Trends in real estate markets can vary across the country, but even so these tips can help you no matter where you decide to set your roots!

1. Pick a number..but not any number! Everyone seems to have a magic number in thier heads in terms of their budget and what they are comfortable with laying out for their dream property. Talk with a lender first and find out what you qualify for, or make sure you really can tap into that IRA account without paying heavy penalties attached to early withdrawals. Keep in mind the volatility of the stock market too if you are planning on pulling out cash for a purchase.

2. Take that “magic” number and stick to it..but…be realistic. Unless your pockets drag on the ground, you will likely find you have to make a compromise. Perhaps location, or amentites, or features you thought you could not live without, (like live water!) and prioritize your top three criteria and let the rest fall where your finances allow. After all, who wouldn’t rather be in a “cadillac’, when really a “camry” works just as well.

3. Spend some time in preparation of viewing property by letting your fingers do the walking..on the keyboard that is!  Just don’t get stuck in the Analysis Paralysis mode! Get some facts on the properties such as average sales prices in the past, what town is it near-so you can research the area, how does the terrain layout on the land-so you can do what you want to, how is the access to the land, the utilities, etc. This way some process of elimination can be done online and you will find that even though there seems to be an endless inventory of properties out there, there really is only a handful that will work for YOU.  If you want to make a career out of “looking for land” than Hey, it’s your time and you can use it how you seem fit!  Just be open with those professionals you may be in contact with :) 

4. Contact Real Estate Brokers based in your targeted communities. Since there are no set requirements in order to label oneself as a “Specialist”, find out how often they handle the type of property you are seeking..that is a great way to ensure a smooth transaction! Being a member of the National Association of Realtors means the Broker has pledged to follow a Code of Ethics that is above and beyond licensing law. But even the REALTOR who specializes in vacant land in such and such a county does not amount to a hill of beans….if you just don’t connect with thier style. So, choose wisely as this is likely going to be a long term relationship.

5. Important as well… even in a Buyer driven market don’t shop outside your comfort zone in terms of price. If you think you are going to low ball the owner, well then you risk a flat refusal rather than a counter to your offer. Do your homework and stay in your budget to avoid dissappointment and likely wasting your time as well as everyone else that is invloved in the process. Better to follow tips 1, 2, 3 and 4 prior to shopping and then when you find your AHA property you can get the deal you deserve!

Happy Trails~