B. Moss

How to Attract Developers When Selling Land in Maine

February 8, 2025

Maine’s pristine landscapes and growing real estate market offer excellent opportunities for landowners looking to sell. However, attracting developers to purchase land requires a strategic approach. Developers are not just seeking raw land; they’re looking for properties with potential, clear value propositions, and manageable hurdles. Here’s how you can position your property to stand out in the competitive Maine market.

Highlight the Property’s Development Potential

Developers are primarily interested in land that suits specific projects, such as residential communities, commercial buildings, or recreational spaces. To capture their attention, you need to showcase how your land aligns with their objectives:

  • Zoning Information: Confirm the property’s zoning and permitted uses through the local town or city office. For example, land zoned for mixed-use development or multi-family housing often attracts significant developer interest.
  • Infrastructure Proximity: Highlight nearby roads, utilities, and transportation hubs. For example, land within a few miles of I-95 or near a planned expansion for Route 1 could be especially appealing.
  • Environmental Assessments: Developers appreciate land with clear environmental documentation. If wetlands or conservation restrictions are minimal, emphasize that in your listing.

Provide Detailed Information About the Property

Transparency is key when marketing land to developers. The more details you can offer upfront, the more likely you are to attract serious buyers.

  • Lot Size and Dimensions: Specify the acreage and outline any irregularities in shape.
  • Topography and Soil Conditions: Provide surveys or soil test results, especially if the land is well-suited for construction.
  • Existing Structures or Improvements: Mention if the land includes access roads, wells, or septic systems.

Consider including a professional land survey or a property development feasibility study. These documents add value and demonstrate your property’s readiness for projects.

Market to Developers Directly

Instead of listing your land on traditional real estate websites, consider targeting platforms and channels frequently used by developers:

  • Specialized Listing Services: Websites like LoopNet or LandWatch are designed for commercial and development-focused buyers.
  • Professional Networks: Reach out to local builder associations or development firms in Maine. The Maine Real Estate and Development Association (MEREDA) is a great place to start.
  • Direct Outreach: Email campaigns to local developers or larger companies working on projects in Maine can yield results.

Emphasize Maine’s Growth Potential

Maine has been attracting attention for its mix of natural beauty and livability, which translates to growing demand for development. Share local insights that might entice developers:

  • Population Growth: Towns like Scarborough and Windham are seeing steady increases in population as people migrate from urban centers to quieter, affordable areas.
  • Economic Development: Highlight ongoing infrastructure projects or tax incentives offered by local municipalities to encourage development.
  • Tourism Appeal: If your land is near coastal areas or recreation spots, emphasize its potential for vacation rentals, hospitality, or eco-tourism projects.

Offer Flexible Terms to Developers

Developers often have specific financial requirements when purchasing land. Being open to flexible terms can make your property more attractive:

  • Seller Financing: Offering financing options may widen your pool of potential buyers.
  • Extended Due Diligence Periods: Developers may need additional time to evaluate the land’s potential. Being accommodating can help seal the deal.
  • Partnership Opportunities: Propose joint ventures where you retain partial ownership or profit-sharing from future developments.

Avoid Common Pitfalls

When selling land, it’s essential to avoid missteps that can deter developers:

  • Overpricing: Conduct a market analysis to determine a competitive price based on comparable sales in your area.
  • Lack of Preparation: Ensure all required documents—such as deeds, title reports, and property surveys—are readily available.
  • Unrealistic Promises: Avoid overstating the land’s potential. Developers are seasoned professionals who will verify claims thoroughly.

Work With Professional Land Buyers

If you’re unsure about marketing to developers or navigating the complexities of a land sale, consider working with professional land buyers. Companies like ours specialize in purchasing land directly from owners, offering a streamlined process without the need for traditional real estate agents. This option can save you time and provide you with fair, competitive offers.

Final Thoughts

Selling land in Maine to developers requires preparation, transparency, and targeted marketing. By presenting your property’s potential clearly, offering comprehensive details, and leveraging Maine’s growth trends, you can attract serious buyers and achieve a successful sale.

Table of Contents

Selling Concerns

What is the process for selling my land?

Our process is simple and easy. Just fill out our online form or give us a call. We will then schedule a time to view your property and make you an offer.

How much can I sell my land for?

The value of your land will depend on a number of factors such as its size, location, and condition. We will take careful consideration taking into account the market, location and features to provide a fair offer.

How long does it take to sell my land to you?

The value of your land will depend on a number of factors such as its size, location, and condition. We will take careful consideration taking into account the market, location and features to provide a fair offer. We can typically close on a deal within 30 days of receiving your signed contract.

Legal Concerns

What if one of the owners are deceased?

No worries. We are in the business of solving problems. We have worked with this issue on several occasions. Give us a call and we will work closely with you to fill in the appropriate documents to legally sell.

What if I owe a LOT of back taxes or have a lien on my property?

Not an issue. There is still value in your land. We will make you an offer and you will still leave the closing table with funds in your pocket. 

What if I don't have a copy of the deed?

This is not a concern. A deed is a legally recorded document. As long as the property was properly purchased, we can acquire a copy of the deed in the county records.

Closing Concerns

What is a title search and why is it important?

A title search is a process of investigating the ownership history of a property to identify any potential title defects. A title search is important to ensure that the seller has a clear title to the property and can legally sell the land. 

How much will I have to come out of pocket?

You will only leave the closing table with payment for your property. You will not pay for a survey (if one is required) and you will not be responsible for closing costs, which typically is required in a standard sale. We have you covered.

Do I need to be physically present in the city of the property to sell my property?

No, you have the option for an in person closing or a remote closing. You can come in person to the title office to sign the deed and receive payment directly or you can handle the closing remotely in which you will travel to a certified notary to sign necessary documents.

Yes! I'm Ready to Sell My Land

⚠︎ DISCLAIMER:

The contents of this blog are for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal or tax advice. You should consult a licensed professional for advise on your specific situation. The information in this blog may be changed without notice and is not guaranteed to be complete, correct, or up-to-date. This blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice

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