Tips For Would Be Land Developers

The current housing shortage in the United States presents significant investment opportunities for land developers and investors. The scarcity of land, especially in major cities, has increased the value of even modest-sized tracts of land that were previously considered undevelopable.

Proper planning and due diligence are crucial when it comes to land development. Rushing into property acquisition or investing money into construction plans before assessing project feasibility can indeed lead to pitfalls. It’s important to consider factors like zoning regulations, environmental impact, infrastructure availability, and market demand before proceeding. In the long run, a well-thought-out approach can prevent costly mistakes and ensure successful development.

Through every phase of the land development process, an experienced engineer can be an asset, even during very early conceptual planning. Engineers help investors evaluate the feasibility of proposed development and they help identify site constraints that might prohibit development. Here are some general tips for potential developers to help minimize risks:

• Hire skilled and knowledgeable experts to guide you through the development process

• Research and understand the zoning regulations for the property and steps required if rezoning is necessary

• Be cautious of properties that are over encumbered with existing easements which might limit development potential

• Hire a competent engineer or engineering firm to design the development project