Selling vacant land can be daunting. To appeal to prospective buyers, you have to show the potential of the space. Will it be the site of a beautiful home, modern office, bustling factory, or the go-to B & B in the area? There's a lot to think about but with insight, patience, creative thinking, and a bit of luck, you can make a sale. Cobus Coetzee, Agent at Century 21 Hartbeespoort, shares his expert tips to make a successful sale.
Tip 1: Get a sense of your vacant land
Is this a new piece of land? Having information is key to making a sale. A land surveyor can illustrate the boundaries of the property, indicate easements, and uncover any utilities installed. Together with a property professional, you can uncover the true value of your vacant land, and price it appropriately for a sale.
Tip 2: Understand zoning laws and regulations
Take time to learn about the regulations and zoning laws that govern your vacant land. Regulations could play a role in how your land can be developed. Knowing what your land can be used for will play an important role in setting a price. These details will also help you market your property. If your property can be used for a commercial development, for example, this will help you pinpoint and appeal to business investors.
Tip 3: Stage your vacant land, up its appeal
Curb appeal doesn't just apply to homes. Your land should look its best as potential buyers will judge it on its appearance. Your changes don't have to be expensive or take a lot of work. Start by removing discarded junk or garbage. Next, clear away weeds and prune overgrown trees and bushes. You can take this a step further by planting new trees, flowers, and healthier grass to beautify the space. Adding a fence around the perimeter of the property will also make it more secure.
Remember, any time someone drives past is a sales opportunity for your vacant land. Ensure you keep it presentable and ready to impress anyone who views it.
Tip 4: Improve access to your vacant land
If your land is tough to enter, it can make selling it near impossible. Ensure your property has proper infrastructure in place. Asphalt or concrete driveways are best but you can also create a gravel driveway in a pinch. No buyer will pay a premium for a property they can't even enter properly so take the steps to make your property reachable.
Tip 5: Price your vacant land correctly
A good way to sell your vacant land fast is to price right from the start. Pricing too high can deter interested buyers and lengthen the sales period. Pricing too low could raise flags and prevent you from making a decent profit. An experienced property professional can do a valuation, comparing similar properties, assessing the market, uncovering your property's desirability, and evaluating the demand.
Tip 6: Market your vacant land like a pro
To get your vacant land off the market, you'll need to do more than place a "for sale" sign on the premises. A marketing strategy will serve you well and where a property professional truly shines. They will market your property through traditional mediums like flyers and brochures. Online, they'll list your property, spread the word on property portals, and expose it on social media and paid advertising. Property professionals can even tap into vast global networks to find a buyer from overseas. Marketing your vacant land also depends on the visuals so they'll also use professional photography and drone videos.
Tip 7: Be driven but patient
There's no harm in pulling all the stops to get your vacant land into the hands of an eager buyer. However, don't lose hope if you aren't successful immediately. All real estate takes time to sell and vacant land properties can be a challenge. However, it pays to be persistent and place your trust in an expert.
Partner with a vacant land specialist
Your vacant land is different from developed properties. You need a property professional who can provide tips to enhance its appeal, market its unique qualities, and tap into a market interested in what you have to offer. Trust Century 21's Northam property professionals to make the transaction as effortless as possible. With a portfolio of vacant land properties in the area, we have the proficiency you need. Contact us today.