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

1178 E Betsy Lane Gilbert, AZ 85296

$600,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,642 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779119

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A RARE FIND IN GILBERT! 3CAR GARAGE+RV GATE WITH POOL & 2017 AC UNDER 600K! THIS GREAT HOME FEATURES AN OVERSIZED BACKYARD BOASTING A LOVLEY POOL,ABOVE GROUND REDWOOD SPA,LARGE GRASS SPACE, SATIO TILE COVERED PATIO W/MISTERS.MATURE LANDSCAPE W/FRUIT TREES ALONG WITH EXTENDED PATIOS & WALKWAYS! AMPLE SPACE BEHIND THE RV GATE FOR TOYS. YOUR BUYERS WILL ENJOY THE HIGH VAULTED CEILINGS & OPEN FLOORPLAN! ALL OF THIS WITH AN INCREDIBLE GILBERT LOCATION CLOSE OF SOME OF THE BEST SHOPPING, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT IN THE EAST VALLEY!

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2457 N 26th Street Mesa, AZ 85213

New

$600,000

5 Beds

2 Baths

2,120 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787912

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

You'll LOVE this beautiful 5-bed, 2-bath home in a great Mesa location! Featuring a 3-car garage, RV gate, & a grass front yard w/fruit tree. Home exudes sophistication with vaulted ceilings, neutral paint, chic light fixtures, and tile & soft carpet t/out. If entertaining is on your mind, the spacious open layout will surely impress you! The kitchen boasts built-in appliances, a pantry, recessed lighting, granite counters, a center island, ample white cabinetry w/crown molding, and a peninsula w/breakfast bar. Double-door main bedroom has a walk-in closet and an ensuite w/dual sinks & a tiled shower. Moving outdoors, tranquility awaits in the large backyard! A covered patio, lush lawn, playset, well-laid pavers, in-ground trampoline, & a storage shed complete the picture. Welcome home! New roof with premium underlayment completed in the fall of 2023. Upgraded electrical panel in March 2024.

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1427 W Via Del Oro -- Queen Creek, AZ 85140

$600,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,158 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785926

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this beautifully upgraded 2-bedroom + Den, 2.5-bathroom home spanning 2,157 sqft. The open-concept great room is perfect for entertaining, complemented by a private master suite with a spacious walk-in closet. Recent enhancements (July 2023) include stylish pendant lights, high-quality overhead fans, plantation shutters, Hunter Douglas vertiglide for the sliding door, and custom paint. The backyard is an entertainer's dream with turf, paver accents, a BBQ platform, automatic lighting, and lush landscaping. The garage boasts ample storage with cabinets and overhead bins, plus app-controlled access. Modern appliances, upgraded finishes, and smart features elevate this home - it's better than new and completely turn key!

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2383 W Whisper Rock Trail Phoenix, AZ 85085

New

$600,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,155 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6788534

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the desirable gated 24 North Community. This home features 2,155 sq ft with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Enjoy this clean, sophisticated palette with an open, airy layout, perfect for today's lifestyles. The main level has ample space for entertaining or relaxation. Upper loft area for additional living space. Light and bright laundry area boasts storage/cabinets. Enjoy your outdoor living space, great for tranquility and natural serenity. Low maintenance front yard and backyard. Easy access drive into your two car garage. Including new 2024 A/C. Just steps away from the community pool, dog park and walking trails. Easy road access for seamless commutes. Come take a look today!

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29778 N 129th Glen Peoria, AZ 85383

$600,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,635 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6784213

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

PRIME LOCATION & RARE FIND - this one-of-a-kind TURN-KEY Flora (furniture included) is situated on an EXTREMELY PRIVATE HOMESITE w/ NATURAL DESERT VIEWS!! Beautiful curb appeal w/ STONE ACCENTS greets you before entering the charming FRONT PAVER COURTYARD. Step inside & you'll be impressed - the pride in ownership is noticed when opening the door - this home is PRISTINE! The EAT-IN Kitchen is equipped w/ Engineered STONE slab, under cabinet & pendant lighting & a PREP ISLAND w/ access to the front crt yrd!! OVERSIZED TILE installed on the diagonal in all the right areas & DEN DOORS w/ MURPHY BED is the perfect flex space!! Step outside to paradise and enjoy the spectacular resort backyard oasis! The HEATED POOL, PRIVATE SPA & ROCK WATER FEATURE is the perfect setting to enjoy the EXPANSIVE DESERT & MOUNTAIN VIEWS!! The EXTENDED COVERED PATIO features a STUNNING FIREPLACE WALL w/ Built-in BBQ - the perfect space to enjoy the Breathtaking Views. Additional upgrades: SUN SHADE off the back patio, Misting System, custom window treatments, RO, Soft Water, Temperature Controlled Garage w/ Storage, 3kw OWNED SOLAR and so much more - Don't miss the opportunity to call this home!!

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2705 W Summit Place Chandler, AZ 85224

$600,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,703 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769650

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This highly sought-after home, perfectly situated on a prime corner lot, is ready to be yours! The beautifully updated interior showcases fresh neutral paint, tile flooring, and newer windows that fill the space with natural light. Relax or entertain in the cozy living room, complete with newer carpet. The inviting great room features sliding glass doors that lead to the back patio, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience. The gourmet kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, ample cabinetry, granite tile countertops, and a two-tier island with a breakfast bar. Double doors open to the main bedroom, featuring plush carpeting, a spacious walk-in closet, and an ensuite bathroom with dual sinks and a luxurious floor-to-ceiling tiled shower. The delightful backyard offers a covered patio, artificial turf, and a newer saltwater pool system, newer pump, filter, Pebble Tec finish, LED lighting, and cool deckingperfect for enjoying warm summer days. Don't miss out on this unique gemit will go fast!

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13721 W Aleppo Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$600,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,103 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783853

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your FURNISHED dream home in Sun City West. Perfectly situated on the Grandview Golf Course with beautiful views. Enjoy this completely remodeled home w/ open layout, soaring vaulted ceilings, recessed lighting, stylish wood-look flooring, & a cozy fireplace. This kitchen w/ a view boasts granite counters, beautiful cabinetry with crown moulding, pendant lighting, SS appliances, large island with a breakfast bar. You'll also find a den/craft room that provides a versatile space. The main bedroom includes a quaint sitting nook, an ensuite with double sinks, steam shower & a walk-in closet. 2 more bedrooms, one is set up for wheel chair access into the walk in shower. Outdoors space offers: covered patio, pavers, and a serene view of the golf course. New Roof and HVAC 2023

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3256 S Emery Circle Mesa, AZ 85212

$600,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,162 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784040

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home to your oasis in the desert! Very well maintained & updated 4 bedroom, plus a den, 2 bathroom, 2162sq ft home. Large bedrooms with no interior steps. Great outdoor space with sparkling pool for entertaining. Smart home technology with owned security system. RV gate to store your boat or RV. Everything has been meticulously maintained from the new patio roof(2023) to the 3 car epoxy coated garage floor. Completely remodeled gorgeous master bath, walk in shower designed for 2 with separate soaking tub. New appliances(2022). And so much more!

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5511 W Aster Drive Glendale, AZ 85304

$600,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,144 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6686207

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

COMPLETELY UPDATED!! Stunning Marshall Ranch home on a corner lot with an inviting entrance porch and security screen door. Inside, discover a formal living and dining area, along with a spacious den/office. The kitchen features a dining area, pantry, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, bay window, large island with cooktop, and breakfast bar. The primary suite overlooks the pool and boasts double sinks, jacuzzi tub, shower, and walk-in closet. All bathrooms have been beautifully updated with granite and tile surrounds. A charming loft in bedroom three offers versatility for an office or play area. The backyard oasis includes a covered patio, expansive pool with shelf, and lush green grass.

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3367 Phantom Street Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$600,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,019 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6708287

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

FULLY ASSUMABLE 3% LOAN!! 2 BD/2 BA/DEN Nestled in the tranquil desert resort community of Trilogy Wickenburg Ranch, this highly sought-after Cypress floor plan home on a north/south exposure premium lot offers a strong sense of privacy by providing no neighbors in front or behind the home. Upon entering, the residence reveals a grand open and wide floor plan with meticulous attention to detail. The enhanced den, wet bar, and spacious living room, with 9' ceilings and upgraded flooring throughout, create a warm atmosphere for entertaining or quiet evenings. The kitchen exudes both elegance and functionality. It boasts a large 4 seat island and is equipped with upgraded built-in appliances, a gas cooktop, under-counter lighting, a 2nd pantry, upgraded soft close cabinets, along with granite countertops. The luxurious primary suite, adorned with blackout shades/blinds, provides a serene sanctuary. The expansive master closet, featuring a custom closet system with abundant storage, adds a touch of luxury and functionality. The attached en-suite bathroom radiates spa-like indulgence, boasting a walk-in shower and double vanities. The backyard with a spacious covered patio sets the tone for tranquility, while beautifully appointed pavers extend the patio inviting relaxation amidst a beautifully landscaped oasis, adorned with a harmonious blend of native plants and strategic lighting, enhancing the home's innate natural beauty and privacy. Additionally, this home boasts a spacious 2-car garage with overhead storage racks and epoxy-coated floors, providing ample storage space for vehicles and belongings. Furthermore, this home offers an ungraded instant hot water circulation system, a water softener system, and a security system, to enhance comfort along with providing greater peace of mind. Situated in a prestigious Trilogy community, this beautifully upgraded home comes with plentiful amenities including a Troon golf course, a private 9-hole course, a resort pool & spa complex and multiple pickleball courts, while offering a luxury lifestyle effortlessly blending seclusion with accessibility. Experience luxury living at its finest with this exquisite home in Wickenburg Ranch.

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417 N Olive -- Mesa, AZ 85203

$600,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

1,791 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6730937

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Priced below recent appraisal. Your brand new West Coast Farmhouse inspired home is waiting for you. Designer built, Designer finishes. This 1791 Sf, 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home has a thoughtful open floor plan, and each room is conveniently wired for internet. The fully insulated detached 2 car garage sits on a 10,000 sf xeriscaped lot ready for all your toys. Conveniently located close to Main Street, Hohokam Stadium, Sloan Park, plus easy access to the 202.

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2316 N Earle Drive Flagstaff, AZ 86004

$600,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,711 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6726104

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

It's the lock-and-leave golf course home you have been waiting for! This end unit townhome has a fantastic cul-de-sac location with an elevated view of the 17th fairway and green complex of Aspen Valley Golf Course and is the only duplex-style unit in the Elk Run Townhome community. Be welcomed into the open concept floorplan with open sightlines to the course from the front door and wood-look tile in all the right places. The spacious kitchen features plenty of counterspace and a breakfast bar for casual meals. The dining room is perfect for hosting family and friends. Enjoy the amazing views year-round from the living room complete with a gas fireplace, oversized sliding glass door and clerestory windows. The large deck is ideal for lounging or dining al fresco. Unwind after a long day in the master suite featuring a spa-like soaking tub, his & her sinks, and a private toilet room. Two additional bedrooms and guest bathroom are also upstairs. New exterior paint, attached single car garage and interior laundry are additional bonuses. All this and more located within Continental Country Club which features a community pool, tennis & pickleball courts, clubhouse with fitness center & The Oakmont restaurant, special events, discount of golf greens fees and much, much more! Come see this home today!

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