows into the dining area and great room, while two walk-out balconies provide stunning sunset views and a front-row seat to Phoenix's 4th of July fireworks. Each bathroom is meticulously designed with a stylish blend of natural wood and chic tile finishes, balancing modern elegance with timeless charm. The primary bedroom offers a luxurious walk-in closet with custom cabinetry, glass doors, integrated lighting, and ample storage space for all your belongings. This home also includes a spacious laundry room with cabinets for extra storage and a tankless water heater for added convenience. With three designated parking spots in the garage, this loft offers urban sophistication paired with practical desert living truly one of a kind!

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8520 E Highland Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$649,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,576 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775687

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Great opportunity for investors or end users to remodel or build new in the heart of Scottsdale!Located on a highly desirable street within walking distance to Old Town where renovated homes are selling for over $2 million.Property features:4 bdrms,2 baths, great room layout w/ a stacked stone wood-burning fireplace.The kitchen has stainless steel appliances & new wood countertop on peninsula. 4th bdrm w/ a separate entrance is perfect for a home office.Large backyard w/ a blank canvas, plenty of room for a pool & new block wall replaced wood fence. Additional features include inside laundry & large storage shed.Close to downtown Scottsdale,101 freeway, & Scottsdale Community College, this family home is zoned for Saguaro High School & offers great potential!

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2537 N 87th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$649,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,751 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6729321

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the perfect blend of modern comfort & classic AZ charm in this beautifully remodeled 4/1.75 pool home. This home isn't just a place to live—it's a lifestyle. Previously a profitable STR, it's a fantastic investment opportunity or the perfect place for your own. With no HOA to worry about you have the freedom to truly make this house your own! You'll be greeted by natural light that floods the spacious living areas creating an inviting atmosphere. The floor plan seamlessly connects the living room to a stunning private courtyard accessible from both the living room & primary bedroom. Imagine sipping your morning coffee in this tranquil outdoor space. The kitchen has SS appliances & granite countertops. Step outside to your secluded backyard where a gated pool awaits! Fashion Square Mall, and easy access to the 101 freeway, this home offers convenience and a vibrant lifestyle. Whether you're looking for a primary residence or a vacation rental investment, this property presents an excellent opportunity to grow your portfolio. Don't miss the chance to make this beautiful Scottsdale home yours.

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3732 W Shannon Street Chandler, AZ 85226

$649,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,417 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6752210

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fabulous home in an even better location. Located in the Kyrene school district This wonderful home has 4 bedrooms and 3 baths And a 3 car Garage. All the extras your buyer is looking for, a bedroom and bath downstairs ideal for a guest room or office. The primary bedroom has a large sitting area with a fabulous view and no homes behind it. The Primary bath is updated with a soaking tub separate shower with 2 sinks.. The Kitchen has been updated with Copper backsplash, Quartzite counters, and stainless steel appliances. 3 car garage gives you room for all your toys and the side yard has an RV gate for the extra items. This home is in the fabulous award-winning Kyrene school district and Corona Del Sol High School boundaries. The seller has updated the home with high tech security sys

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3794 E Terrel Street San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$648,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,604 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763777

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This home has it all with room for your guests and all of your toys! Popular Explorer plan features a full guest suite with its own private entrance as well as it's own RV garage. This home is situated in the amenity rich community of Bella Vista Farms. Residents enjoy an amenity-rich lifestyle with exclusive access to an onsite swimming pool, picnic area, splash park, playground, basketball court, volleyball court and greenbelt. The local area is host to the San Tan Regional Park, where locals enjoy biking, hiking, horseback riding and more. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.

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14217 N 11th Way Phoenix, AZ 85022

$648,790

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,991 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6765992

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

You'll be enchanted by this exquisite Moon Valley gem. Located in a quiet cul-de-sac, this breathtaking home has undergone recent updates, featuring new flooring, updated baths, double-pane windows, air conditioning, ductwork, fresh interior and exterior paint and more. This gorgeous kitchen is right off your Pinterest page. Two tone cabinetry, huge center island with quarts counters and new stainless appliances. However, your favorite retreat will undoubtedly be the backyard. Step through your 15-foot sliding doors into your private sanctuary, complete with a fenced pebble-tec pool, gazebo, firepit, and stunning landscaping. Whether you're entertaining guests or simply relaxing by the pool, you'll enjoy a beautiful and tranquil atmosphere. with plenty of privacy and mountain views.

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12712 W Corona Avenue Avondale, AZ 85392

$648,346

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,308 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785952

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to The Camelback model home, a magnificent turn-key ready Model home that has been meticulously designed to offer space, comfort, and versatility. Boasting an expansive 2,308 square feet, this home features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and spacious Loft! Whether hosting gatherings or enjoying quiet evenings, the expansive layout and premium features provide an exceptional living experience. Designed for both comfort and luxury, this home features:

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4220 N 32nd Street Unit 2 Phoenix, AZ 85018

$648,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

1,487 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784339

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Introducing the epitome of modern patio home living in the heart of Arcadia - welcome home to the Arcadian Phoenix. Nestled in the coveted 85018 area code, these modern townhomes redefine living with their spacious floor plans and an array of amenities. Step inside to discover a haven of elegance, boasting 10-foot ceilings on the main living floor and large windows that flood the space with natural light. The gourmet kitchen seamlessly merges with the inviting family room, creating the perfect setting for both everyday living and entertaining. Revel in the exquisite finishes, featuring stunning cabinetry, sleek quartz countertops, and timeless stainless steel appliances. Experience true architectural brilliance with the inclusion of a charming Juliet balcony

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14015 N Hampstead Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$648,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,122 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760210

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your ideal home! This single-story gem boasts 3 beds, 2 baths, and a spacious 2-car garage, spanning 2122 square feet of comfortable living space. As you step inside, you're greeted by the charm of beamed ceilings and a focal fireplace, creating a cozy ambiance. The home features energy-efficient windows and sliders installed in 2022, along with a new HVAC system for optimal comfort year-round. Enjoy the convenience of a circular driveway & the beauty of pavers & turf in the backyard, perfect for low-maintenance yet stylish outdoor living with no HOA!

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21632 N 58th Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

Open House

$648,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,388 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776336

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A beautiful, move-in ready home for sale in sought-after neighborhood of Arrowhead Lakes! The soaring 10'+ ceilings in the formal living room welcomes you in once you open the front door. Honey maple cabinetry in the kitchen, and all interior doors were custom-built honey maple doors. Huge primary bedroom with a patio door to the backyard oasis; tiled walk-in shower in primary bathroom with a jetted tub; RV gate, 3-car garage, fresh paints in common area, utility sink in the good size laundry room, and this house is sitting in a huge lot over 11,000 sqft in a cul-de-sac. A+ schools, convenient to shoppings, freeways and more. Come see this gem today!

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