1. Zoning (What’s Generally Allowed)
Definition: Zoning regulations dictate how the land can be used, such as for residential, commercial, agricultural, or industrial purposes.
Importance: Understanding zoning helps ensure that your intended use of the land is permissible and avoids potential legal issues or the need for rezoning applications. There can be exceptions, like Conditional Use Permits, but it’s best to own land that’s already zoned with your intended use of the land.
2. Property Access – Understanding the Difference Between Physical Roads and Legal Access
Definition: Physical access refers to the actual pathways or roads leading to the property, while legal access involves the rights to use those pathways or roads.
Importance: Knowing both types of access is crucial to avoid surprises about who can use parts of your land and to understand any restrictions that might affect your plans. Ensuring proper legal or physical access impacts the convenience and cost of developing the property.
3. It’s Normal for Vacant Land to NOT to have an Address Yet
Definition: Vacant land often doesn’t have an assigned address until development there’s a physical dwelling to assign an address to.
Importance: Being aware of this helps manage expectations and understand the process required to get an official address, which is necessary for utilities and other services.
4. Google Maps is Your Friend!
Definition: Google Maps can provide a detailed view of the land and surrounding area, helping you assess location, access, and nearby amenities.
Importance: Using Google Maps allows you to get a visual understanding of the property, check for nearby infrastructure, and identify potential issues or benefits related to the location.
5. Utilities – DIY or Public
Definition: Utilities include services like water, electricity, gas, sewage/septic systems, internet, and trash removal. These utilities can be done on your own OR through a utility company provider.
Importance: Are you a Do-It-Yourself person? Think about what you want long-term and if you’re OK being your own utility provider, like solar panels. Or would you rather pay a utility company? Public utilities can cost money to install but offer extra convenience. The choice is yours but be informed.