If you’re a land or ranch owner considering selling, preparing your property before listing can significantly impact how quickly it sells and the price you receive. Here are some essential steps to take when getting your property ready for market.
Assess Your Property’s Condition
Before listing your land, take a walk (or drive) across the property to evaluate its condition. Consider the following:
- Are property lines clearly marked?
- Are there any overgrown areas that need clearing?
- Are fences, gates, and entry points in good shape?
- Are trails or roads accessible for potential buyers?
A well-maintained property makes a strong first impression and reassures buyers that it has been properly cared for.
Organize Property Documents
Buyers will want to see clear and organized documentation before making an offer. Make sure you have:
- Survey and boundary lines – If you don’t have a recent survey, it may be worth getting one.
- Deed and title information – Ensure there are no ownership disputes or title issues.
- Mineral, water, and timber rights – If applicable, clarify what rights convey with the land.
- Zoning and land use restrictions – Buyers need to know what they can and cannot do with the property.
Having these documents readily available speeds up the selling process and makes your listing more appealing.
Improve Access and Visibility
Land buyers often want to walk the property to get a feel for the terrain, access points, and usability. To enhance their experience:
- Mow or clear overgrown areas to show off the land’s full potential.
- Repair or improve roads, trails, and entryways to ensure easy access.
- Mark key features such as ponds, creeks, tree lines, or hunting areas.
The easier it is for buyers to explore your property, the more likely they are to make an offer.
Showcase Water Features and Natural Resources
If your land has ponds, creeks, or a well, highlight these features. Water access is a major selling point for ranch buyers, hunters, and recreational land investors. Make sure water sources are clean and visible, and consider improving any neglected areas.
For agricultural or pastureland, ensure that water sources for livestock are functioning properly.
Consider Soil and Land Use Reports
Many buyers, especially those interested in ranching, farming, or hunting, want to know the quality of the soil and the land’s best uses. Getting a soil test or having information on pasture productivity can be a big selling point. If your land has been used for agriculture, grazing, or recreational purposes, providing this history adds credibility and helps buyers make informed decisions.
Clean Up and Remove Unnecessary Items
If your land has old structures, abandoned equipment, or debris, now is the time to clean up. A well-presented property feels more valuable and is easier for buyers to envision their own plans.
- Remove unused fencing or broken gates.
- Dispose of old machinery, vehicles, or scrap materials.
- Tidy up barns, sheds, or any structures that will stay with the property.
Capture High-Quality Photos & Drone Footage
Marketing land is all about visual appeal. Professional photography, including aerial drone footage, can showcase the property’s size, layout, and unique features. Wide-open landscapes, tree coverage, water features, and road access should all be highlighted.
At Salt Plains Properties, we use top-tier photography and videography to ensure your listing stands out.
Price Your Land Competitively
Land values fluctuate based on location, size, accessibility, and demand. Work with a real estate professional who specializes in land sales to determine a competitive asking price. Avoid overpricing, as land tends to have a longer sales cycle than residential homes.
Ready to Sell? Let’s Get Started!
Spring is one of the best times to sell land, and now is the perfect time to prepare. If you’re ready to list your property or have questions about the process, contact Salt Plains Properties today. We’ll help you get your land market-ready and in front of the right buyers.