🏡 Episode Summary
Buying vacant land sounds simple: find a great lot, design your dream home, and build. But in the Portland real estate market, “buying dirt” comes with layers of due diligence that can make or break your project.
In this episode of Off the Record, Joe and Makayla break down the 15 most important factors to consider before purchasing land—from zoning and setbacks to utilities, financing, insurance, and resale value. Whether you’re eyeing acreage in Yamhill County, a view lot in the hills, or beach property on the Oregon Coast, this conversation will help you avoid expensive surprises.
If you’re considering building in the next 1–3 years, or simply curious how land purchases work differently from traditional home buying, this episode is a must-listen.
⏱️ Episode Highlights
[00:01:08] – What “Buying Dirt” Really Means
Why purchasing vacant land is completely different from buying a resale home.
[00:03:28] – Off the Record: Open House Confession
Joe shares why open houses rarely sell homes—and who they’re really for.
[00:08:31] – Zoning & Land Use Regulations
Residential vs. agricultural vs. mixed-use—and why zoning is step one before anything else.
[00:09:53] – Setbacks, Height Restrictions & Short-Term Rental Rules
How local regulations (especially in places like Cannon Beach) can impact your plans.
[00:11:58] – Why You Need a Broker When Buying Land
Land due diligence is complex. Here’s why professional guidance matters.
[00:12:51] – Access & Easements Explained
Legal and physical access, road maintenance, and who’s responsible.
[00:13:18] – Utilities: Water, Sewer, Power & Internet
Well vs. city water, septic systems, electricity costs, and why internet access can make or break a deal.
[00:14:52] – Soil Stability, Flood Zones & Fire Risk
Wetlands, environmental overlays, and the increasing importance of insurability.
[00:16:02] – Topography & Building Envelope
Why a 2.5-acre lot doesn’t always mean you can build anywhere on it.
[00:18:09] – CC&Rs & HOA Restrictions
Architectural guidelines, materials, square footage minimums, and community rules.
[00:19:00] – Title, Easements & Boundary Surprises
From shared driveways to mineral rights—what can show up in a title report.
[00:25:31] – True Building Costs & Timeline Expectations
Driveways, landscaping, permits, and why 9 months may be optimistic.
[00:29:32] – Financing Land vs. a Home
Higher down payments, shorter loan terms, and construction-to-permanent loans.
[00:31:32] – Insurance & Taxes
Why vacant land taxes are different—and what happens after you build.
[00:33:05] – Future Development & Resale Considerations
Data centers, highways, school districts, and long-term value planning.
[00:34:06] – The Team You’ll Need
Broker, builder, lender, surveyor, soil engineer—who should be involved and when.
📣 Thinking About Building? Let’s Talk.
Every home was once just a piece of dirt. The difference between a smart investment and a costly mistake often comes down to preparation.
If you’re considering buying land in Portland or the surrounding areas, visit LivPortland.com to connect with the team, explore listings, or schedule a consultation.
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For more information about buying or selling in the Portland Metro real estate market, please visit www.LivPortland.com or contact us directly.
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