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

22685 E Saddle Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$579,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,506 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6740903

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**This is a TO-BE-BUILT LISTING, this home is ready for personalization and can be built on your choice of homesite. This is an advertisement of our base price for this elevation and lot premiums may apply** Welcome to Ashton Woods newest community in Queen Creek - Madera Marquis - which features outstanding community amenities and convenient access to the 24 freeway and shopping. The open concept Topaz plan is highly sought after and is the decorated model floorplan with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Options for structural upgrades include adding a butler's pantry, teen room, 12'' sliding glass door and so much more. This home includes an open concept kitchen with granite countertops, 42'' upper cabinets, and stainless steel appliances . Amazing spa like primary suite with dual vanities, ample linen storage and separate tub and shower. This floorplan is accompanied by an oversized den and sizable secondary bedrooms. This home comes standard with 10' ceilings, front yard landscaping, paver driveway, and much more! ~There is a minimum option spend requirement on new build homes, please reach out to the sales office for additional details.~

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32405 N 122nd Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$579,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,373 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748747

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6748747~January Completion! The Erikson floor plan at Mystic Discovery exemplifies open concept living and is perfect for entertaining on both floors! The first floor is the heart of the home, with an open main living area that holds a spacious gathering room with a casual dining area and an open kitchen. The designer kitchen features a large island and step-in pantry. A downstairs guest bedroom is located at the front of the home which is perfect for overnight guests. Upstairs, the owner's suite features a garden tub and shower and a spacious walk-in closet. A loft and two additional bedrooms and the laundry room round out this lovely home. Structural options include: paver front porch, 2' garage extension, super shower at owner's bath, and soft water loop.

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16728 W Saguaro Park Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,529 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770954

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Up to 3% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available through preferred lender. The Parklane floor plan offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a 4' garage extension, no-step walk-in shower, and 8' interior doors. Additional highlights include built-in appliances, quartz kitchen countertops, a gas stub in the kitchen, a backyard perfect for BBQs, and a gas dryer connection in the laundry.

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16405 W Desert Mirage Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$579,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,623 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754285

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! It's the stunning Topaz with 4 bedrooms + study and 3 full baths. Multi slide door off the great room that leads out to the extended covered patio. Stainless steel gas appliance package with 30'' cooktop, wall oven, micro, and hood. Barnett Maple ''Boulder-(Gray) cabinets with 42'' kitchen uppers, pull out trash drawer with two bins. AZT Hana Sky quartz countertops in kitchen and at the enhanced kitchen tops. Stainless steel under mount single bowl sink in the kitchen. DT Broxburn Gray 6x24 plank floor with 5'' baseboards and 3 1/4'' door casings. 8' garage door with two remotes and so much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent. Thank you!

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16421 W Desert Mirage Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$579,990

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,224 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784421

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! Crimson floor plan sitting on a lot that is north/south exposure and backs to landscape area - NO two story homes on either side. Great room concept with 3 bedrooms + den with 2.5 baths and a 3 car garage. Paver drive, walk and entry. Extended covered patio perfect for entertaining. Bay window at owner's suite. Sonoma Maple Linen-off white cabinets with matte black hardware, 42'' kitchen uppers and a pull out trash drawer. Stainless steel gas appliance package with a 30'' cooktop, wall oven, micro and hood. AZT Quartz tawny countertops in kitchen and all baths except powder bath. Upgrade flooring includes Beaumont Olmo 7x24 plank tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms and closets and so much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent. Thank you!

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29317 N 31st Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$579,990

5 Beds

3 Baths

1,953 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6746684

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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15635 W Montecito Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$579,990

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,083 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738508

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Your DREAM home is here in Palm Valley! Bright & light interior showcases neutral paint, recessed lighting, and tile & soft carpet t/out. Featuring a spacious living/dining room and a separate family room w/SURROUND SOUND, you have ideal spaces for relaxation or gatherings! The large kitchen boasts granite counters, a walk-in pantry, a breakfast bar, cozy nook, wood cabinetry w/crown molding, & courtyard access. All bedrooms await upstairs! Oversized main bedroom has a double-door entry, BALCONY access, & a SEATING room! Its ensuite includes dual sinks, separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Discover the entertainer's backyard with a covered patio, lush lawn, well-laid pavers, & a fenced pool for year-round enjoyment! Plenty of room for ALL your TOYS w/ and RV GATE & 3 CAR GARAGE. WOW!

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1205 W Golden Ore Pass Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$579,920

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,575 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765389

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

REDUCED! Experience the unique offerings of this home and buying journey. Welcome to Mariposa at Blossom Rock. The single-story Agave design, presents an open-concept floorplan featuring an inviting kitchen and a bright great room with a separate dining area that seamlessly connects to the private, covered outdoor room. The 3-car garage leads to a convenient drop zone, flex room/office, and more. $57,000 in upgrades are included. ***Special financing options are available.*** Blossom Rock's amenities are designed to inspire outdoor living, including community parks, miles of trails, beautiful lakes, signature events, and more. Moreover, perfect blend of tranquility and adventure to enrich your everyday life.

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26966 N 168th Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,422 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780140

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

FORMER MODEL HOME! This exquisite 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom, single story gem boasting an open concept layout, spacious study, gourmet kitchen, and a center meet 12ft sliding glass door, inviting you out to a fully completed backyard, perfect for entertaining and relaxation! This home is beautifully finished with high-end details throughout, showcasing the latest in modern design. Smart Home technology enhancements that promote comfort and convenience, allowing you to control your environment with ease. Don't miss the chance to own this stunning model home, offering both luxury and functionality in every space! Furniture is not included, but may be offered for an additional fee.

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3487 E Delcoa Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$579,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,595 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738440

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Wow this stunning and turn key home offers all the bells and whistles. home was used as a secondary residence and highly successful short term rentals with the reviews and revenue to prove it. home features updated kitchen, flooring, pool, jacuzzi, designer touches throughout and owner willing to sell with all furniture making this a turn key property.

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20616 N Ventana Drive Sun City, AZ 85373

$579,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,019 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750555

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

2024 OWNED solar! Years w/free electricity & NO loan pmt; 2024 NEW Roof underlayment. 2021 NEW HVAC. Invitingly spacious & delightfully updated home featuring 2 bedrooms w/walk-in closets, 2 updated bathrooms (new walk-in shower in Primary Bath) plus ofc/3rd bed. Filled w/light, elegant finishes & many extras! A tranquil interior pallet of natural hues & tones provides an ideal setting to enjoy the SW lifestyle. Live the Arizona dream as you view stunning sunrises & sunsets from your backyard, surrounded by vibrant colorful landscaping, covered tile patio, exquisite fountain, landscape lighting & misting system that will compliment any outdoor experience. Updated kitchen w/SS appliances, RO, pull-out shelves, island w/drawers, soft close cabinets. Whole home water filtration/softener. Residents in the Ventana Lakes Community enjoy friendly neighbors, four pools, jetted spas, fitness center, sports courts, catch and release fishing & a variety of clubs and activities.

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11337 E Unger Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$579,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,074 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771730

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover modern living with stunning mountain views in this beautifully upgraded Ashton Woods home at Destination at Gateway, built in 2022. Boasting 4 spacious bedrooms, 3 full baths, plus a versatile den/flex space, this home offers everything you need. The open-concept design features wood-like tile floors throughout, a large center sliding door for seamless indoor-outdoor living, and kitchen includes sleek shaker cabinets, built-in Roku lighting, and quartz countertops. Why wait for a new build when this home is move-in ready and feels brand new? Ideally located near the new Fry's, and major freeways (24, 202, and 60), with access to excellent school districts. A must-see in a prime location!

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