Top tips when finding land to buy in Florida
Once the decision has been made to look for land to buy in Florida, there are a number of important tips that a prospective buyer should follow in order to ensure that the best lot is bought for the best price.
Location, location, location
First of all the location is very important. A buyer should always make sure that the land they intend to purchase is in a good location for them. For example, is it close to a shopping high street, the workplace or the beach? A buyer should consider what their priorities are and find the location accordingly.
Another concern, in terms of location, is how busy the street is if there are any close by. Street noise is something that not everyone can deal with. It is possible to find land located on cul-de-sacs, for instance. However, quieter neighbourhoods tend to be based in deed-restricted communities. A buyer should decide beforehand whether they want to live in a deed-restricted community or not. It is important that they find out what the restrictions are and whether they agree to the terms.
Utilities
Another question that should be asked is whether the land has utilities running into it or not. Electricity is particularly important, as it can be very costly to have poles installed. Water is also vital; digging wells can take time, but are not as expensive as poles. However, well water will probably require a filtration system for the whole property.
Protected species
A buyer should be aware of the land's habitats. Scrub Jay habitat, for example, should be avoided, as a great deal of paperwork is required and the process can be lengthy. Checks should also be made for Box Turtles. If there are any present then they will have to be relocated and this costs money.
Water issues
An important issue to consider is whether the area in which the cheap land for sale is located is in a flood zone. If so, the buyer is better off looking for a plot as high up as possible. If the lot is based on a canal then it is essential to find out if it is salt water or fresh water, how deep the canal is and if there are any bridges in the vicinity.
Size matters
It is also important for a prospective buyer to consider the size of the land, as not all of it can be built on. For example, in Charlotte County, it is possible to build on only 35 per cent of the land, while in Sarasota County it is less at 33 per cent. The average size of a lot tends to be 80 by 125 ft.
In addition, the shape of the land needs to be taken into account. For instance, a cul-de-sac lot tends to require a property of a particular design. The size and shape of the lot will depend, of course, on how the land is to be used, for example, as a property investment, such as a holiday home.
