Tampa, FL-September 25th, 2024–Written By Nick Cannella
As land brokers, we’ve seen firsthand how strategic improvements and smart planning can dramatically increase the value of a property. Whether you’re selling raw land, agricultural acreage, or development-ready parcels, there are several steps you can take to ensure you’re not leaving money on the table. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the professional strategies we recommend to maximize the value of your land before putting it on the market.
Understanding Your Land’s Market Position
- Market Conditions Matter: Timing the market is critical. I always tell my clients to pay attention to what’s happening in their area. For example, if new infrastructure—such as highways, schools, or business parks—is in the works nearby, waiting for those projects to be completed can substantially boost the property’s value.
- Conduct a Thorough Land Evaluation: Every parcel of land has unique features that may appeal to different buyers. We look at:
- The proximity to urban centers or major roadways.
- Whether utilities are accessible.
- Any natural features like water sources or high ground that might make the property more attractive.
Site Preparation: Simple Improvements, Big Results
- Clearing and Landscaping: When potential buyers tour a property, first impressions are everything. Overgrown vegetation or unmarked boundaries can turn buyers off. Clearing the land and cleaning up overgrowth makes a big difference. It’s also important to maintain any natural beauty, as buyers often seek out properties with aesthetic appeal.
- A cleared site allows buyers to better envision how they could use the land, whether it’s for development or recreational purposes.
- Improve Access to the Land: Many times, I see landowners overlook this critical aspect. Easier access means more buyer interest. If your property lacks a clear entry point, installing a basic gravel road or trail can make a world of difference.
- Insider tip: Be sure to check local regulations before making access improvements, as road placement can be subject to zoning laws or environmental restrictions.
Re-Zoning Opportunities: A common strategy I recommend is exploring whether your property can be re-zoned for a higher-value use. For example, land zoned for residential or mixed-use purposes is often more valuable than agricultural land. The key is understanding what future buyers are looking for and how you can position your property to meet their needs.
- I often work with landowners to consult with local planning authorities on potential zoning changes that align with market demand.
Entitlements and Permits: Securing the necessary entitlements or permits for a specific use (e.g., residential development) can increase your land’s appeal and market value. By doing this work upfront, you save potential buyers time and effort, making your property stand out in a crowded market.
Highlighting Land Features with GIS and Mapping Tools
- Leverage GIS Mapping to Showcase Potential: Buyers are increasingly using data-driven tools to assess land. One of the most effective ways to showcase your property’s potential is through GIS (Geographic Information Systems) mapping. With GIS, we can highlight:
- Land boundaries.
- Topography and terrain features.
- Flood zones and environmental considerations.
Targeting the Right Buyers: Tailoring Your Approach
- Catering to Developers: If you’re marketing your land to developers, preparing the site and securing entitlements can be game-changers. Developers often look for properties that are ready to build on with minimal hassle. In some cases, subdividing the property into smaller lots can also increase value.
- Appealing to Recreational and Conservation Buyers: If your land is located near natural areas, lakes, or forests, it may attract buyers interested in recreational use or conservation. In this case, showcasing the natural beauty of the land is essential. I recommend investing in high-quality photography and drone footage to highlight key features like waterways, vistas, and wildlife habitats.
- Exploring Agricultural and Timber Opportunities: If your property is agricultural or timberland, showing how the land can be profitable for future owners is key. Providing information on soil quality, crop potential, or timber yields will appeal to buyers looking for investment opportunities in farming or forestry.
Professional Marketing: Getting Your Land in Front of the Right Eyes
- High-Quality Visuals Are Non-Negotiable: One of the first things I insist on is professional photography and drone footage. Great visuals can make the difference between a quick sale and a property that sits on the market for months. Drone shots, in particular, provide buyers with a bird’s-eye view of the property’s full potential.
- Work With an Experienced Land Broker: This may seem obvious coming from me, but partnering with an experienced land broker can make all the difference. We know how to position your property for maximum exposure and can tap into our network of potential buyers. We also handle all the complexities of the sale process, from listing to closing, ensuring you get the best deal possible.
Closing Thoughts: Selling Smarter, Not Harder
Maximizing your land’s value before selling isn’t about luck—it’s about knowing which improvements to make and when to make them. As a land broker, my job is to guide you through this process, helping you enhance your property’s value so you can attract the best buyers. Whether it’s securing entitlements, using GIS data, or improving accessibility, each step you take brings you closer to a successful sale. When you’re ready to sell, reach out to an expert who knows the market inside and out.
Thinking about selling your land? Let’s talk. At Eshenbaugh Land Company, we specialize in getting landowners the best price for their property. Contact us today!
