Many people dream of owning their own piece of land in Colorado, a state known for its beautiful scenery and limitless adventure opportunities. However, finding cheap land in Colorado requires savvy shopping strategies that take into account market conditions and zoning requirements. Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities to secure budget land in Colorado that is ideal for hunting, farming or building rental homes. This article covers proven tips for locating discounted land buying situations, whether you are seeking large acreage investment properties or smaller residential/recreational lots closer to civilization across this scenic Western state.
One of the most common ways to find cheap land in Colorado is through direct sales from owners. By purchasing directly from a property owner, you can avoid paying realtor fees and commissions, saving you thousands of dollars on your Colorado land purchase. Additionally, sellers often prefer cash buyers because they offer a smoother transaction without financing contingencies and appraisal issues. Because of this, it is common for cash buyers to offer 15-25% below asking price when bidding on vacant Colorado land.
Another option to consider is purchasing a property from a real estate investor who is looking to liquidate the land. This can be an excellent way to find cheap land in Colorado, since you will be working with a professional who understands the value of this type of asset and is in a position to negotiate an attractive deal for both parties.
Lastly, you can also check public records and online land auction sites to locate cheap Colorado land. For example, searching county recorder websites for expiration dates of redemption notices can reveal affordable land that has been encumbered by unpaid taxes and could go to auction if not paid by the deadline. Additionally, networking with local real estate investors and land acquisition companies can lead to off-market wholesale deals. These types of companies know what is going on with the Colorado land market and can identify bargains that aren’t even listed on the MLS.
To gain an understanding of the people who live on the fringes of our society, author Ted Conover immersed himself in the remote community of trailer dwellers that dotted the rugged landscape of Costilla County. His experiences resulted in the book, Cheap Land Colorado: Off-Gridders at America’s Edge Knopf, 2022, which explores the lives of those who choose to live off grid on inexpensively purchased plots of land far from services in a high-altitude desert environment of dust, cold and wind. While it’s certainly not for everyone, there is something to be said about a life removed from the hustle and bustle of modern living that allows people to focus on personal growth in a natural environment. For these reasons, more and more people are embracing this lifestyle. This influx of people is contributing to rising prices in rural areas, but there are still opportunities for buyers to purchase affordable land in Colorado. The thriving economy and scenic beauty of the state make this a place worth investing in, if you know where to look.