Expert: Brian Bocchieri - 9/26/2008

Question
Hello Brian,

I am interested in learning if one can make money in real estate by just buying land in different areas, maybe internationally even, in anticipation that the land might give good future increases in value. For example, a potential for industrial, residential, commercial, mining, minerals development or other types of development.

I'm just not into fixing up houses, renting, leasing office space, etc. Just buying land and hopefully reselling at a later profit.

Would you know of any books, CDs, courses, or other trade publications or materials where one could gain the knowledge of how to purchase land for future resale profits intelligently?

Thank you very much.

Sincerely,

Mike E.

Answer
Hello Mike;

Purchasing land is a very good way to profit.  The most important  item to understand is the zoning of the property ( what can be built on the site what is the allowable use).  One of the  most profitable ways is to find land in which you are able to change the zoning from say a low density housing to a higher density, or from a residential use to a commercial use.  These changes all greatly increase the value of the property.  

Another way to profit is to purchase farm land and to rezone and subdivide the property for building lots then sell the lots.

I would be careful of international  property it will be hard to control.  You may also find it harder to get all the information you require.

As far as any books I am not familiar with any that I could recommend to you.

I hope this has helped.

Wishing you all the best.

Brian Bocchieri