Experience buying land?

[Gregory Cudzilo]

My significant other and I live in Northern Virginia, but we plan to buy land (15-20 ish acres) in eastern WV. We plan to build a cabin and use the property for a weekend/outdoor getaway (hiking, climbing, shooting, kayaking, ect)

I've never bought just land before, and have only bought one house thus far. Are there any key things I need to know or should look out for when buying land? Anything different or key questions to ask during the process? Thanks!

[Eric Teran]

@Gregory Cudzilo that sounds like a great plan. I’ve bought land twice and designed a house for a client who owned land in WV near a mountain resort. If you are looking to buy 15-20 acres you probably is not have a lot to worry about in terms of setbacks, lot area, and so on that a typical lot would have in the suburbs or city.

The biggest item is if there are any easements. There can even be an easement for a bird corridor. There may also be certain areas that may be protected for the wildlife, aquifer, protected fauna and so on. Think nature and what might be protected. Verify if the piece of land is still useable if any of these items are relevant.

Lastly, where on those acres is the house going to be situated. The farther you go from the main road the more expensive it will cost to build and maintain access to it. How about utilities? I assume septic, maybe solar power or generator, well water? If not how do they get to the house? That can kill a budget. Good Luck.