Last Updated on February 16, 2022 by Kravelv
Utah has been known by many for its vast breathtaking landscapes. It is the home to some of the most iconic sandstone and unique rock formations.
Many people flock here to retire, buy a second home, or just to have the option of buying land. Buying land comes with endless opportunities. However, buying land in Utah can come with many unexpected problems.
Buyers need to follow certain steps to ascertain they are getting what they are paying for when buying land in Utah. Listed below are key points that buyers need to address.
The Land
Water rights – Not all property in Utah comes with water.
Zoning laws – This is important if you plan to have livestock or planning to build multiply structures. You need to make sure the zoning allows it.
Soil tests – Soil tests will determine if you have any pollutants that are in the soil. In addition, it can show if the property is susceptible to foundation issues.
Tax Assessor – Checking in with the tax assessor will give you an estimate on what the projected taxes will be on the property. They can also give you a validation of what the land can be worth.
Survey – Getting a survey done will show the boundaries of the property. You want to make sure that they are not any encroachments on a nearby lot. This can save you a big headache in the future.
Getting Help
It can be overwhelming to obtain all the items above and to figure out what everything means. Using a local real estate agent that is knowledgeable in land purchases can not only help you with the above items but also help you with your financing needs.
Financing
Loan amounts – Know what the lender is willing to lend and what their requirements are on vacant property upfront. Lenders do not lend the same amount as they do on home purchases. This can greatly affect your purchasing power and is best to investigate this before you get knee-deep in the process of selecting a property.
Wrap Loans – If you are planning to build a home or structures on your land, find out if lenders offer a wrap loan that includes the land and the cost to build.
When buying land in Utah, it is best to do all your research up front so you can avoid headaches and unexpected costs in the future.