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

41 Biltmore Estate Phoenix, AZ 85016

$8,700,000

9 Beds

13 Baths

17,819 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6666273

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

One of the most impressive mansions in Arizona, this grand estate sits on a stunning acre golf course lot at the iconic Arizona Biltmore Resort with spectacular views of Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak. Capturing the essence of a resort that has entertained presidents, dignitaries and Hollywood's elite, the home was designed in an architectural style reminiscent of old-world opulence. Exquisite detail representing only the finest craftsmanship and materials fills its voluminous 17,000+ sq ft of living space. Experience illustrious beauty at every turn. Meander through halls and rooms crafted with intricate tile patterns, hand-carved wood wainscoting, dramatic tray ceilings, wood beams and terracotta tile floors. Well-placed sconces and chandeliers create a warmly elegant ambience

View Property

Cave Creek AZ 85331

$8,500,000

7 Beds

7.5 Baths

3,304 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6722968

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

One of a kind property with potential to create a Retreat on 318 acres in the mountains! A unique opportunity for those with a vision to restore and revitalize. While the Home is currently in need of renovation, it offers immense potential for transformation. Don't miss the chance to unlock the charm of this property. Convenient location near the charming small towns of Cave Creek & Carefree. Once a cherished winter Home with a unique Hacienda design, the Great room, Kitchen, & each of 6 Suites open directly into a central courtyard, providing privacy for all. Embrace the potential to transform into a therapeutic Retreat focused on Healing, Wellness, or Lifestyle. This secluded location offers privacy & a tranquil, inspiring environment. As-Is sale, no repairs made by the Seller.

View Property

9316 E Aw Tillinghast Road Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$8,500,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

5,700 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6583092

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

NOW STAKED & FLAGGED! An incredible 5 acre homesite opportunity to build a 5,700 SF residence with 3 beds, 3 baths & elevated to capture breathtaking views. You may further reimagine this home to perfection; customize it for your lifestyle. This is a very private location with views overlooking golf courses, serene mountain ranges, & stunning Desert Mountain lights that bring enchanting beauty to the environment both day & night. The Ranch & Trails provide hiking & a preserve that borders the 3 million acre Tonto National Forest. Convenient, DUAL access is available through Carefree Ranch, cutting access time in half. For an exclusive 10 acre homesite, see MLS 6583078, the adjacent 5 acre lot to the East. A membership is not included with this offering. Contact Desert Mountain Membership

View Property

10134 E Cavedale Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$8,500,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

5,864 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761870

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Remarkable views from every room of this architecturally stunning new home, but also total privacy. Electric Walls of Glass surround the Great Room to soak in the views and feel the desert breezes. Main house has 3 ensuite bedrooms + an office & wine room. Home is oriented toward mtn peaks & rock formations. Hickory floors & ceilings; Ebony, Bolivian Rosewood, & Walnut cabinets; and custom Walnut doors thru-out. The casita has 2 separate units (a guest suite and a large ensuite flex-bedroom). Everything is a single level. Electric sun shades thru-out the house and blackout shades in main bedrooms. Spacious 4 car garage. Built with exquisite quality by builder who has won numerous awards including National Home of the Year for a prior home, also in Estancia. Taliesin trained architects.

View Property

4723 E Desert Park Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$8,499,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

7,351 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6728915

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled on just under an acre of meticulously landscaped grounds, this luxurious single-level home completed in late 2023, boasts five suites and five and a half bathrooms. The gourmet chef's kitchen is equipped with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, two Cove dishwashers, quartz countertops, and seamlessly integrates to the spacious great room with glass doors that can be pulled back for a seamless indoor outdoor living flow. Throughout the home, European Oak flooring and premier finishes create an atmosphere of elegance. The primary suite is a true retreat within the home, located in its own private wing. The primary bathroom offers separate his and hers areas with two vanities, two walk-in closets, and two private toilet rooms, one with a bidet, ensuring utmost comfort and privacy... On the other end of this private wing is an expansive office, keeping work and rest in perfect proximity. Step outside to discover a breathtaking backyard oasis complete with a pool, spa, BBQ area, fire pit, fireplace, mini-golf course, and thoughtful amenities like built-in misters and heatersall framed by stunning mountain views. Nestled in an exclusive neighborhood with top-rated schools and convenient access to upscale dining and shopping, this residence offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, comfort, and tranquility.

View Property

22803 N Via Ventosa Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$8,375,000

5 Beds

7 Baths

6,800 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6681467

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

CP Drewett of Drewett Works Architecture inside Canyon Heights. North Scottsdale's most prestigious gated, hillside, view community; sides to Silverleaf without Silverleaf architectural guidelines and density. This is the last available hillside lot within the enclave. With nearly 10 acres of panoramic sunset and city light views, this elevated lot offers a rare opportunity to build your dream home. The entrance to the parcel is flat, providing acreage for endless options. A gradual slope ensues, rendering incredible Westward facing views. Sweeping views of Lost Canyon to the South. An elevated view lot of this caliber is a rare find and deserves a first in class Builder behind it; we welcome you to set up a walkthrough with Jeff at True North Builders or CP at Drewett Works.

View Property

29211 N 53rd Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$8,250,000

6 Beds

5 Baths

8,700 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6609693

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

INCOME PRODUCING PROPERTY! Equestrian Estate has 25+ acres, city water, paved roads, & one of the most desirable locations for horse Training, Boarding or Breeding Facility in the Valley. This Equestrian Estate offers three well-appointed homes, perfect for multi-generational living or rental income potential. The main home, a luxurious retreat, features a sparkling pool, outdoor living space, creating an oasis of relaxation & entertainment. The property also boasts 4 spacious barns, mare motel, 2 covered arenas, outdoor arena & bridle path. Additional equestrian amenities include a round pen, multiple turnouts, hay barn, tractor storage, mister system, multiple tack rooms, ensuring top-notch facilities for your horses. There are 2 manufactured homes, the possibilities are endless.

View Property

20908 W Durango Street Buckeye, AZ 85326

$8,000,000

8 Beds

8 Baths

5,512 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6688287

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

One of a kind commercial vet clinic/breeding facility including two residential homes and 30 acres of prime land in one of the fastest growing cities in the country. The subject property presents an exceptional opportunity for multiple uses. Its location creates an optimal environment for multi family, commercial and many other uses just minutes from ''The Landing'' near I-10 and Verrado Way. This area is primed to be the West Valley's newest entertainment, employment and residential hub of Buckeye. Don't miss this golden opportunity to become one of Buckeye's prime destination spots. Two beautiful 4 bedroom 3 bath slump block identical homes, huge barn with apartment, detached garage, multiple pastures, flood irrigation and 60 covered stalls with turnouts. Opportunity of a life time!!!

View Property

33094 N Northstar Circle Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$8,000,000

5 Beds

6.5 Baths

7,460 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773912

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Presenting a stunning new build in Whisper Rock Estates with approved plans , this high-quality contemporary residence boasts 7,460 sqft of luxurious single-story living. A thoughtfully designed floor plan includes 4 bedrooms, a dedicated exercise room, & a versatile flex room, centered around an expansive kitchen & great room. The attached casita adds an extra layer of comfort & privacy. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking views of the resort-style backyard, complete with a pool, spa, & water features. The surrounding natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert, Winfield Mountain, & distant Chiricahua Mountain vistas create a serene backdrop. Perfect for entertaining, the home features a wet bar with retractable glass walls, a spacious covered patio with a fireplace, & an outdoor more kitchen with a built-in BBQ, blending indoor and outdoor living effortlessly.The primary suite is a private retreat, featuring a tranquil, spa-like bathroom with custom Copenhagen cabinetry, limestone countertops, a marble shower, dual water closets, and a freestanding soaking tub. Guests can enjoy their own 903 sq ft 1-bedroom guest house, complete with a kitchen and living room, offering ultimate privacy and comfort. Premium finishes are showcased throughout, including a Wolf and SubZero appliance package. The 5-car garage and ample parking provide the perfect space for a luxury car collection. This home exemplifies contemporary elegance, surrounded by the beauty of the desert landscape. This property is ready to break ground with builder.

View Property

7646 E Hidden Canyon Street Mesa, AZ 85207

$7,999,950

5 Beds

7 Baths

9,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760394

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Exceptional Modernterranean Estate at framing stage by Micela Builders. Like no other, the pad offers unparalleled privacy within the exclusive gated community of Hidden Canyon at Las Sendas. Backing onto the Tonto Forest, this single-level home features walls of glass for seamless indoor-outdoor living experience and boasts exquisite marble accents, a two-way fireplace, and en suite bedrooms. The resort-style backyard offers a negative-edge pool, spa, and rooftop deck with stunning mountain views. Its 1,600 sf air-conditioned garage accommodates 6-8 car parking. The home embodies meticulous craftsmanship and architectural brilliance.

View Property

6619 E Stallion Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$7,995,000

4 Beds

8.5 Baths

8,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6656548

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing luxury estate blended in at the base of Mummy Mountain and a rare find in the heart of Paradise Valley. Imported materials include reclaimed cobblestone from Rome, Italian marble, handcrafted furniture style cabinetry and masterful craftsmanship throughout home. Expansive covered patio, barbecue kitchen area, synthetic grass, pool, spa and fireplace. Mature landscaping accents the Santa Barbara-Tuscan Architecture. Split floor plan with 4 en-suites, office including a fireplace. Master suite has separate water closets; one with a bidet. A soaking/jetted tub in the center of the bathroom and large pass-through shower with dual rainforest shower heads. Stunning home is a must see.Bring us an offer. Thank you.

View Property

4743 N 54th Street Phoenix, AZ 85018

$7,995,000

5 Beds

6 Baths

7,828 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762489

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover your own paradise on the south side of Camelback Mountain. This Spanish-style gem boasts captivating design, cityscape vistas, and architectural elegance. Be enchanted by the warmth and spaciousness of this home. High ceilings and abundant natural light welcome you into an open layout. With its gourmet kitchen, wine cellar, and wet bar, this home is a perfect setting for entertainers. Each bedroom provides an en-suite bathroom. The owner's suite, a wing of its own, features a spacious closet, a marble-filled bathroom, a private office, and a balcony with stunning views. Step outside to your private oasis, complete with a pristine pool, an outdoor kitchen, and ample relaxation space. A guest house accommodates visitors or extended family.

View Property