A Beginners Short Guide to Beach Property Investment: Buying Land

By Jeremy Szechenyi

Purchasing land is simply buying undeveloped land near or on the beach. Finding beachfront land is a serious challenge and typically high priced. You can find land that isn't exactly beachfront, but is close to the beach, and holds some good value. Whether you decide to search for land on the beach or just back from the beachfront, the land needs to have potential value. The follow three points are things to consider.

1. Figure out why the land is for sale.

2. Research the area to see if utilities are available for a house.

3. Evaluate potential development projects that might take place.

First, you need to figure out why the land is for sale. There are many reasons why land goes up for sale, from honest to dishonest reasons. Zoning restrictions can cause issues with building a house, and you will need to be aware of these restrictions when evaluating a property for purchase. Land might also go on sale because of hidden problems with the land itself, such as ground too soft to lay foundation in. Make sure you know the land and about the property before you buy.

Second, research the area to see if it has all the necessary utilities to support a house. If there are electrical lines, but no sewer access and rules against a septic tank, then the land won't be worth as much. Keep in mind that if the land doesn't have all the utilities it needs available, it might have them available in the future. Land development close by might mean that a sewer line is put in. Purchasing the land before those events happen would allow you to get it for less money, and ultimately have a larger profit.

Lastly, make an evaluation of the area and what potential residential development and commercial development project might take place. Development projects can both benefit and detract from the value of a house. If you happen to find a perfect piece of land, for instance with a clear view of the ocean, an open area capable of putting a house on, and forest surrounding the house on all other sides, then development projects are not as negative. If you don't have those, and the development would make your land feel crowded, then it would be a detraction. The main idea is to think long term about your investment. - 23200

About the Author:

Buying land at the beach is a great way starting point for an investment property. For more information, check out Jeremy Szechenyi's awesome Blog on beach property investments.