· Dirt Road Real Estate
A practical checklist for buying raw land in Arizona: access, zoning, utilities, soils, title, taxes and more.
Why a checklist helps
Raw land has no house to inspect, so the homework is on paper and on the ground. This checklist covers the main items to look at before you commit.
1. Legal access
Confirm recorded access to the parcel and find out who maintains the road.
2. Zoning and permitted uses
Ask the county what you can build, whether RV use is allowed and for how long, and what permits are needed.
3. Easements and CC&Rs
Read every recorded easement and any subdivision rules. Know exactly what each one allows and restricts.
4. Water
Find out whether water is hauled, shared or from a well, and what each option would involve.
5. Power
Ask whether grid power is nearby or whether you will rely on solar. Get an installer's opinion if needed.
6. Soils and septic
Arrange a perc test or talk to a septic designer about what system the land is likely to need.
7. Flood zones and drainage
Check flood maps and walk the land to see where water runs during storms.
8. Boundaries and survey
Find the corners. If they are unclear, consider a survey.
9. Title and taxes
Use a title company, review the title report, and look up current property taxes with the county assessor and treasurer.
10. Visit in person
Walk the land and the road in. Visit at different times of day if you can.
Need a hand?
Dirt Road Real Estate works with rural land across Mohave County and can help you work through this list. Call (928) 897-1364.
This post is general information, not legal or tax advice. Verify all rules with Mohave County and the appropriate professionals.
