Smart Checklist for Buying Vacant Land

Investing in vacant land for commercial real estate can be lucrative with careful consideration and thorough research. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a first-time buyer, follow these steps to ensure a wise investment

Advantages of Buying Vacant Land: Emilee Collins, CCIM, highlights the benefits:

  1. Customization and Flexibility: Tailor sites to specific business needs.
  2. Increased Revenue Potential: Developments can rapidly increase land value.
  3. Asset Diversification: “Buy and hold” strategy spreads investment risk.

Buying Vacant Land Checklist:


Research Area:

  • Understand growth potential in the location.
  • Consider city or town leaders’ plans for the area.


Zoning:

  • Determine allowable land use, setbacks, and restrictions.
  • Check proximity to interstates and easements.


Utilities:

  • Assess availability of water, sewer, electricity, and waste disposal.
  • Understand infrastructure costs for areas lacking utilities.


Site Survey:

  • Identify topography, drainage, and existing structures.
  • Conduct percolation tests for septic system viability.


Site Plan:

  • Engineer a comprehensive plan for commercial or residential development.
  • Plan includes buildings, parking, stormwater mitigation, and access points.


Approved Plans:

  • Investigate previously approved plans for the land.
  • Uncover potential opportunities or constraints.


Budget Considerations:

  • Account for significant expenses like site planning, sewer installation, and road adjustments.
  • Understand impact on potential land use and value.


Legal Considerations:

  • Engage a real estate attorney to navigate legal aspects.
  • Assess zoning laws, property access, rights of way, encroachments, and outstanding claims.

Bottom Line: Buying vacant land requires diligent research, meticulous planning, and professional guidance. Following this checklist ensures a solid investment meeting your specific needs.

Episode 18 | Networking, Education, and Technology through CCIM with James Milner, CCIM

May 26, 2026

In this installment of our Behind the Building mini-series, we head to the High Country to sit down with a true titan of the Western North Carolina market: James Milner, CCIM.

As the President and Owner of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate, LLC, James has been a cornerstone of the region’s commercial landscape since 2008. His firm isn’t just about transactions; it’s a full-service powerhouse providing everything from high-stakes brokerage and leasing to specialized consulting and appraisal services. Whether he’s working with a first-time local investor or a national franchise, James brings a level of technical precision that has become his professional trademark.

Episode 17 | Inside the CCIM Designation with PJ Doherty

May 6, 2026

In this Behind the Building episode, Emilee Collins, CCIM sits down with Marcus Thomas, AIA, NCARB, President and CEO of KEi Architects, to explore the intersection of visionary design and community impact. As the leader of a prominent minority-owned architecture firm serving the Southeast, Marcus brings a unique perspective on how thoughtful design drives long-term institutional goals and equitable growth.

Episode 16 | Cost Segregation Explained with Kevin Giles

April 9, 2026

In this episode, Emilee Collins, CCIM sits down with Kevin Giles, Director at Giles Flythe Engineers, to pull back the curtain on the technical and financial lifecycles of commercial real estate. Since 2010, Kevin has been a pivotal partner for investors and developers, providing the critical due diligence and tax optimization strategies that turn a “good deal” into a high-performing asset.