7 Tips For Increasing The Value Of Land Before Selling

Aug 16, 2022

Do you own a piece of undeveloped land or a lot that could use some work? If so, you might be wondering how you could sell it for profit.

Whether your land is untouched and pristine, partially developed, or covered in old junk, there are multiple steps that can be taken to increase its sale value.

In our experience, there are multiple steps to take in order to boost the value of any piece of land before listing it for sale.

Here are some of the most reliable methods for increasing the value of land.

Tip 1: Improve Access

To buyers, inaccessible land is unappealing. What good is having land if it isn’t easy to access or get around? If you don’t have comprehensive access routes, you can’t maximize the use of your land, and neither can anyone else. This could make or break a sale.

Regardless of how you or a buyer plan to use it, it’s a good idea to make sure that as much of your land is easily accessible. Consider adding service roads, foot trails, and any other pathways that simplify traversal to and around the land.

Ensuring that your land has adequate access routes will make it more appealing to buyers, who will then be able to see it for its full potential.

Green fields with trees and footpaths

Tip 2: Add Utilities

Individuals who own land with the potential for residential development should consider installing utilities. Without access to critical infrastructures like plumbing, sewage, and electricity, interested parties are more likely to overlook your land’s potential.

Increase the odds of receiving a great purchase offer by adding access to the utilities mentioned above.

It may seem costly upfront, but doing so will make your land much more appealing to potential buyers when it’s time to sell.

Tip 3: Add Or Improve Drainage

Stagnant groundwater can lead to issues like poor soil quality and the erosion of concrete foundations.

One of the fastest ways to boost the value of land is to install excellent drainage.

This might involve installing culverts or protecting pre-existing foundations by installing drain tile.

The specifics vary from case to case but having proper drainage will reduce the likelihood of issues from flooding down the road. Limiting future issues, such as flooding, makes land more appealing to potential buyers.

Tip 4: Create Better Views

Owners won’t get an offer that reflects the true value of their land if potential buyers can’t appreciate the view. If you’re selling land in a scenic place, highlight the natural beauty!

Shrubs, brush, and anything else obstructing scenic landscapes should be removed to increase visual appeal. This way, the land can be listed at a higher price.

When interested parties visit your land, they’ll be more inclined to buy it if presented with an unforgettable view. Taking advantage of natural landscapes is often an effective way to make a lasting impression.

Tip 5: Remove Old Structures

The value of land decreases as it becomes less usable. When a space is cluttered with dilapidated structures, it’s harder to utilize it for commercial purposes. Most buyers aren’t interested in purchasing a property that requires demolition before starting a project.

If you’re looking to increase value, clear your land of buildings and other structures that aren’t in operable condition.

Removing old structures will also increase visual appeal just like removing shrubbery. The result is the same: your land is more likely to make a positive impression on potential buyers. Ultimately, this could cause it to sell for a higher price.

Tip 6: Till The Land

Do you own land that has the potential or has already been used for agricultural purposes? Giving additional attention to your land’s soil could help you sell it for a higher price.

Some types of soil are more suitable for specific agricultural purposes than others. Understanding the soil on your land can be helpful when justifying higher listing prices. If your land has been used for agriculture in the past, it may be helpful to undergo soil testing to verify the soil’s fertility.

Soil quality matters for more than just plant growth. It can also affect installations like building foundations and septic tanks. Verifying soil quality will help establish buyer confidence when viewing your property.

A vineyard at sunrise

Tip 7: Inspect For Rare Elements (And Oil)

The presence of rare earth elements like silver and gold can drastically affect the value of land. The presence of other substances, like oil, can also help landowners sell for a higher price.

Consider having your land surveyed for both rare elements and oil. Geologists can test both topsoil and subsoil for the presence of anything valuable with the help of specialized equipment.

Imagine the regret a landowner would feel after learning they sold their land for significantly less than its true value!

Even if you believe your land is unlikely to have anything of value under the surface, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Get A Great Offer For Your Land

If you’re worried about receiving fair payment for your land, consider implementing all of the tips listed above. Together, they can make a serious difference in your land’s appraisal value.

At Dow Land, we buy land anywhere in the country. If you’ve already followed all of these recommendations and you’re ready to sell today, contact us now and request an offer with no obligation to sell.

Request An Offer With No Obligation To Sell