Before buying land, or any real estate, always be sure to take these steps (in that order):

1. Walk the land / property.
2. Get the property Appraised.
3. Get a Survey on the property, or use the most recent Survey if there is one
4. Check for Wetland.
5. Check to make sure the property is not in a Flood Zone.
6. Check to make sure there are no Deed Restrictions that will prevent you legally from doing X on your property.
7. Soil - Do a perc test on the soil to measures soil’s moisture absorption rate. Is it on city sewer, or will you have to put in a septic system? Do you have to put a treatment plant, or can you put in a traditional septic system?
8. Water - Will you get City Water or do you need a well?
9. Always try to talk to the neighbors.
10. Get a Title Policy to insure your Title from any potential future problems.