how to buy land from the county

3 min read 07-02-2025

Meta Description: Learn how to buy county-owned land! This comprehensive guide covers finding available properties, navigating the bidding process, understanding land use regulations, and more. Secure your dream plot today! (158 characters)

Buying land directly from a county government can be a fantastic way to acquire property, often at competitive prices. However, the process differs significantly from buying from a private seller. This guide outlines the steps involved in buying county-owned land.

Finding Available County Land

The first step is identifying available parcels. County governments typically list properties for sale on their official websites.

County Websites & Public Records

Check the County Website: Most counties maintain a dedicated land sales or surplus property section. Look for keywords like "land auction," "property for sale," or "tax-delinquent properties."
Public Records: Access public records offices or websites to search for county-owned land. These records often detail property characteristics, including size, zoning, and any encumbrances.
County Tax Assessor's Office: The tax assessor’s office can provide information on tax-delinquent properties that might be up for sale.

Other Resources

County Newsletters & Publications: Subscribe to county newsletters or publications for announcements regarding land sales.
Local Real Estate Agents: While not always involved in county land sales directly, some agents specialize in this niche and can provide valuable insights.

Understanding the Sales Process

County land sales follow established procedures, which can vary by location.

Auctions vs. Direct Sales

Auctions: Many counties sell land through public auctions. These often involve competitive bidding and require attending the auction in person or participating online. Check the auction details carefully for registration and bidding procedures.
Direct Sales: Some counties may offer land for direct sale at a set price. This is generally a simpler process than an auction but still requires completing necessary paperwork and meeting deadlines.

Bidding & Offer Submission

Registration: For auctions, you'll need to register in advance. For direct sales, you might need to submit a formal offer.
Due Diligence: Before bidding or submitting an offer, conduct thorough due diligence, including title searches and land surveys.
Payment & Closing: Be prepared for a prompt payment after winning a bid or having your offer accepted. The closing process will involve transferring ownership legally and recording it with the county.

Important Considerations

Before purchasing county land, carefully consider the following:

Zoning & Land Use Regulations

Zoning: Check the land's zoning designation. This determines what you can build on the property, including permitted uses and restrictions.
Building Codes: Familiarize yourself with any building codes or permits required for any development or construction plans.
Environmental Regulations: Research environmental regulations and potential concerns, including wetlands, endangered species habitats, or soil contamination.

Access & Utilities

Access: Ensure you have legal access to the property via public roads or easements.
Utilities: Determine the availability of utilities such as electricity, water, and sewer. The cost of extending utilities can be substantial.
Surveys: Obtaining a professional land survey is highly recommended to define property boundaries accurately.

Taxes & Fees

Property Taxes: Understand the property tax implications of owning the land. Tax rates can vary based on location and assessed valuation.
Closing Costs: Factor in closing costs, which can include title insurance, recording fees, and other expenses.

How to Find County Contact Information

Finding the relevant department within your county government is crucial. You can usually find contact information through:

County Website: The county's official website will have a directory of departments, including the assessor's office, planning department, and potentially a land sales division.
Online Search Engines: Search "[County Name] land sales" or "[County Name] surplus property" to find relevant contact details.
Phone Directory: Check the local phone directory for county government listings.

Buying county-owned land can be a rewarding experience, offering access to potentially affordable properties. By following these steps and conducting thorough research, you can increase your chances of a successful purchase. Remember to consult with legal and financial professionals as needed throughout the process.