How to Spot a Lowball or Predatory Land Offer

Many landowners receive letters, texts and calls offering to buy their land quickly for cash. Some buyers are fair. Many offer a fraction of market value and count on owners not knowing what their land is worth.

Red Flags

• An offer arrives before anyone has seen the land or asked about it
• Pressure to sign quickly or 'before the offer expires'
• A price far below recent sales in your area
• Requests to sign a contract that lets the buyer 'assign' or resell it
• Fees deducted at closing that weren't explained up front
• Requests to sign power of attorney or deed documents remotely without a title company

Protect Yourself

• Never sign anything the same day you receive it
• Check recent comparable land sales before responding
• Use a reputable title company or real estate attorney for any sale
• Talk with a family member or trusted advisor first
• Remember you are never obligated to respond to an unsolicited offer