What should I look for when buying land?

**Yoga Dave** · 01-22-2009, 05:37 PM

I am currently in the market to buy some land in either Oregon or Washington. Most listings have fine print with do your diligence type statements. The thing is, I'm not really sure what to look for. What pitfalls should I look for when buying land in Oregon or Washington?

Thank you for your help!

**Chief Tutor** · 01-22-2009, 06:22 PM

If you are looking for land in north east oregon, you might want to contact my client John J Howard. They don't come more honest and knowledgeable as John. He can either help you or point you in the right direction. You can visit his website here: La Grande Real Estate

**donrock** · 01-22-2009, 10:14 PM

A lot will depend on what you plan to do with the land. Some of the things to be aware of without knowing the answer to the question is:
What kind of restrictions are on it?
Will you be able to put a septic system in if you're going to build.
How far is electricity?
How deep is water or is there water available?
What kind of roads service it?
There are dozens more but these will help you think of more.
Good luck,
donrock

**thomas12** · 01-23-2009, 01:07 AM

I think we must refer books written by real estate experts as far as land issue is concerned. Its a pretty vital decision which requires beforehand research.

**Greg** · 01-23-2009, 06:24 AM

Do what the chief says and get a good buyers agent familiar with the pitfalls associated with buying raw land in that area. Everywhere is different.

**Commercial Agent** · 01-23-2009, 08:17 PM

Be sure the land is high and dry and not subject to flooding.

Meet as many neighbors as you can and get their opinion.

Ask a contractor who might do the building for you what he thinks of the site.

Try to stick with county maintained paved roads and driveways that are not steep.

**Jenie0109** · 01-26-2009, 11:18 PM

Utilities Water is important. Not all water is potable. Sometimes water rights don't "run with the land," which would mean you could not dig a well. Find out the depth of your water table and determine the difficulty of digging. Is the ground mostly rock? It can be costly to bring electricity, telephone or cable services to the property if they are not already established nearby. Will you need to install a propane tank? Consider a generator for back-up during power outages. If you cannot hook up to a sewer, what will it cost to install a septic system?

Natural Hazards
Obtain a natural hazard disclosure and look for soil problems. Some parts of El Dorado County near the Sierra, for example, have naturally occurring asbestos in the rocks and soil. A disclosure will tell you if the land is a protected habitat, which would prohibit building. Is the area a known fire hazard? Is the fire department supported solely by volunteers? Many owners in the country maintain private ponds for fire emergencies.