Tampa, FL, March 31st, 2025–Written by Chris Bowers, ALC, CCIM
As available land continues to disappear across Florida, the wisdom of Mark Twain rings truer than ever:
“Buy land—they’re not making any more of it.”
In today’s hot market, infill sites are in high demand, and larger parcels for development are getting harder to come by. That’s where property assemblage comes in—a creative solution that can unlock hidden value.
What Is a Property Assemblage?
A property assemblage occurs when two or more parcels of land—often owned by different parties—are combined into a single, larger site. The combined land often sells for more than the sum of its parts, especially if the assemblage opens the door to higher-density development, commercial use, or strategic investment.
In other words, assemblage can change the game for developers and landowners alike.
Why Is Assemblage So Challenging?
Assembling multiple parcels is rarely simple. Some common hurdles include:
- Unwilling sellers who aren’t interested in moving
- Unrealistic price expectations once word spreads of a larger deal
- Zoning or access issues that make a combined site less feasible
Often, one key holdout can derail the entire deal—turning a promising opportunity into a dead end.
That’s why strategy, patience, and discretion are essential to navigating successful assemblages.
The Role of Confidentiality in Assemblage Deals
In many cases, the buyer prefers to stay anonymous—and for good reason. Once sellers catch wind of a potential assemblage, they may raise their asking prices dramatically, assuming they hold all the leverage.
One of the most famous examples? Walt Disney’s secret land purchases for what would become Walt Disney World in the 1960s. Using anonymous entities, Disney assembled nearly 28,000 acres across 51 different property owners. Most brokers didn’t even know who they were working for!
Once the truth came out, land prices skyrocketed—from $80 per acre to over $80,000 per acre. This illustrates how quickly public knowledge can shift a deal—and why confidentiality remains a cornerstone of successful land strategy.
Thinking About an Assemblage Deal?
Whether you’re a developer seeking to assemble land or a property owner exploring the potential of selling with your neighbors, having the right advisor in your corner makes all the difference.
📞 Call me today at (813) 468-9292 or email chris@thedirtdog.com to discuss your goals, your land, and how we can approach the opportunity—strategically and confidentially.
