Rookie RE investor in FL interested in raw land...

[Daniel Chang]

Hi BP forum, I am looking for a few acres to build a modest sized cabin to get away from South Miami a few times a month. My family runs a small construction business and we moved from NY 8 years ago and have been doing business in downtown Miami almost exclusively with condo renovations with some home renovations mixed in. Recently I've been looking for some land to have a place we can relax on and get away from the city a few times a month for fishing, hunting and just being in a peaceful environment. I have been scouring Craigslist, websites from land sellers and EBay for properties that would be ideal. My ideal location would be a wooded area, close to a body of water for fishing that also had a variety of game for hunting and not farther north than the Orlando area. I'd like for it to be 3 hours away max from our home in Homestead which is pretty much Miami and for it to be somewhat secluded. Being in a quiet setting is very important. I don't need 20 acres but would like a few acres to roam on.

I'd like to know what part of Florida would be an ideal location to start looking in and also any tips you have for someone new to purchasing land. I have seen some 100% financing by seller with no penalties for paying off early. Also, any tips on where to look for such land and any suggested methods of doing it such as with pre-for closures or tax lien auctions on eBay, etc. would be greatly appreciated. As of now, the only things I know I should do before buying is to:

1. Check county records for zoning laws and for back taxes, liens, what utilities are available and when it was listed and for how long.

2. Go on the property and see it first hand to see if the land is suitable for my needs.

3. Talk to surrounding neighbors and explore the neighborhoods for types of houses nearby, nearby stores, gas stations, etc.

Really, any general tips websites for resources and thoughts on any of these topics would be a great deal of help as I am currently feeling overwhelmed. Not looking to spend too much on the property as It will be a recreational property and not a residing property. I'm not able to put down a lot for a down payment currently but can manage a few hundred a month for some sort of financing with plans to paying off early. Recently had a few clients that I had to take legal action against due to non-payment and both have been ruled in my favor so things will get better. It has been a struggle the last few months but things should get significantly better for the remainder of the year. We could really use a getaway property to relax on. Thanks in advance.

-Daniel