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

40937 N Majesty Way Anthem, AZ 85086

$595,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,469 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6750370

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

*VA ASSUMABLE LOAN AT 3%. LEASED SOLAR PAID OFF.* Location is everything! This home is settled in a quiet neighborhood with a trail entrance right next door connecting you to 13 miles of lush desert trails, 2 parks within a 5-minute trail walk, and the K-8 elementary school is just blocks away. Not to mention the one-of-a-kind comraderie and sense of community this neighborhood offers. This spacious ''Tradition'' floor plan is coveted for it's vaulted ceilings throughout the living space, and fluid layout perfect for hosting and family-time. The large kitchen island, pantry, and wall of cabinets creates the ultimate culinary experience. Conveniently located on the main floor, the extra large primary suite has private backyard access and a large walk in closet. Maintaining privacy, the 3 additional bedrooms and full bathroom are located upstairs. With the 3-car garage, overhead garage storage, multiple walk in closets, custom built-in bookcases, storage under the stairs, and an RV-gate, this property provides all the storage a family could need! This property is on a premium lot where you can enjoy the beautifully designed and low-maintenance backyard with synthetic grass, pavers, a large extended covered patio, and a view fence showing off stunning desert scenery and colorful sunsets!

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7701 E Palm Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$595,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,575 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6767591

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Well cared for, a 3 bedroom home with 2baths ,2 car garage ,that is move in ready or ready for you to update to your liking! New AC and water heater in last 24 months, seller even had the sewer pipes sleeved as a preventative measure in the last year. Ample living space inside the home and a beautiful flagstone patio with built in grill and all around new patio covering . Wonderful opportunity in a highly desired Scottsdale subdivision brought to you at a bargain price. You cannot find a better price for a home in this condition with a wood burning fireplace to boot. Shopping within walking distance, and very near Old Town Scottsdale. Walk your dog, ride your bike, or play sports at El Dorado Park across the street. Owner occupied only. See lister for more details

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656 W Minton Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$595,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,187 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6768583

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Move in ready super clean two-story home. Cheery and bright throughout with no carpet! This home has been freshly painted, and updated with new granite countertops, new kitchen sink, new light fixtures and faucets replaced. Great 3 bed 2.5 bath open spacious light & bright floorplan. Family room open to kitchen separate Formal living and dining. Ample storage space, Upstairs loft area with built in desk and shelving. Well laid out backyard with mature landscaping, pool and spa. RV gate and extra concrete slab on side of home. Home has a whole home water filtration system to be able to drink from any faucet. Must see home in a fabulous Tempe location near ASU, the I-10, the 60, the airport, and just minutes from Downtown, convenience is at your doorstep.

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7674 E Whispering Mesquite Lane Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$595,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,922 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6774751

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located in the desirable Mountainbrook Village community, this home offers stunning golf course and mountain views. This beautifully updated home features two primary bedrooms, vaulted ceilings, massive windows, and a spacious layout with high-end finishes like granite countertops and plantation shutters. Enjoy outdoor living with a tiled courtyard, covered patio, and air-conditioned garage with a separate workshop. With a central vacuum system, soft water, and RO systems, this home blends comfort and convenience, perfect for enjoying the best of Gold Canyon living. Mountainbrook Village is a scenic golf course community set against the stunning Superstition Mountains. It offers beautifully designed homes and resort-style amenities, including a golf course, fitness facilities, and social clubs. With a relaxed yet active lifestyle, it's perfect for those seeking a peaceful desert setting with plenty of recreational opportunities.

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7838 E Buena Terra Way Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$595,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,485 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6775629

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This gorgeous single level, move-in ready townhome has a split floor plan with two oversized bedrooms both ensuite, a gorgeous shady patio, 2 car attached garage, excellent curb appeal with a gated private front patio. Home is located directly next to the heated community pool and spa. Newer water heater (2020) roof has been completely resealed (2020), New A/C (2020) The updated eat-in kitchen offers upgraded cabinetry, quartz counters, tile backsplash, chrome hardware, and newer appliances and hood. The open great room has a vaulted ceiling with painted beams, fireplace, and wet bar with upgraded cabinetry and quartz counters. Other features include hexagon tile flooring, luxury vinyl flooring, upgraded porcelain tile bathroom flooring. No carpet throughout. Gorgeous lush patios.

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8874 S Grandview Drive Tempe, AZ 85284

$595,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,794 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781939

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home to this beautifully remodeled single-story property in Warner Ranch, designed with style and comfort in mind! This 3-bed, 2-bath, 1,794 sq ft residence highlights modern upgrades and an inviting layout with vaulted ceilings, a decorative stone fireplace, and spacious bedrooms. The NEW ROOF and NEWER HVAC unit provide invaluable peace of mind and energy efficiency, ensuring comfort for years to come. Additional improvements most recently completed encompass fresh paint, new quartz countertops in the kitchen and baths, elegant tile backsplashes, updated tiled tubs and showers, new flooring, and stylish plumbing and lighting fixtures. The private backyard is perfect for relaxation, while the HOA maintains a lush front yard. Located in the highly regarded Kyrene School District, this home is part of a quaint community with beautiful walking trails, a pool, and easy freeway access to I-10, 101, and 202, offering a seamless commute. Experience the perfect blend of convenience, charm, and modern design in this Warner Ranch gem!

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41961 W Lucera Lane Maricopa, AZ 85138

$595,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,283 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769687

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning home with Pool, Workshop, and 4-Car Garage in Glennwilde. PRE PAID SOLAR.. enjoy the benefits of solar without a payment! Welcome to this expansive 4-bedroom home, plus a den and a loft, located in the desirable Glennwilde community of Maricopa. This home offers a spacious layout perfect for any lifestyle. Downstairs, you'll find a formal dining room, a breakfast nook, and a large kitchen featuring rich cherry cabinets, dark granite countertops, and plenty of cabinet space. There's also a bedroom and a full bathroom on the first floor for added convenience as well as an office that could easily be converted into a 5th bedroom. Upstairs, the oversized loft provides flexible space for a home office, playroom, or anything your heart desires. The built-in desk in the hallway adds a practical touch. The oversized master bedroom include a separate sitting area, ideal for an office or additional lounging space. The master bathroom boasts a large soaking tub, separate vanities, and a massive walk-in closet. Sitting on over a quarter-acre, the backyard is one of the largest in Maricopa. It features a large pool with a seating bench and water feature, a serene rock waterfall pond, a gazebo with a cozy sitting area, a workshop, and a covered patio with pull-down shade screens. There's plenty of room to create your dream outdoor oasis. A rare 4-car garage provides ample space for vehicles, storage, and toys. Located in Glennwilde, the community offers 2 sparkling pools, walking paths, and is within walking distance of Pacana Park. Don't miss this rare find in one of Maricopa's most sought-after neighborhoods!

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7610 W Orangewood Avenue Glendale, AZ 85303

$595,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,105 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782224

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Huge lot Ranch and horse property in the middle of the West Vally. More than half an acre for your RV, boat and toys. Two way fireplace from master bedroom to living room. HOME CONVEYS AS-IS AND VERIFY ALL IMPORTANT INFORMATION NECESSARY at BUYER'S EXPENSE. HOME INSPECTION ENCOURAGED. SELLER WILL NOT DO REPAIRS OR CLEANING. NO SIGN ON PROPERTY. With some updating & proper cleanup this property will be a lot more than the asking price. Compare the price on the active listing on the same street.

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1341 Leisure World -- Mesa, AZ 85206

$595,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,882 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6787238

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Enjoy this Amazingly Beautiful FULLY REMODELED 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 Car Garage Home on #4 of Heron Lakes Golf Course! The front entrance with aluminum pergola is very inviting! Enter into the very open and spacious home with vaulted ceilings, recessed lighting and upgraded ceiling fans. Your Dream Kitchen w/large Peninsula style Island, Granite countertops, all 2024 Appliances is great for anyone who loves to cook and entertain! The living & Dining space have beautiful golf course views! The Large Primary Bedroom has a HUGE Closet done by Classy Closets! Enjoy Entertaining on the resort style back patio with travertine tiles. All this in the Premiere Active Adult Community of Leisure World with 36 holes of private golf, new tennis complex, pickle ball, swimming pools, library, and more!

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22033 N Golf Club Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$595,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,656 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766525

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the vibrant, active adult community of Sun City West! Perfectly located near the Palm Ridge Recreation Center and surrounded by multiple golf courses, this beautifully updated home offers the ideal blend of modern comfort and resort-style living. In 2024, the home received significant updates, including sleek granite countertops, most new appliances, and upgraded light and plumbing fixtures throughout. The majority of the home features elegant tile flooring, with plush carpet in the Den and master bedroom for added comfort. The updates also include taller baseboards and fresh interior paint, giving the entire space a crisp, modern feel. As you step inside, you're greeted by a grand entrance, soaring ceilings, and a spacious open floor plan filled with natural light. This clean, bright home offers plenty of room for both entertaining and relaxation. The 2.5-car garage provides ample space for parking and storage, making it ideal for your vehicles and hobbies. The home is situated on a quiet street with minimal traffic, offering peace and privacy. Outside, the fenced lot features an array of mature citrus trees, creating your own private oasis. With its close proximity to the Palm Ridge Recreation Center and numerous nearby golf courses, this home is perfectly positioned for an active, enjoyable lifestyle. Don't miss your chance to own this stunning, move-in-ready home!

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5336 N 20th Street Phoenix, AZ 85016

$595,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,965 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775489

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Perfectly positioned between North Central and Biltmore, this beautifully updated 2 bedroom, 2 bath townhome offers the perfect blend of modern upgrades and timeless charm. The front courtyard is perfect for quiet moments or entertaining guests, and leads to a great room with expansive celestory windows that bathe the living space in natural light. Enjoy a modernized kitchen with quartzite counters, shaker cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. Relax in fully updated bathrooms, including a jacuzzi tub in the primary suite. Enjoy peace of mind of ownership with major replacements already having been performed; HVAC (2020), roof (2022), windows & sliding glass door (2023). Situated in the highly sought-after Madison School District blocks away from Phoenix's top entertainiment options

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22 Pine Del Drive Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$595,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,704 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6638531

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Huge Price Reduction, will go quick! Discover your new haven in the Pines! This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home boasts an open living area with luxury vinyl flooring throughout and cozy new carpet in all the bedrooms. Enjoy the comfort of new windows and a brand-new central heating and AC system. The modern kitchen features stainless steel appliances and stunning quartz countertops. With new lighting fixtures and fresh paint both inside and out, this mountain retreat is move-in ready!

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