What to ask before buying land in Pender County

A few acres, room for a garden, maybe some chickens and a porch to watch the sunset from. That’s why a lot of people come looking around Burgaw, Rocky Point and Wallace.

Buying land isn’t quite like buying a house in town, though. Before you fall in love with a pretty piece of property, here are the questions I’d ask.

Will it perc?

If there’s no city sewer, you’ll need a septic system. That means the soil has to pass a test to show it can handle one. In North Carolina, the county health department does this evaluation. A lot that won’t pass may not be buildable at all, so ask whether a septic permit or soil evaluation has already been done.

Where does the water come from?

Many rural properties use a private well. Ask whether there’s an existing well and how old it is. If there isn’t one, budget for drilling one. If the property already has a home, have the water tested before you close.

Is it in a flood zone?

Low-lying land is common in eastern North Carolina. Look the property up on the FEMA flood maps, and ask your insurance agent for a flood insurance quote early. It can change your monthly budget a lot. It’s also worth asking neighbors how the land handled the last big storm.

What’s allowed on it?

Check the zoning and any restrictions recorded on the deed. Some land has rules about manufactured homes, livestock, minimum house size or outbuildings. If you have plans for a shop, a barn or animals, make sure they’re allowed.

How do you get to it?

Is the road public and maintained by the state, or is it a private road the owners take care of? Is there a recorded easement if you cross someone else’s land to get in? A survey shows you exactly where your lines are.

Can you get internet?

Coverage varies a lot out here. If you work from home, check which providers serve that exact address before you make an offer.

What can you grow?

This is my favorite question. Much of our area has sandy soil that drains fast, and we’re in plant hardiness zones 7b to 8. That’s great for blueberries, figs, muscadines and a long fall garden. A soil test from NC State Extension costs little or nothing and tells you exactly what your land needs.

Let’s look together

I help buyers find land and country homes in Pender County and the Wilmington area, and I’m happy to walk a property with you and talk through all of it, the yard and garden included. Call or text me at 910-599-0325.

Kimberly Keech, REALTOR®, Blue Atlantic Properties LLC