Pay Attention to How a Plot Is Zoned

A common mistake that many new real estate purchasers make is not paying attention to how a particular plot of land is zoned compared to what they want to use the land for. For example, unless a plot of land is zoned for commercial use, you will not be able to operate a business on the property. If the property is zoned for a single-family home, you will not be able to build a duplex or apartment complex on the land.

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Make sure you are purchasing a plot of land that is zoned appropriately for what you want to do with the land. Or, look at what it will take to have the property zoned or re-zoned and decide if that's feasible and worth the additional investment.

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Mitigate Any Natural Hazards

Evaluate the land for any natural hazards and determine what can and cannot be mitigated. You may need to clear away trees or fill holes or depressions in the ground to make the property safe for living or working. If drainage is poor, rainwater may pool outside your home or business and pose a drowning risk for children. These issues should be fixed prior to building and if they cannot be remediated, you may want to reconsider purchasing that specific plot of land.

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Choose the Right Location for the Property's Purpose

Make sure the property is located in a good area for its use. For example, if you are opening a retail clothing store, somewhere relatively public that has a lot of foot traffic would be ideal. If you plan to build your dream home, you may want a land that is further away from the city and much more secluded.

Find Out What Utility Services the Land Already Has (and What You'll Have to Build)

Before you sign on the dotted line, you should have a clear understanding of what utility services are already established on the land you plan to purchase and what you'll have to build or install. Knowing ahead of time that you will need to have piping for water, for example, helps you keep your project on budget later on during the building process.

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Depending on what you plan to use the land for, you may need some or all of the following services:

• Internet

• Telephone and cell phone service

• Electric

• Water

• Sewer

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How a South Carolina Real Estate Attorney Can Assist You

Experienced real estate lawyer Susan Shipman Miranda, Attorney at Law can help you identify and purchase properly zoned real estate properties that meet your unique needs. Call today for more information or to book a consultation to review your options.

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