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

9409 E Nacoma Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$585,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,443 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6713360

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Pride of ownership is apparent in this 3 bedroom, 3 bath home in the gated active adult community of Oakwood CC. The casita with separate entrance provides flexibility for guests, a home office or exercise studio. Entertain in the great room or family room with adjacent kitchen and breakfast nook. Granite counters, SS appliances, newer paint and hardware with loads of cupboard space. Retire to the primary suite with patio access, walk in closet, dual split sinks and separate shower and tub. Guests will appreciate the spacious bedroom with walk in closet and nearby bath. New AC in 2021. Newer wood look tile flooring with some carpeted areas. You'll love the large picture windows and slider leading to the backyard with expanded covered patio and lush landscaping. See upgrade list.

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7500 E Deer Valley Road Unit 68 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$585,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,358 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6714999

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller may carry. Best offering in North Scottsdale. Priced to sell Freshly painted interior will impress you, showcasing a large living room bathed in natural light, ideal for entertaining or relaxation. The kitchen displays fluorescent lighting, plenty of honey oak cabinets, built-in appliances, and a bright dining area with sliding glass doors to the back patio. Make the flexible den with double doors a media room or extra bedroom for your guests. Take a look at the spacious primary retreat, which provides a walk-in closet and private bathroom. The secondary bedroom has a mirrored door closet. A washer and dryer are included! The backyard has a covered patio where you can sit and relax after a hard day's work. This rare find won't disappoint!

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7102 W Windrose Drive Peoria, AZ 85381

$585,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,532 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6721103

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SELLER OFFERING CONCESSIONS! Welcome to this modern home nestled on a large corner lot with an RV GATE offering 5 bedrooms & 3 full-sized bathrooms, & a secondary owner's suite in the basement. The main level features 3 bedrooms, including the master bedroom upstairs with walk-in closets. REMODELED bathrooms and a laundry chute to enhance the comfort & functionality of the home. Natural light shines through plantation shutters, creating a bright atmosphere. The basement adds 2 bedrooms, a WET BAR, & a full-sized bathroom to be used as a guest room or for entertaining extended family members. Outside, the backyard is a serene retreat with mature greenery providing privacy & a perfect backdrop for relaxation or outdoor activities.

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3161 W Frankfurt Drive Chandler, AZ 85226

$585,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,024 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760217

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful one-level home exudes charm and comfort with its expansive open floor plan and high ceilings, creating a bright and airy atmosphere throughout. Recently updated with fresh paint inside and out, along with updated carpets. The master suite is a true retreat, featuring a full spa-style bathroom with a soaking tub and walk-in shower—perfect for unwinding. The outdoor living area is equally impressive, boasting a sparkling pool and an extended patio, offering plenty of space for lounging, dining, and entertaining. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet evening by the pool, this home provides the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor living. Don't miss your chance to make this exceptional property your own!

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22740 N 74th Lane Glendale, AZ 85310

$585,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,242 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748677

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Situated on a great lot in the community of Hillcrest this 4 bedroom 2 bath home has everything you are looking for. Great curb appeal with new exterior paint in 2021. Step inside to beautiful inlaid tile in neutral colors, large open living room with art niches, vaulted ceilings and bright open windows. Open kitchen with plenty of cabinet and counters space, kitchen island and great spot for a dining table - all over looking the cozy family room. Nice primary bedroom with ensuite bath featuring a step in shower, soaking tub and dual vanities. Beautiful back yard with large covered patio, sparkling pool/spa with rock accents, grassy area, and mature landscaping. New roof in 2017; New heat pump/AC in 2018; New water heater 2023. No neighbors behind you. Low HOA! So much to love!!

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11410 N 50th Lane Glendale, AZ 85304

$585,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,782 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755548

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Former Model Home...Inviting 5 bedroom, 3 full bathrooms! Real wood plantation shutters, recess lighting, 8 foot doors and closets, 5 inch base boards throughout home. Gorgeous kitchen w/ white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite counter top, and an island w/ a breakfast bar. Spacious primary bedroom w/ large walk in closet, double sinks w/ subway tiled walk in shower. Primary bedroom PLUS 2 additional bedrooms and another bath downstairs! Large loft, 2 more bedrooms and a bath upstairs. Energy efficient spray foam insulation keeps electric bills low. Laundry room w/ sink and custom cabinets downstairs. Dreamy backyard showcases a covered patio, pavers, built-in BBQ, a fire pit, & an enticing pool for year-round entertainment! A MUST SEE!!

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4810 N 74th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$585,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,236 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767229

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

MODERN CANAL RETREAT Tucked into the heart of Scottsdale's historic district, this gorgeous 2-bedroom, 2-full bath home in coveted Villa Monterey 55+ community is a true gem. Step into a light & bright sanctuary that exudes warmth & comfort. Formal dining area invites you to host intimate gatherings, while the completely updated interior flows effortlessly into the serene backyard with private canal access. With over $130,000 in upgrades, every corner of this home has been meticulously crafted. From the new Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) floors to the upgraded modern kitchen, walnut interior doors, no detail has been overlooked. New roof (2019), HVAC (2023), appliances and more all recently replaced. Open-Concept Closets in both bedrooms. Front-facing kitchen with new modern pull out cabinets, new LVP plank (6x9) flooring, and smooth texture walls throughout. Enjoy the fully upgraded, spa-like bathrooms that include a deep soaking bathtub & walk-in shower. Coveted side yard and laundry room are added bonuses. Well designed, low maintenance landscaping is easy to maintain. Community Pool & Spa, Located directly on the canal, this property is minutes away from Old Town Scottsdale, Spring Training facilities, shopping, restaurants, art galleries, and the renowned Talking Stick Resort, the possibilities for entertainment & adventure are endless. Walk out your back gate and explore the vibrant community, stroll along scenic walking and biking paths, or simply bask in the Arizona sunshine.

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3706 S Cottonwood Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$585,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,669 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768193

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, single-story home with a 2-car garage and no HOA! Recently renovated within the last 5 years, including a new A/C unit, this home features hard floors throughout and an open-concept kitchen with granite countertops. The exterior boasts fresh paint, a low-maintenance yard, and a sparkling PebbleTec diving pool. The spacious covered patio is ideal for entertaining. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, entertainment, the 101/60 freeways, and Ehrhardt Park. This home is the perfect blend of style, comfort, and location!

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4077 S Sabrina Drive Unit 71 Chandler, AZ 85248

$585,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

1,775 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768414

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning home in the Echelon At Ocotillo Community in South Chandler. This end unit boasts an abundance of natural light and windows creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. Well laid pavers in the front patio make it a great place to sit and watch the sunset. The gourmet kitchen includes quartz counter tops, new upgraded LG smart appliances with refrigerator connected to the RO for water, regular ice and craft ice spheres, plus lower kitchen cabinets & pantry with convenient pull outs. Smart home system with ring doorbell, programmable thermostats and smart garage door opener. One bedroom and full bath on the first level, three bedrooms and two bath rooms on the second level. Walk-in shower in master bathroom. Additional features, ceiling fans, steel security front door, full driveway with two car garage. Community amenities include a playground , gorgeous community pool and spa for your enjoyment. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make this house your new home.

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7807 E Mckinley Street Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$585,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,590 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768199

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

It's just a short drive to Old Town, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Step inside this beautifully decorated home featuring wood-look floors and an inviting great room bathed in natural light. The sleek kitchen is a culinary delight, with abundant cabinets, stainless appliances, a stylish tile backsplash, ample counter space, and a convenient breakfast bar. Retreat to the main suite, which offers direct access to the serene backyard, a private bathroom with stylish tiles, and a spacious walk-in closet. The backyard offers a covered patio, artificial turf, and plenty of space for fun barbecues and gatherings. Within walking distance of the Salt Cellar, McKellips Lake, and Scottsdale parks. Don't miss this opportunity! Make it yours today!

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5831 W Pine Cove Prescott, AZ 86305

$585,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,057 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772452

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home tucked away on a serene, pine-covered .93 acre lot in Highland Pines. Offering 2,057 sq. ft. of living space, this mountain retreat features a great room with soaring ceilings, rustic wood accents, and a cozy wood-burning stove. The dining room's wall of windows provides breathtaking views of the surrounding pines. Step outside onto the deck to take in the panoramic scenery. Additional amenities include a one-car garage, asphalt driveway, brick paver paths, and a fenced dog run. This home is truly a peaceful getaway in the Pines with modern comforts!

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1354 W Nido Avenue Mesa, AZ 85202

$585,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,616 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769367

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in sought after community of Dobson Ranch!! This beautifully designed 4-bedroom residence offers a perfect blend of comfort and style, ideal for those seeking spacious living with community amenities. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an inviting open floor plan that seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas, creating a warm atmosphere for gatherings and entertaining. This home provides trending designs with remodeled bathrooms, remodeled kitchen, and new LVP flooring throughout the home. Dobson Ranch is a sought after Southeast Valley community boasting 1 of the best municipal golf clubs in the City and this home Just doors away from the Dobson Community La Casita rec Center. HVAC 2023, Roof 2010.

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