How to Buy Land Without Regret: 7 Questions to Ask First

Buying land is one of the most exciting—and rewarding—investments you can make. Whether you’re dreaming of building a home, starting a farm, or simply owning a piece of the countryside, the possibilities are wide open. But before you sign on the dotted line, it’s worth slowing down and asking a few key questions.

At First South Farm Credit, we’ve helped thousands of people finance their dream piece of land. And we’ve seen firsthand how asking the right questions early can save you time, money, and stress down the road.

Here are seven questions every land buyer should ask before making a purchase:

1. What’s your long-term goal for the land?

Are you planning to build a home? Start a farm? Use it for hunting or recreation? Your intended use will shape everything from location to financing options. Be clear about your goals so you can find land that fits your vision.

Mike Besh, Senior Loan Officer based in Athens, Alabama shares key insight to finding the property that best fits your needs. “While viewing the property consider how the property may change with seasons and weather, can you only easily cross that creek in the summer?  Is there a creek or area that you need to cross in winter that becomes a major access problem when trying to get to the spot you would want to hunt.”  

2. Do you understand the zoning and land use restrictions?

Just because a property looks perfect doesn’t mean you can use it the way you want. Check local zoning laws, deed restrictions, and environmental regulations. A quick call to the county planning office can save you a major headache later.

3. Is the property accessible year-round?

Some rural properties are beautiful—but hard to reach. Make sure there’s legal access to the land and that roads are maintained. If you’ll need to build a driveway or bridge, factor that into your budget.

4. What utilities or infrastructure are available—or missing?

Does the land have access to water, electricity, or septic systems? If not, what will it cost to add them? Knowing this upfront helps you avoid surprises and plan your financing accordingly.

5. Have you walked the land with a professional?

A good real estate agent or land consultant can help you spot things you might miss—like flood zones, easements, or boundary issues. Don’t rely on satellite images alone. Boots on the ground matter.

6. How will you finance the purchase?

Land loans are different from traditional home loans. They often require a larger down payment and have different terms. Working with a lender who specializes in land—like First South Farm Credit—can make the process smoother and more flexible.

7. Are you emotionally ready to wait for the right property?

Buying land isn’t always quick. The right piece might take time to find. Be patient, stay focused on your goals, and don’t settle for something that doesn’t feel right.

Final Thoughts

Buying land is a big step—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By asking these questions early, you’ll be better prepared to make a smart, confident decision.

And when you’re ready to talk financing, we’re here to help. Our team specializes in land loans and understands the unique needs of rural buyers. Let’s talk about how we can help you turn your land dream into a reality.