5 Quick Checks Before You Buy Land in North Carolina

Land is where buyers get surprised the most, because the things that matter can't be seen from the road.

Here are five things every land buyer should check.

1. Will it perc?

If there's no sewer, the county health department has to approve the soil for a septic system. No septic approval can mean no house. Ask for an existing permit, or make your offer depend on getting one.

2. Is there legal access?

The land needs to touch a public road or have a recorded, deeded easement. A dirt path that neighbors have "always used" is not the same thing.

3. Where are the lines?

A current survey shows the real boundaries, easements and acreage. Old fences and plats aren't always right.

4. What can you build?

Check zoning and any restrictive covenants. They can control home size, manufactured homes, livestock and whether you can split the land later.

5. How will you pay for it?

Land loans usually need a bigger down payment than a home loan. Talk to a lender early.

Thinking about buying land? Call or text Erika at 980-282-0830 and she'll walk you through it.

For the full checklist, see the land buying guide.