Buying raw land is refreshingly simple compared to buying a house, but a few things separate a great parcel from a headache. Walk through this checklist on any lot before you commit.
1. Access
You need two kinds of access: legal and physical. Legal access means the parcel actually touches a road or has a recorded easement to reach it. Physical access means you can really drive there. Plenty of desert lots are reached by graded dirt roads, which is normal, just make sure a road exists.
2. Water
Water is the single biggest question on desert land. Some parcels have a paid water meter at the street, some can dig a well, and some rely on hauling water to a tank. None of these are dealbreakers, but they change how you use the land and what it costs. Our guide on water and power on high desert land covers the options.
3. Power
Check how close the nearest power pole is. If the grid is in the area, a connection is usually straightforward. If it is far, many owners go solar and live comfortably off-grid. Either way, find out before you buy so there are no surprises.
4. Zoning and allowed use
Zoning decides what you can legally do: a home, a manufactured home, a ranch, a short-term rental, or a business. Most of our parcels are residential or rural, and a few are commercial. Confirm the zoning fits your plan with the county before you close.
5. Flood and wash risk
The desert is dry until it is not. A seasonal wash running through a lot can limit where you build. It is easy to check the parcel against county flood maps, and we are happy to point you to the right one.
6. Boundaries and the APN
Every parcel has an Assessor's Parcel Number, or APN, that pins down exactly which piece of dirt you are buying. Learn how to use it in what is an APN. Knowing the corners keeps you from building on the neighbor's land.
7. Clean title and current taxes
Finally, make sure the title is clear of liens and the property taxes are current. With owner financing from a seller who has owned the land for years, this is usually clean, but it is always worth confirming.
Still have questions?
We would rather you ask ten questions than regret one purchase. Call or message John about any specific parcel, or browse what is available now.