The Reality of Searching for Land
Finding the right parcel involves more than identifying available acreage. Several factors can significantly affect what you can actually do with a property.
Finding the right parcel involves more than identifying available acreage. Several factors can significantly affect what you can actually do with a property.
Legal Access
Not all parcels have recorded road access. Some properties rely on easements across neighboring land, and in certain cases access may need to be clarified or established during escrow.
Lot Legality
A parcel must be recognized as a legal lot by the county before certain uses, financing, or building permits are possible.
Zoning and Property Restrictions
Zoning determines the primary permitted uses of a property, but some parcels are also subject to additional restrictions such as subdivision covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs). These rules can limit building locations, land use, or agricultural activities beyond what zoning alone allows.
Water and Septic Feasibility
In rural areas, municipal water and sewer connections are uncommon. Many properties rely on private wells and septic systems. Evaluating whether a well can be drilled and conducting a percolation (“perc”) test to confirm septic suitability are often early steps in assessing development potential.
Utilities and Infrastructure
Land can range from completely unimproved to partially developed parcels with graded pads, wells, or nearby utility connections. Understanding what infrastructure already exists—and what must be installed—is a critical part of evaluating a property.
Property Boundaries
Occasionally, surveys reveal discrepancies between recorded boundaries and physical features on the land. In rare situations, boundary adjustments with neighboring parcels may be needed to resolve issues.
Because land purchases involve many variables, careful due diligence helps ensure the property supports your intended plans.