What to Look For When Buying Land: Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Plot

Are you considering buying land for the first time? Owning land is not only an excellent investment but also opens the door for you to create a home tailored to your lifestyle. When we talk about lifestyle, we are not just talking about what you can see out of your window, but also about accessibility to amenities, being part of a community, and the peacefulness of rural living.

Buying a plot of land, particularly in a rural area like Nebraska, is a big decision that can offer many benefits. It provides an avenue to experience a lifestyle many people can only dream of, filled with the beauty of the outdoors and a serene atmosphere. 

However, navigating the land purchase process can feel complex and daunting for potential buyers. There are many factors that you need to carefully consider, such as zoning regulations, flood zones, property taxes, and more. 

In this blog post, we aim to equip you with all the knowledge you need to make an informed decision when buying land. With the right guidance and information, you’ll be ready to own your piece of Nebraska land. Read on as we highlight what you need to know before buying the plot of land you have been dreaming about. 

Detailed Assessment and Due Diligence

Due Diligence

The process of buying land often requires more due diligence compared to buying a pre-built residential property. But what does due diligence mean in the context of buying vacant land? Essentially, it is the careful assessment of various aspects of the land before finalizing the purchase. This important step helps in identifying potential issues that might affect your intended land use, ensuring that your land purchase is the right decision. 

Many potential buyers find it helpful to work with real estate agents who specialize in land transactions. Real estate agents have the expertise to navigate through various stipulations and legalities that are unique to land purchases. They play a crucial role in guiding buyers on aspects such as researching the previous owner, understanding deed restrictions, and ensuring a thorough title search. 

What To Research

Title Search

A title search can help identify any potential legal issues with the property’s title and reveal if the seller has the legal authority to sell the land. This could save you from disputes in the future. 

Deed Restrictions 

As part of your due diligence, it is also necessary to look into any deed restrictions that might be tied to the land. These are rules that dictate what can and cannot be done on the plot of land. For example, some land may be restricted from certain types of construction due to environmental concerns or might have limitations on how many structures are allowed on the property.

Zoning Regulations

Understanding the local zoning department regulations is another critical factor. The zoning ordinances determine what the land can or cannot be used for. It is important to ensure that these regulations align with your intended use of the land, be it for residential, commercial, agricultural, or other purposes. 

Homeowners Association

If you’re planning to build a home there, also make sure to check with the homeowners association rules if there’s one overseeing the community and the potential implications of not having a building permit.

Location Analysis

It is often said in the real estate realm, “Location, location, location,” and purchasing vacant land is no exception to this principle. When buying land, the location plays an important role on two fronts – your lifestyle and your wallet!

Choosing Your Lifestyle

Starting with lifestyle – the location of a plot of land impacts your daily life. How far is it from urban areas or amenities like grocery stores, schools, and medical facilities? It is essential to consider if there is easy access to these necessities, especially in rural areas.

Picking Your Price

On the economic front, location plays a crucial role in determining property taxes and future property prices. While rural areas in Nebraska are often thought to have lower property taxes, this is not always the case. Rural Nebraskans can sometimes pay higher property and income taxes than their urban counterparts. However, land within city limits or near future development projects, like new schools or hospitals, may offer potential appreciation in value over time, appealing to those looking for a long-term investment.

Land Characteristics

Flood Zones

Before finalizing your purchase, it is wise to consider the land’s position relative to flood zones. Evaluate the land and the implications of the flood zone designation, which could affect your insurance costs and eligibility for certain types of construction loans. 

Access

Another consideration that is vital when buying a rural property is checking legal access and road access. Does the land have direct access to public roads, or do you have to cross someone else’s property to reach it? If the latter, you must ensure you have a legal right of way. 

Understanding the considerations of a land’s location is an important step for buyers. Whether you see yourself as a resident of a rural haven or closer to the hustle and bustle of city life, understanding the location’s details will enable you to make an informed land purchase decision.

Considerations Before Building Your Home: Land Preparation

Once you decide on your land’s location, you may be excited to start designing and planning your dream home. However, it is essential to consider the potential additional costs and steps that need to be taken to prepare the land for construction. 

Land Considerations

Soil Type

Examining the land’s characteristics should be the first step. This includes understanding the soil type, which can significantly affect your ability to build your home and may impact your landscaping plans. Nebraska, for instance, has a diverse range of soil types across different regions. Soil testing, including a percolation test (or perc test), is necessary to ensure suitability for a septic system. The perc test results will help determine if the soil can adequately support a septic system, a crucial aspect of developing a residential property in rural areas. 

Water Access

Adequate access to water is another important consideration when preparing the land for building. It is crucial to understand water rights when considering land in rural areas. Especially for families who envision orchards, gardens, or agricultural fields, understanding this is important.

Sewage

Are you planning to install a sewer system or will you rely on a septic tank? These decisions can have a significant influence on the prepared budget. Remember that installing a septic system and constructing a septic tank can incur additional costs and considerations. 

Sustainability

Beyond the land’s characteristics and preparation, look towards sustainable energy sources. Are there opportunities to harness solar power that can be both cost-effective and environmentally friendly? Considering the direction of your home can make a considerable difference to the potential energy you can harness with solar panels.

Development

Lastly, the purchase cost of undeveloped land is typically lower compared to developed land. However, bear in mind that the cost of additional preparation before construction starts can sometimes add up, subtly hidden in the forms of grading, clearing, and excavating the raw land into a construction-ready site. 

Envisioning your dream house on vacant land can be exciting, but a thorough understanding of land preparation and the potential additional costs involved helps ensure a smooth process after the land purchase. When you are informed and prepared, envisioning gardens, fruit trees, or a small ranch on your land will not just be a dream but become a reality.

Why Turn to Lashley Land for Your Land Purchase? 

Investing in land is a major step, particularly in the beautiful rural areas of Nebraska. Given the complexities of land buying—from due diligence to location analysis—having the right real estate guidance is crucial. An experienced agent can simplify this process, helping you navigate each step with confidence and ensuring you find the perfect property. At Lashley Land, we specialize in connecting you with the perfect piece of Nebraska real estate, offering expert advice and support throughout the process. Ready to start your journey to owning a dream property? Contact Lashley Land today, and let us help you make your dream of rural living a reality!

Discover the Heartland: Why Nebraska Might Be Your Next Home

From the plains stretching to the horizon to the warm embrace of small-town communities, Nebraska is a hidden gem in the heart of America. Known as the Cornhusker State, Nebraska offers a balanced mix of rural charm and urban vitality. It provides a lifestyle that combines tranquility with opportunities.

With a diverse landscape and strong community ties, this midwestern state suits those seeking seclusion or friendly communities. Its natural beauty, affordable living, and outdoor activities are what give its appeal. Wondering if Nebraska is a good place to live? Let’s explore why this state might be your next perfect destination.

Nebraska: Discovering its Unique Appeal

The Beauty of Nebraska Landscape

Nebraska’s diverse landscape ranges from seemingly endless sand hills in the northwest to the verdant prairies in the east, embraced by two significant waterways: the Missouri River to the east and the Platte River through the heart of the state. With grand landscapes such as Chimney Rock and the towering sand cliffs on the banks of the Niobrara River, Nebraska is not lacking in natural wonders.

For every season of the year, Nebraska showcases a different aspect of its beauty. 

• In winter, locals enjoy hunting big game and waterfowl and hiking trails near the Platte River.
• In spring, as flowers start to bloom, the annual sandhill crane migration to the Platte River Valley is a must-see. 
• Summer invites sailing and other water activities on Lake McConaughy, Nebraska’s largest lake. 
• In the fall, the state’s grasslands become a favorite spot for game-hunting enthusiasts. 

Nebraska’s wide-open spaces not only provide scenic views but also provide access to outdoor activities for residents and visitors. Whether it’s hiking across the Sandhills, camping in one of the many state parks, or wildlife spotting in the Scotts Bluff National Monument, Nebraska offers plenty of opportunities to be at one with nature. This level of immersion in the great outdoors provides a unique way of life in Nebraska that offers peace, tranquility, and adventure in equal measure. 

Ultimately, the natural beauty of Nebraska’s landscape offers an amazing place for anyone seeking an active outdoor lifestyle or wanting to live amidst beautiful scenery. It’s no wonder that more and more people are calling the Cornhusker State home.

Quality of Life

Strong Sense of Community

Nebraskans look out for each other. Our communities are known for their cooperative spirit, neighborly kindness, and family values, contributing to the state’s low crime rates and a strong sense of safety. Whether you’re in a smaller town like Kearney or a large city like downtown Omaha, the sense of community is seen throughout the state. 

Healthy Environment

The state is also committed to maintaining a healthy environment for its citizens. Nebraska consistently ranks high in air and water quality surveys, sitting in the eighth spot nationwide for environmental quality. Intensive conservation efforts are underway in Nebraska to maintain and improve these metrics, ensuring the state’s future generations enjoy its natural beauty in a clean, protected environment. 

Nebraska is ranked as the third-best state in the nation for overall quality of life. With vibrant communities, and an exceptional environment, Nebraska proves itself a promising place to live, offering a high standard of living while retaining its welcoming, friendly atmosphere. 

Education and Healthcare

Education is a cornerstone of life in Nebraska. The state is home to a variety of quality public schools and an extensive selection of colleges and universities. The high school graduation rate stands at 87.1%, ranking above the national average. Nebraska’s commitment to education is further reflected in its NAEP math scores, which are notably higher than the national average as well.

Higher education flourishes in Nebraska with the esteemed University of Nebraska. Offering a range of specialized programs, the university attracts students from around the world, all ready to cheer on the Cornhuskers! Other notable institutions include Creighton University, known for its excellent medical school, and Nebraska Wesleyan University renowned for its liberal arts programs.

Stellar healthcare complements Nebraska’s robust education system. The state houses several world-class healthcare facilities, ensuring quality services for its residents. The Nebraska Medical Center is recognized for its cancer and cardiology care, while the Children’s Hospital and Medical Center of Omaha is one of the top-rated pediatric hospitals in the country. The strong healthcare infrastructure coupled with Nebraska’s commitment to public health initiatives ensures a healthy living environment for its residents.

Whether you’re a young professional seeking a degree, a parent prioritizing a good school district, or a retiree needing access to top-notch healthcare services, Nebraska’s focus on education and healthcare makes it a perfect destination for all stages of life. 

Economic Opportunities

Traditionally an agricultural state, Nebraska’s economy has evolved over the years, developing sectors in technology, financial services, and healthcare. This evolution has played a significant role in the state’s economic stability, creating a resilient job market with a range of job opportunities for different skill sets.

Industries experiencing significant growth include biosciences, manufacturing, information technology, and renewable energy. Notably, Omaha is home to five Fortune 500 companies, including Berkshire Hathaway, Union Pacific, and Mutual of Omaha, highlighting the city’s status as a thriving economic hub.

Furthermore, the Cornhusker State stands out for its affordability and economic stability, with an unemployment rate lower than the national average, ranking fourth lowest in the United States. The income levels in Nebraska are also impressive, with the median household income standing above the national average. With economic growth rates in Nebraska that consistently outpace the national average, the state offers its residents a solid economic foundation offering stability and prosperity.

Nebraska provides a thriving landscape for job seekers, business owners, and investors. It’s a state where a strong work ethic, innovation, and entrepreneurship are encouraged and rewarded. Working or starting a business in Nebraska offers a perfect combination of strong economic prospects and a high quality of life.

Nebraska: Discovering its Unique Appeal

From outdoor ventures to cultural experiences, recreational opportunities in Nebraska are abundant. The Great Plains provides a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities including boating, fishing, hunting, golfing, and hiking. 

Sport-fishing in the Missouri River, hiking up the Wildcat Hills, golfing in the Sandhills, or hunting for game in one of the many grasslands, the possibilities to engage with Nebraska’s natural beauty are endless. Parks and reserves like Indian Cave State Park and Niobrara National Scenic River offer scenic trails for hikers and bikers.

Nebraska is also rich in cultural and community events. Throughout the year, residents and visitors can engage in various festivals like the Nebraska State Fair in Grand Island, the AppleJack Festival in Nebraska City, and the popular Omaha Summer Arts Festival. Art enthusiasts can explore numerous art galleries and performing arts venues, such as the Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha and the Sheldon Museum of Art in Lincoln. 

Among the most famous tourist attractions are the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, known for its leading animal conservation efforts and its indoor desert and rainforest habitats. The Durham Museum, also in Omaha, offers a glimpse into the region’s history, while the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge provides a unique experience of standing in two states at once.

No matter your interests, Nebraska offers several activities for residents to enjoy year-round, contributing to the state’s vibrant and enriched lifestyle.

Living and Housing in Nebraska

Nebraska’s living and housing are characterized by a blend of affordability and quality. Nebraska’s home prices and cost of living are well below the national average, assuring affordable living to its residents. Whether you prefer the hustle of cities like Omaha and Lincoln or more tranquil rural areas in the state’s heartland, Nebraska offers a variety of housing options for your lifestyle.

Omaha, the largest city, boasts a vibrant downtown filled with lofts, condos, and apartments. This large city offers an expansive array of single-family homes in safe and family-friendly neighborhoods. The metropolitan area offers easy access to a wealth of amenities including coffee shops, restaurants, shopping centers, and professional sports teams.

Smaller cities like Kearney, Grand Island, or towns in Sarpy County offer a mix of small-town charm and modern comforts. These areas provide appealing options for families, with affordable housing, strong school districts, and lower crime rates. 

For those seeking a retreat or a closer connection to nature, rural areas of Nebraska offer plenty of scope for wide-open living. These areas offer an array of homes, including farmhouses, ranches and independently standing single-family homes. 

Given the state’s diverse range of locales, finding your perfect place in Nebraska is an easy task. Whether looking for the convenience of a bigger city, the charm of a small town, or the tranquility of the country, Nebraska real estate offers options to suit every lifestyle and budget.

Find Your Perfect Place in Nebraska

If you are looking for a state that balances natural beauty with industrious cities, wide-open spaces with a sense of community, and tradition with innovation, Nebraska might be for you. With its solid economic performance, low cost of living, and warm, welcoming communities, it’s clear that Nebraska is the best place to live for many.

If Nebraska’s qualities have sparked your interest in making it your home, or you’re curious about real estate opportunities in the Cornhusker state, Lashley Land is here to help. With a deep understanding of Nebraska’s land and property market, Lashley Land has been fostering successful transitions into this vibrant lifestyle for decades. Call Lashley Land today to make your Nebraska dream a reality.