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

Listing types.

For Sale

For Rent

Land

Multifamily

Commercial

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Distressed

Open House

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Price MaxAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Neighborhood

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Location Search Nearby

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

View As: Thumbnails List

Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

7520 S Estrella Parkway Goodyear, AZ 85338

$2,775,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

4,600 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6719816

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Mid-Century Estate offering a blend of luxury, privacy & investment potential! SELLER FINANCING AVAILABLE! An Entertainers Dream perfectly situated atop 5 mountainside acres with panoramic views of the Phoenix Skyline. Enter an inviting foyer with soaring ceilings setting the tone for the elegance found throughout. Natural light floods the bright kitchen & dining area. The family room boasts vaulted ceilings & a cozy fireplace. The living space comprises 4 bedrooms, 2 flex rooms & 4 bathrooms. Outside enjoy Palm Trees, BBQ Island, Fire Pits & a Cooled Patio Room +Entertainment Barn w/AC! Zoned commercial/residential PAD, Underground power/city water/gated driveway. No HOA. 220V EV Charger in Garage. Perfect for Business or Private Estate. 10 additional acres MLS: 6719816

View Property

26924 N 35th Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$2,750,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,776 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6741410

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

NEW HOME TO BE BUILT!!! Wake up in the home of your dreams! Collaborate with Arizona's most acclaimed architects and planners to create a new way of living in North Phoenix. Nestled just north of Happy Valley, this 4,776-square-foot property offers breathtaking mountain and city light views within the prestigious gated community of Deem Hill Estates. This luxurious home includes an 875-square-foot guest suite, complete with a kitchen, living area, full bath, laundry room, and separate garage. The main house features an expansive master suite with a huge walk-in closet, two bedrooms with Jack and Jill bath and walk-in closets, a separate office, and a mudroom. The second floor boasts a spacious concept room with a walk-in closet and full bath. Experience unparalleled elegance and comfort in this exclusive hillside community. Seamlessly transition from indoors to a resort-style outdoor space via multi-slide doors, where a shimmering pool, state-of-the-art BBQ, chic bar, firepit, and a cozy gas fireplace await. For peace of mind, it's pre-wired for security and cameras. Just moments away from schools, exclusive shopping, and the renowned TSMC facility.

View Property

7914 E Softwind Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,750,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

5,854 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786609

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A recently updated 5,854 square foot single-story Santa Barbara style estate featuring 5 bedrooms, a den, an attached recreation room with a private entrance, 4 full baths, 2 powder rooms and a 3-car garage in the prestigious gated community of Vista Monterey in North Scottsdale on a 1.039-acre lot. Upon arrival a gorgeous courtyard welcomes you. The spacious floor plan with high ceilings, large windows, covered with plantation shutters, allowing the natural light to brighten the home. The kitchen is an entertainer's delight with oversized island and finely crafted cabinets. This immaculate home offers a split floor plan, with the primary bedroom located on the West side and five large bedrooms, 3 full baths, extra-large playroom, plus a den on the East side of the property. The lavish primary bedroom boasts a sitting area, a full bath with upgraded his and her closets, separate shower and a tub. Every toilet in the house was replaced by the smart Toto toilets. The resort-style backyard complete with a lagoon-like swimming pool with a real rock water fall with a slide, grotto, a spa, fireplace, fire pit alongside the spa, outdoor shower, built-in BBQ and an expansive grass area. There are natural space buffers around the home providing remarkable privacy. The location provides quick access to shopping, restaurants, several parks, premier hiking trails, golfing and the 101 freeway.

View Property

28080 N 101st Street Unit 116 Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,750,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,846 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6696862

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Enjoy the luxury of the LaScala Terracina home, located in the prestigious Estancia community with prime southeast exposure. This residence features a sophisticated office space and a custom-built entertainment cabinet. The patio is equipped with a spa and a gas grill for optimal relaxation and entertaining. The home showcases a classic European design, highlighted by meticulous attention to detail and the use of high-quality materials and finishes. Estancia offers residents exclusive amenities, including a championship golf course, state-of-the-art fitness center, and private access to hiking trails. The gated community ensures privacy and security, making it a perfect sanctuary for those seeking a luxurious and peaceful living environment.

View Property

6450 E Fanfol Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$2,750,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,465 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780683

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

PARADISE VALLEY CANVAS: START CREATING YOUR DREAM! Rare opportunity to customize & build your dream home in a quiet & peaceful neighborhood in coveted PV. A classic mid-century modern w/ butterfly roof, stacked stone, and horseshoe paver driveway is perfectly positioned on an oversized North/South lot! The property is currently taken down to the studs, but has a resort pool, & built-in BBQ, and abundant room to build a sport court/pickleball court, guest casita, addt'l garages, or the farm-to-table garden of your dreams! Near Scottsdale's Three C's Schools, Gainey Hyatt Resort, developing Ritz-Carlton, shopping, dining & endless entertainment! Full AIA architectural plans designed to expand the existing home to 5,824sqft are ready for permit submission & available w/ the sale.

View Property

7740 E Santa Catalina Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,750,000

5 Beds

5 Baths

5,371 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6774091

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover your dream home in the heart of the Sonoran Desert! This beautifully appointed property offers a perfect blend of modern elegance and timeless charm.The recently updated Gourmet Kitchen boasts new cabinets '' Vittara Crystal'' Quartzite countertops with a waterfall island along with Sub-Zero, Wolf, Cove and Scotsman appliances.This meticulously designed and maintained home has an expansive outdoor living area with a sparkling pool, hot tub and putting green, perfect for entertaining or unwinding. Located in a very desirable neighborhood with top-rated schools, parks and dining options nearby, this home is perfect for families or anyone seeking a vibrant community.

View Property

16122 E Tombstone Avenue Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$2,750,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,435 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6659474

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Backing to FireRock Country Club #14 tees and fairway, this new contemporary SW home is the ultimate setting for entertaining. Featuring a 460 ft casita, pool, spa and full-size RV garage, the home is perched on over a half-acre. Completion expected October, 2024. The very open and large Great Room features 16' X 10' stacking slider doors to views and a 60' electric fireplace. The kitchen features a 10' island, offers Shaker style cabinetry to 10' height, SS Frigidaire Pro Series appliances w/full size refrigerator and freezer plus a 139-bottle wine captain. All bedrooms are large and fully suited to custom closeting, plus a den/office. The Casita features a private bedroom plus a hospitality area. The large 5+ car garage features an RV bay with 14' door and 16' ceilings.

View Property

1831 E Palmaire Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85020

$2,750,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

5,186 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781630

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream eco-friendly home, built by Blue Sky Homes, recognized as Arizona's top sustainable builder for two consecutive years by Green Living magazine. This High-Performance Home showcases 5,186 square feet of artistic architecture with 5 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms, all designed for a healthier living environment. Offering 50% more energy efficiency than standard new builds, this home features Energy Star and Indoor AirPlus Certifications, ensuring significant cost savings. Abundant natural light streams through expansive windows, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere throughout. The open kitchen seamlessly connects to the dining and gathering room, highlighting a striking 60-inch linear gas fireplace. Culinary enthusiasts will appreciate the kitchen's high-end Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances, guaranteeing a luxurious and functional cooking experience. The standout primary suite has exclusive access to a private courtyard and outdoor shower, and is beautifully enhanced by a magnificent freestanding bathtub, and separate vanities. All the bedrooms are equipped with ensuite bathrooms for added privacy and convenience. A dedicated office or den provides a perfect space for work or study, while a flex teen space with a dry bar offers a versatile area for relaxation or entertainment. Stroll out to the large terrace for an evening sip, or meander down the spiral staircase to the inviting pool for a twilight swim. Nestled in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, this brand-new Blue Sky Home is surrounded by 360-degree city lights and mountain views. Located just moments from world-class dining, shopping, hiking and biking trails, and Sky Harbor Airport, it epitomizes modern luxury.

View Property

2916 E Arrowhead Trail Gilbert, AZ 85297

$2,750,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

5,300 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786943

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This spectacular home was renovated in 2021, by previous owners! It is modernly updated, refreshing in its palette and understated in its elegance. It offers amazing private amenities and a plethora of entertaining spaces you'll be proud to own. Positioned on an enormously lot and pleasantly quiet street in a gated luxury neighborhood in Gilbert. It's split floor plan is perfection w/highlights including: 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms- that includes a guest room with private ensuite & exterior entrance, a full office, a large bonus room currently used as an in-home gym, custom 6 person infrared sauna in master bathroom, 4-car garage, 2 pickleball or 1/2 basketball court, an RV gate, and 1 pool cabana complete w/wet bar kitchenette! Furniture + more included- Seller will carry, ask for terms! The grand primary suite showcases soft carpet, direct outdoor access, a walk-in closet, and a pristine bath w/dual vanities & a small sauna room! other bedrooms enjoy access to a Jack & Jill bath for added convenience. Double doors open up to a sizeable den, and don't forget about the exercise room! Lastly, the expansive backyard includes a covered patio w/an outdoor fireplace, paver seating area, a basketball court, a detached bonus room, and a refreshing pool/spa combo as well as a refreshing hot tub! Your new home is waiting for you, act now!

View Property

19778 E Sonoqui Boulevard Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$2,750,000

3 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,407 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6742898

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Prepare to be amazed! Check out this luxurious home now for sale in Circle G at Queen Creek! Nestled on an oversized corner. Walk up to a gorgeous front courtyard with a beautiful outdoor fireplace featuring a stunning facade w/stone accents, lush green landscape, circular paver driveway, 3 car garage plus a detached 40 x 60 RV garage, huge motor court perfect for car lovers, and 2 RV gates! Open the door to a spacious open floor plan w/beamed ceilings, elegant wood-look tile flooring, and a linear fireplace. The chef's kitchen is comprised of custom cabinetry w/quartzsite countertops, 60'' Viking Stove with Double Ovens, 60'' Viking Fridge/Freezer, an additional wall oven/Microwave, pendant lighting, stylish backsplash, a breakfast nook, and a 16 ft island complete w/a breakfast bar. You'll also find a formal dining room w/an accent wall and plantation shutters, perfect for hosting dinner parties. End your busy day in the primary bedroom, boasting private outdoor access, a walk-in closet, and a lavish ensuite w/dual vanities. Don't forget about the cozy den, ideal for an office or lounge area. The laundry room has a dog washing station. Attached to the 40 x 60 RV garage is a 12 x 24 casita with it's own bathroom and small kitchen. All of the gas features are fed by a 1000 gallon propane tank. Finally, the wonderful backyard includes a covered patio, extended seating area, a 3rd fireplace, fire pit, a built-in BBQ containing a flat top grill, a charcoal grill, & 2 large burners, margarita station, a lovely pergola, and a sparkling blue pool! This is the opportunity of a lifetime, hurry and act now!

View Property

2144 E San Juan Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85016

$2,750,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

3,480 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763200

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning 5-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom home offers modern elegance in one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Phoenix. Featuring an open-concept layout, the gourmet kitchen includes high-end finishes, a large walk-in pantry, and a spacious island. The home boasts smart technology, built-in speakers, and a custom bar that opens to the backyard perfect for entertaining. The luxurious master suite includes a spa-like bath and a huge walk-in closet, with each bedroom offering its own private ensuite. Additional highlights include a three-car garage, RV gate, large backyard, and a prime location near the Biltmore Shopping Center and Biltmore Golf Club.

View Property

4420 N 29th Street Phoenix, AZ 85016

$2,750,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,811 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744731

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This exquisite single-family residence offers over 3,800 square feet of luxurious living space, featuring 4 spacious ensuite bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. Nestled on a nearly 13,000 square foot lot on a cul-de-sac, this home boasts breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak. Step inside to discover high ceilings that create an airy ambiance, complemented by an abundance of natural light throughout. 10 foot tall multi-slide doors, butted glass windows & staircase, imported large format tile, temperature controlled walk-in wine storage & hardwood floors set this masterpiece apart. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with top-of-the-line Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, perfectly suited for culinary enthusiasts. Enjoy hosting family gatherings with the convenience of a secondary kitchen and multiple living areas that provide ample space for relaxation and entertainment. The outdoor oasis features a sparkling pool, ideal for cooling off during those warm Phoenix days or enjoying sunset views with friends and family. The property also includes a 3-car garage and electric vehicle outlets, ensuring your modern lifestyle is accommodated with ease. Don't miss this unique opportunity to own a slice of paradise in one of Phoenix's most sought-after locations. Experience the perfect blend of luxury and comfort!

View Property