Buying Land in Texas: 7 Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

[courtesy of our friends at LandHub.com]

Buying land is very different from buying a home, especially when it comes to due diligence. Too often, buyers focus on the property’s potential without fully understanding the restrictions, costs, or risks that can seriously impact value and usability.

Here are seven common land-buying mistakes — and how to avoid them before they cost you time, money, or both.

1. Not Understanding Zoning and Land Use

Zoning determines what you can legally do with a property. Many buyers assume land can be used however they want, only to discover it’s restricted or unsuitable for their plans.

Tip: Always verify zoning and permitted uses with the city or county planning department before making an offer.

2. Overlooking Legal Access

A property can be reachable but still lack legal access, which can prevent financing, permitting, or development.

Tip: Have a professional title search done to confirm legal access, easements, and right-of-way rights.

3. Underestimating Utility Costs

Utilities aren’t always available or affordable on vacant land. Bringing in water, septic, electricity, or internet can quickly blow a budget.

Tip: Contact local utility providers for cost estimates before closing to ensure the numbers make sense.

4. Ignoring Soil and Environmental Factors

Soil quality, drainage, flood zones, wetlands, or contamination can dramatically affect buildability and resale value.

Tip: Review existing soil or environmental reports, or order new ones to understand the property’s limitations.

5. Skipping a Land Survey

Without a professional survey, buyers risk boundary disputes, encroachments, or access issues down the road.

Tip: A survey provides clarity and protects you from costly legal problems later.

6. Forgetting Ongoing Costs

Vacant land still comes with expenses like property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and potential future assessments.

Tip: Calculate annual holding costs, especially if you plan to own the land long term.

7. Letting Emotion Drive the Decision

Scenic views and “perfect” locations can lead buyers to rush into deals that don’t meet their actual needs.

Tip: Stick to your criteria, do the research, and lean on an experienced land professional to keep decisions objective.

Final Thoughts

There are plenty of great land opportunities across Texas — but the right one requires careful planning. By understanding zoning, access, utilities, and long-term costs, you protect both your investment and your future plans.

Land purchases reward patience and due diligence. When done right, they can be incredibly powerful assets.

Thinking about buying or selling land in Texas?
Whether you’re evaluating a potential purchase, preparing land for sale, or just exploring your options, having the right information up front can make all the difference. If you’d like guidance on zoning, access, utilities, or market value, I’m always happy to be a resource and help you make confident, informed decisions. Andrew Pikoff & The Pikoff Team - Keller Williams Preferred [Powered By PLACE] at (832) 793-7860

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