Can You Buy Land and Live on It? Essential Guide

Owning land and living on it is a dream for many people. Whether it's living off the grid, parking an RV or building a cozy tiny house, buying land offers numerous possibilities. But the question remains: can you buy land and live on it? The short answer is yes, but there are various important factors to consider, from local zoning laws to utility access. 

In this post, we'll dive into the different ways you can live on your land and provide useful tips to help you make informed decisions.

Can You Camp on Your Own Land?

Camping on your own land is not always as simple as setting up a tent and enjoying the stars. While it's your property, local zoning laws often restrict the amount of days you can camp. Some areas allow temporary camping on private land, but others may require permits or impose restrictions, particularly for long-term stays.

Key Considerations Before Camping on Your Land:

Zoning Laws: Check local regulations in your county to see how long you can camp without it being classified as a permanent dwelling. Some regions allow short-term camping without issue (often 14 days at a time), while others have stricter rules.

Utilities and Waste: For extended camping, access to water, waste disposal, and possibly electricity will be required in most counties. You might need to install a septic system or composting toilet.

Emergency Access: If your land is remote, consider how accessible emergency services are and whether there's reliable communication (with Starlink, the doors are opening).

Camping can be a great way to test out your land, especially if you plan to live on it in an RV, tiny house, or mobile home eventually. Just be sure to stay within legal guidelines to avoid any complications.

Can You Buy Land and Live in an RV?

Living full-time in an RV offers a flexible and cost-effective lifestyle, but before you park your RV on your own land, it's important to understand local regulations. 

Many areas don’t permit permanent RV living unless it's within designated zones.

Key Considerations for Living in an RV on Your Land:

Zoning Restrictions: Some regions limit or prohibit full-time RV living. Make sure the area you’re considering allows permanent RV residency on private land. Costilla County for example allows for RV permits for up to 60 days.

Utility Access: For long-term living, you’ll need reliable access to water, electricity, and sewage services. Installing these can add extra costs to your setup.

Weather Considerations: RVs aren’t always equipped for extreme weather conditions, so be mindful of local climate and ensure your RV can handle the elements.

While living in an RV on your land can be an excellent option for flexibility and mobility, make sure to check local county restrictions and plan for how you will manage, power, waste, and water as well as seasonal changes before committing to this lifestyle.

Can You Buy Land and Build a Tiny House?

Tiny houses have gained immense popularity among those seeking a minimalist, affordable lifestyle with lower living costs. They can range from yurts to containers homes to stick biulds. They offer freedom and flexibility, but before you buy land to build your tiny house, it’s essential to ensure that the property aligns with local zoning laws and building codes. 

Not every area allows tiny houses as primary residences, and some have minimum square footage requirements that a tiny house may not meet (i.e. some counties require at least 600 sqft for example).

Zoning and Legal Considerations

Before purchasing land, research local zoning laws in that county, as they vary widely depending on where you plan to build. Some regions allow tiny houses in specific residential zones, while others may prohibit them altogether. 

If you plan to buy land for homesteading or set up alternative housing like a tiny house, ensuring the property meets these legal requirements is essential. Failure to do so could prevent you from building or living on your land.

Utilities and Off-Grid Living

While tiny houses are small, they still require access to utilities like water, electricity, and waste disposal, just like traditional homes. If you’re considering buying land to build a tiny house in an off-grid location, you'll need to plan for alternative solutions, such as power (solar or wind), water (well or cistern), and human waste (composting toilets if allowed else septic or sewer if available). 

These off-grid options often come with added costs and logistical challenges, so careful planning is necessary.

Financing and Resale Value

Financing a tiny house can be tricky, as banks may not offer loans for smaller builds in certain regions. Additionally, resale value can be a concern, particularly if tiny houses aren’t yet common or popular in the area where you’re buying land. 

Before committing, it's important to consult local professionals who understand the market for tiny houses to ensure your investment holds long-term value. If you plan to buy land online cheap or in remote areas, research local demand for tiny homes to better understand potential resale challenges.

Can You Buy Land and Live in a Mobile Home?

Mobile homes offer a budget-friendly, convenient alternative to traditional housing. But just like RVs and tiny houses, there are legal considerations when it comes to living in one on your land. Many regions have specific zones for mobile homes, and some neighborhoods may restrict them entirely. Some require that they were build after a certain date (i.e. 1985).

Things to consider when planning to live in a mobile home:

Zoning and permits: You’ll need to verify that the land you buy allows for mobile homes.

Foundation and setup: Mobile homes require a stable foundation and utility connections, which may involve additional costs. You often need a concrete pad or foundation before you can build anything.

Insurance and financing: Insuring a mobile home can be different from insuring a traditional home, and financing options may vary as well.

Important Factors to Consider When Buying Land

Buying land is a major investment, so it's essential to ensure that the property meets your needs and long-term goals. 

Whether you're planning to build a home, set up a tiny house, or use the land for homesteading, there are several important factors to consider before purchasing.

1. Zoning Compatibility 

Zoning laws determine how a piece of land can be used. Some areas are zoned strictly for residential purposes, while others may allow mixed-use, agricultural, or commercial activities. Always check local zoning regulations to ensure the land is suitable for your intended purpose, whether it's building a home, living in an RV, or starting a homestead.

2. Utilities Plan 

One of the most important considerations when buying land is whether the property has access to essential utilities such as water, electricity, and sewage systems. If these are not readily available, you may need to install them, which can be costly and time-consuming. Off-grid options like solar power or water wells are alternatives, but they require careful planning.

3. Road Accessibility

Make sure the land has proper access to roads and transportation routes. Remote properties can present logistical challenges, such as difficulty reaching services or emergency assistance. Consider how far the land is from nearby towns, medical facilities, and grocery stores, especially if you plan to live there full-time.

4. Soil Quality

If you're buying land with the intention of building a home or growing crops, understanding the quality of the soil is crucial. Poor soil can affect your ability to build stable structures or successfully farm the land. Conduct soil tests or see if there are similar developments in the subdivision to check for issues such as drainage problems or soil contamination, especially if you plan to start a homestead.

5. Flood Zones and Natural Hazards

Always investigate whether the property is located in a flood zone or in an area prone to natural disasters such as wildfires or earthquakes. Land in high-risk areas may require additional insurance and could affect the safety of your home. Understanding these risks is essential to making an informed decision and protecting your investment.

Taking these factors into account will help ensure that the land you purchase is well-suited for your plans, whether you're buying land to live on, homestead, or build a permanent home.

When Is the Best Time to Buy Land for Building a House?

Timing is crucial when buying land, especially if your goal is to build a house. Land prices fluctuate based on market conditions, and buying at the right moment can help you secure a better deal and maximize your investment, but generally, land appreciates 10% per year on average.

If you're planning to buy land for homesteading, set up an RV or tiny house, or build your dream home, understanding the timing can significantly affect your success.

Here are key factors to consider when determining the best time to purchase land for building a home.

Economic Downturns

During economic recessions, land prices often drop, making it an ideal time to purchase. With fewer buyers in the market, you may have more negotiating power, allowing you to buy land at a lower cost. 

This is particularly helpful if you're looking to buy land online instantly or invest in a long-term project. Economic downturns present a unique opportunity for those who want to secure land for future development.

Seasonal Factors

The time of year can also influence land prices. Purchasing land during the off-season, such as winter, may offer you more leverage in negotiating a better deal. Fewer people shop for land in colder months, which can give you an advantage if you're prepared to make a purchase when demand is low. 

If you plan to buy land for RV or other alternative housing, such as a tiny house, timing your purchase in the off-season could save you money.

Local Market Trends

Stay informed about regional development and local market trends. New infrastructure projects, like highways, schools, or shopping centers, can significantly boost the value of nearby land. 

Buying land before these developments are completed can increase your property's value over time. If you’re considering land in places like Colorado, where buying land online cheap is possible, watching local developments is especially important.

Should You Buy Land or a House?

Deciding whether to buy land or an existing house depends on whether you have more money or time (and willingness to put the effort in). Many states like Colorado are cheaper to buy land and build. Both options have their advantages and challenges, and the right choice for you will depend on how you envision your future living situation.

Buying Land

Buying land provides you with the ultimate flexibility. You can design and build your dream home, set up a homestead, or even explore alternative living options like placing an RV, mobile home, or tiny house on the property. This option is ideal if you're seeking to create something unique or live off the grid. 

However, developing raw land takes time and additional resources. You’ll need to account for everything from building permits and zoning laws to installing utilities like water, electricity, and waste disposal.

If your goal is to live in an RV or build a tiny house, buying land can be a great option, but you must ensure the property allows for these uses. Understanding zoning regulations and utility access is one of the most important things when buying land, as it can greatly affect your plans. 

Additionally, buying land for homesteading can offer the freedom to grow your own food and live sustainably, but it requires thorough research and preparation.

Buying a House

Buying an existing house offers immediate accommodation and typically comes with fewer complications regarding utilities and permits. Financing a house is generally easier since banks are more likely to provide loans for established homes, and you can move in right away. 

This option is great for those who have a W2 income with a great debt to equity ratio . If you’re more focused on settling down in a community without the hassle of construction, purchasing a house may be the better choice for immediate benefit, but prepare to pay a lot of money in mortgage interest through the duration of the mortgage.

What’s Better for You?

If you value the flexibility of creating your own space—whether it's building a custom home or living in an RV or mobile home—buying land might be the best option. You’ll have the freedom to design a living space that suits your needs, but it requires patience and potentially higher upfront costs. You’ll also have the freedom to finance it on your own timeline - project-based. 

For those wondering when to buy land to build a house, it’s important to consider economic conditions and market trends to get the best deal.

On the other hand, if you prioritize convenience, buying a house might suit your lifestyle better. It provides instant shelter and allows you to avoid the complexities of developing land. If you’re not sure what is better to buy—land or a house—it’s essential to assess your long-term goals and financial capabilities.

Final Thoughts

Yes, you can buy land and live on it, but the process involves understanding zoning laws, utility access, and potential obstacles. Whether you dream of camping on your property, living in an RV, building a tiny house, or placing a mobile home, doing your research and understanding local regulations is crucial.

From deciding when to buy land to choosing between a house or alternative living options, the journey of owning and living on your land can be a rewarding one. So, are you ready to take the plunge and start your land-owning adventure? 

With proper planning, your dream of owning land and living on it can come true.