The number of sources and listings are endless, so a good
rule of thumb is to begin with a broad selection (so you feel like your
search was comprehensive) and then narrow it quickly.
You may search multiple listings for the area you determined
to be desirable. There are several sites on the web (many linked to real
estate agencies that may help you), or you may telephone an agent local
to where you are currently for some suggestions.
If you have access to the internet, use a search engine
to find the available land near your desired location, be it “for sale
by owner (FSBO)” or a realtor’s listing. Search: land for sale
southwest Virginia or realtor south central Virginia, etc. Does the town
or locality have its own website with real estate listings? Check it out…
Real estate agents and buyers agents can be very helpful.
It is recommended that you
interview the person you plan to work with and make sure you both have a
clear
understanding of what you are looking for, how much you can really afford
to pay and
how much you have to work with as a deposit and down payment. Full honest
disclosure is important to not waste your time or that of agent.
Make a visit to the area. Go when you have ample time,
so you can really engage with the town/city and its points of interest.
When you arrive, pick up a local paper and any “trader”
publications-- they often have a wealth of information, and you may check
the classified ads for properties currently on the market. While browsing,
you may learn of an upcoming auction of property or an estate sale. There
will also be some free magazines available with the local realtor.
Visit the Chamber of Commerce to pick up some materials;
they generally know (or have contacts who know) who owns what and who’s
selling.
You may wish to do a little advertising of your own. Prepare
in advance some business or personal cards with your contact information,
and encourage acquaintances to let you know of any possible buys they stumble
upon. Tack onto a public bulletin board a half-sheet request: “Wanted…”,
with tear-offs, so they may respond to you. You could place a wanted ad
in that local paper you picked up. It may be a real bargain if it saves
you time and energy.
Try to end up with a few properties that you will want
to look at in more detail.
Copyright 2004
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