“Buy Dirt” Top 5 down and dirty MUSTS when purchasing land!

Jordan Davis and Luke Bryan…  Their song “Buy Dirt”, is one of my favorite songs, especially when screaming it at the top of my lungs during Luke Bryan concerts at the Coastal Credit Union, located on the outskirts of Raleigh.  And yes, my voice does sound better when drowned out by 30,000 other singing and screaming fans.  But what many fans may not know, is land is one of the best and safest investments out there.  Land in NC can be very valuable, but no two soils are equal.

I am certain by now you have heard all of the talk about interest rates, housing crises, low inventory, and new construction challenges.  These are just a few of the reasons many are looking for raw land to purchase and eventually build.  If you are one of the thousands doing the same in NC, I just wanted to provide a little “‘dirt’ for thought”

1. Soil type… a social scientist is well worth the money when looking at land.  They are skilled in discussing the type of soil found on the land which makes all the difference in making your dream a reality.
2. Moisture in the soil… if you need a septic for your build – this is HUGE… you don’t want your money going into your new “SINK HOLE”
3. Soil contaminants… anywhere from E. coli to uranium, nitrate, and/or even radon can be found in your soil.  Look into these contaminants to ensure you are equipped with the right tools to develop and live safely.
4. Vegetation around?  If you notice that there are mostly mature trees spaced out with open ground cover and not much “scrub” brush, that can be indicative of good soil.  Anytime you are faced with dense brush that’s not very tall and packed together it’s probably a sign of wet soil.
5. What to look for ?  if needed a septic:   look for coarse, dry grains of light sand and maybe some gravel mixed in – not dark sticky stuff that is wet like clay.  if wanting to grow pastures: the target soil is PH- proper PH management is key because it influences the availability of many soil nutrients for plants.

I am emphasizing, I am NOT a soil scientist, but a Realtor who will hit the “dirt” to uncover and partner with skilled soil scientists to ensure you will pleased when you “Buy Dirt”.