B. Moss

Selling Land FSBO? What About the Paperwork?

February 25, 2025

Deciding to sell your land For Sale By Owner? This certainly can save you money on commission fees, however, it also means you’ll be responsible for navigating the entire paperwork process yourself. From listing documents to sale contracts, there are specific forms andse disclosures required when selling vacant land privately in most states. If you’re considering a for-sale-by-owner approach to selling your land, understanding the paperwork trail is crucial. Here’s a rundown of the key documents you’ll likely need to properly execute the sale.

Property Listing Documents

When selling land by owner, you’ll need to create your marketing listings with details about the property, pricing, location, and terms. Basic listing documents include:

  • Property fact sheet/description
  • Photos/video tours of the land
  • Vacant land disclosures
 

These will form the foundation for online listings, print advertising, and collateral to present to interested buyers.

Proof of Ownership

Of course, you’ll need to prove you own the rights to sell the land. Common documents establishing proof of ownership include:

  • A dated copy of the deed
  • A current title report/search
  • Survey maps and legal property description
  • Recent property tax statements
 

None of these documents are required, but having these records on hand will be helpful for buyers and/or their real estate agents.

Purchase Agreements & Contracts

Once you find a buyer interested in purchasing your land, you’ll need to draft a legally binding purchase agreement that complies with your state’s laws. This contract will spell out all the terms of the sale, including:

  • Sale price and payment details
  • Closing timelines
  • Contingencies
  • Final walkthrough procedures
  • Conveyance details for transferring titles/deeds
 

Seller’s disclosures are also typically required as part of the purchase agreement paperwork for selling land privately. These disclose any known issues, defects, liens, or other material facts about the property.

Transfer Documents

After the purchase agreement is solidified, there’s one final set of documents required to officially transfer ownership and complete the sale. This includes documents like:

  • Deed transferring titles/ownership to buyers
  • Any lender paperwork if the buyer is getting a mortgage
  • Title company documents for insurance and fees
  • Closing statements with credits/costs for each party
  • Release documents for any existing mortgages/liens
  • Documentary stamps & taxes for recording the new deed
 

The benefit here is that title companies typically handle all the documents above. Having an experienced title company or real estate attorney oversee this final paperwork for selling land by owner is highly recommended. They can ensure all i’s are dotted and t’s are crossed for a clean closing. However, the downside is if you have a really small property or a property with a value in the lower thousands, then you cannot use a title company. Many title companies have a minimum purchase price. While selling vacant land privately cuts out realtor commissions, handling the paperwork trail yourself requires care and due diligence. From listing materials to ownership verification to the final transfer documents, having the right paperwork in order will be critical to successfully selling your land by owner.

Meet In the Middle

The best middle point would be to work with a land-buying company as you will get the best of both worlds.

  • No Commission – Just as you would expect when selling For Sale By Owner, you can also save on commission. Typically independent land-buying companies do not charge any type of commission. A bonus is they also save on closing costs because they usually cover those as well.
 
  • Paperwork – A step above having to sell For Sale by Owner, they handle all the paperwork for you. If you have questions, they are usually happy to answer them and even jump on a call to dive deep into any concerns.
 
  • Quick Sale – Lastly, a benefit that you won’t receive selling the land on your own or using a realtor, is a quick sale. There is no way you can expedite the sale of your property. You have to just let it sit on the market. Whether that is for weeks, months or sometimes even years. When you use a land-buying company in Texas, the process is fast. You receive an offer. Once accepted, the land-buying process begins with a plan to close on a set date.

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

Topics You Must Cover