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

21723 E Roundup Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$595,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,390 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6702192

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Light Sky Ranch and the Pinecrest plan! This home boasts 2390 square feet of meticulously crafted living space. With three bedrooms, two and a half baths, and a dedicated study, every corner of this home is designed with purpose. The kitchen features quartz countertops, upgraded shaker cabinets, and a central island that doubles as a culinary hub and gathering place. The owner's suite with en-suite bath, offers an over-sized walk-in closet. Outside, both a single-car garage & a 2-car garage offer ample storage for vehicles, outdoor gear, and more, ensuring both convenience and practicality. With amenities like a tankless water heater for efficiency and a charming paver driveway, this home harmoniously blends convenience and sophistication.

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29427 N 31st Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$595,990

5 Beds

3 Baths

1,953 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771758

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Ask about special financing with preferred lender! This single-story home features ample space for growing families. Four bedrooms are lined up in a neat row, including the owner's suite, while an additional bedroom near the entry offers an ideal space for overnight guests. An open floorplan hosts the kitchen, dining room and Great Room with a spacious covered patio attached. Photos are renderings of a model home, not the actual home. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.

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23505 E Cactus Forest Road Florence, AZ 85132

$595,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766695

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

NEW BUILD - 4 BEDROOM, 2 BATH HOME WITH 3 CAR GARAGE ON OVER AN ACRE OF LAND!! This Stunner offers 2000 SqFt with an Open Kitchen/Dining/Family Room plan. With Fans, White Cabinets, Stainless Appliances, Quartz Countertops, Upgraded Doors and Wood Plank Tile throughout, you won't find better!! The Bedrooms are spacious, Owner's Suite Offers Walk-in Closet and Frameless Glass Enclosure with Tile Surround. Extended 3 Car Garage, Covered Patio and room for all your Trailers, Toys and Storage. See it today!!

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10103 E Plata Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$595,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,146 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752877

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller will help pay Buyers Closing Cost/Rate Buy Down w/Right Offer! Beautifully Remodeled Home in the HIGHLY DESIRED Santa Rita Ranch Community. Complete Remodel includes NEW CABINETS, Fixtures, Flooring throughout,Quartz Counters, Paint, HVAC (2019). No Expense Spared. This charming home has 4 OVERSIZED Bedrooms, and 3 FULLY REMODELED baths. LOW maintenance TURF in both front and back yards. The backyard boasts a HUGE covered patio for entertaining along with a FULLY featured PEBBLETEC POOL with large GREENBELT backing the home for an airy and private experience. This home is centrally located near valley freeways, award winning Shopping/Restaurants and GILBERT Schools. This home WILL EXCEED all your expectations.

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2214 S Las Flores -- Mesa, AZ 85202

$595,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,029 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783800

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully remodeled home, featuring modern upgrades and an inviting open layout. The kitchen is a standout, complete with a large peninsula, brand new stainless steel appliances, and sleek white cabinetry, offering both style and functionality for culinary pursuits. The living area is bright and welcoming, with updated lighting and a chic accent ceiling. The home has updated bathrooms with elegant finishes, new flooring throughout, and thoughtfully chosen fixtures that enhance its modern appeal. New AC, Water Heater and roof. Each room has been designed with attention to detail, creating a cohesive and fresh living space. Outside, you'll find a spacious backyard with low-maintenance landscaping, perfect for enjoying Arizona's outdoor lifestyle. Welcome Home

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3968 E Gold Mountain Avenue San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$595,791

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,146 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6749023

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous new home in Bella Vista Farms, located in San Tan Valley. The community offers access to the community pool, playground, basketball court, and volleyball court. Enjoy designer selections throughout the home including a GE Gourmet kitchen appliance package with a gas cooktop, Hana Sky Quartz countertops in the kitchen, Polaris Plus LVP, upgraded carpets, Aristokraft cabinets in flagstone, and a frameless walk-in shower in the primary bathroom. Other highlights include a split floor plan, north/south exposure, and a pool sized homesite. Utilities include Mesa Gas, EPCOR water, and Rural Metro.

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11432 S 208th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85326

$595,500

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,386 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780972

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the rapidly growing town of Buckeye! This stunning, newly built home features 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and sits on over an acre of horse property, offering ample room for relaxation and recreation. Inside, you'll be greeted by an open floor concept with beautiful tile flooring that flows seamlessly throughout the home. The gourmet kitchen features quartz countertops and a large central island that provides plenty of space for preparing meals and gathering with friends and family. The 3-car garage with an epoxy finish offers both style and functionality. The landscaped front yard adds curb appeal and includes an auto-timed irrigation system. Don't miss the chance to make this beautiful Buckeye property your forever home!

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4274 Old Orchard Drive Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$595,500

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,968 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784828

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Dorn home situated on an oversized lot with completely repainted interior! Primary Bedroom situated in the back corner of home over looking common area & features Dual Sinks, Stunning Walk in Shower & Spacious Closet. Guest Suite at the front of the home w/Hall bath and Barn Door to make your guest suite private. Enclosed Office/Den space that could double as an additional Guest Bedroom. Kitchen features Corner Pantry, Large Center Island, SS Appliances, Breakfast Bar and designated Dining Area. Great Room w/prewired surround sound and Multiple sliding doors that lead out to covered patio and spacious backyard. 3 Car Garage w/built in storage and epoxy flooring.

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2725 E Quiet Hollow Lane Phoenix, AZ 85024

$595,444

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,829 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762893

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into this stunning single-story home, where modern comfort meets the tranquility of Arizona's breathtaking landscape. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with no neighbors behind you, allowing for unobstructed views of the serene desert vistas. As you enter, you'll be greeted by a spacious open floor plan, perfect for entertaining or cozy family gatherings. The abundant natural light enhances the inviting atmosphere, seamlessly connecting the living area to the heart of the home.The private backyard paradise, features both a beautiful pool and a covered patio. Whether you're lounging poolside or enjoying a quiet evening under the stars, this outdoor space is the perfect retreat.

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972 E Mulberry Place -- Chandler, AZ 85286

$595,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,292 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6638746

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Charming 3 bedroom and 2 bath home in new Chandler community. Hamilton Landing includes 36 single level homes each with their own front porch, private driveway for 2 vehicles and a single car garage and a small, pet friendly rear yard. Each home has 10' flat ceilings, white cabinets, luxury vinyl plank flooring in every room, two tone paint, beautiful wood trim around windows and doors and granite/quartz countertops in the kitchen and baths. The community includes a dog park with a covered ramada. These homes will be ready for occupancy between March and June of 2024. All photos are of a similar home completed in a previous community.

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28409 N 451st Avenue Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$595,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,680 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6685093

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Amazing off the grid Santa Fe style house located on 30 acres!! This beautiful 2016 manufactured home has great living spaces with tons of natural light, neutral colors, modern appliances, walk-in pantry and spacious rooms. Private well! The solar is owned outright and has batteries and a generator. The home also has propane gas for heating and cooking. Sitting on a hill it offers unparalleled views!! Also comes with covered corrals, tack room and storage area and entire property is fenced. This home is also listed with only 10 acres, at reduced price. See the semi-private remarks for details.

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41225 N 253rd Avenue Morristown, AZ 85342

$595,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,456 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772930

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Discover the perfect blend of modern living and western charm in this 2021-built home, situated on a sprawling 3.9-acre horse property in Morristown, AZ. With 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this home offers an open, inviting floor plan and mountain views from every angle. Horse enthusiasts will love the six spacious horse pens, all equipped with power and water supply, along with a convenient round pen for training. Enjoy serene evenings on the covered patio, taking in the picturesque surroundings. This property not only provides a tranquil rural lifestyle but also the opportunity for future development, as it can be split. Whether you're looking to expand or create a custom space, the possibilities are endless. Great opportunity to own a move-in ready home on prime horse property just a short drive from the conveniences of town!

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