What are the Best Websites to Buy Land in Texas?

Texas is big. Really big. And if you're in the market for land here, you've got your work cut out for you. But don't worry - the internet has made the search a whole lot easier. Gone are the days of endless drives down dusty roads, squinting at "For Sale" signs. Now, you can scout out properties from the comfort of your couch. But with so many websites out there, where do you start? Let's break it down.

First, a quick reality check. The Texas land market is hot right now. According to Texas A&M's Real Estate Research Center, rural land prices jumped 24% in 2022, hitting $3,725 per acre. That's a big leap. At the same time, we're losing working lands - about 2.2 million acres between 1997 and 2017, says the Texas Land Trends report. So if you're thinking of buying, now might be the time.

Now, let's dive into some of the best websites for your Texas land hunt:

Land Watch (LandWatch.com)

Land Watch is like that friend who knows a little bit about everything. It's got farms, ranches, hunting land - you name it.

Cool features:

• Detailed search options
• Price history (so you know if they're gouging you)
• Loan calculators (because unless you've got oil money, you'll probably need financing)
• Mobile app (for browsing while you're supposed to be working)

Why it's worth a look: 

It's easy to use and gives you a good overview of what's out there. Plus, the price history can be a real eye-opener.

Land and Farm (LandandFarm.com)

This site caters to the "I want to escape the city" crowd. If you're dreaming of a farmhouse and some chickens, start here.

Neat stuff:

• Lots of rural properties
• Maps showing what's nearby (important when you're in the middle of nowhere)
• Articles on land ownership (because it's not as simple as it looks)

Why you might like it: 

If you're thinking about farming or ranching, these folks speak your language. They focus on rural properties and know their stuff.

LoopNet (LoopNet.com)

LoopNet is mainly for commercial real estate, but don't skip it if you're looking for land. Especially if you're thinking about development.

Stand-out features:

• Serious market analysis tools
• Detailed zoning info (crucial if you've got big plans)
• High-quality images and 3D tours

Why it's worth checking: 

If you're wearing your investor hat, LoopNet gives you the tools to make informed decisions. It's like having a pro real estate analyst on your team.

Zillow (Zillow.com)

Yeah, Zillow. It's not just for houses. They've got land listings too, especially near cities.

What's good:

• User-friendly interface (your grandma could use it)
• Their famous Zestimate tool (take it with a grain of salt for land, though)
• Info on nearby areas (schools, neighborhoods, etc.)

Why give it a shot: 

If you're new to this whole land-buying thing, Zillow's familiar setup can ease you in. Just remember, their data isn't always spot-on for vacant land.

Redfin (Redfin.com)

Like Zillow, Redfin is branching out into land. It's worth a look, especially for plots near urban areas.

Cool tools:

• 3D walkthroughs (for the few properties that have them)
• Their own value estimate tool
• Easy tour scheduling

Why you might like it:

Redfin's tech-savvy approach makes searching feel less like work. If you're looking near a city, definitely check it out.

Land.com

Part of a bigger network of land sites, Land.com is all about rural properties. If you're dreaming big, start here.

Good stuff:

• Lots of search options
• Quality photos and videos
• Info on financing (because most of us aren't paying cash)

Why you'll dig it: 

For big rural properties, Land.com is hard to beat. Whether you want a working ranch or just a lot of space, they've got you covered.

AcreTrader (AcreTrader.com)

This one's a bit different. Instead of buying whole properties, you buy shares in farmland. It's like stocks, but for dirt.

Interesting features:

• Fractional ownership (get your feet wet without diving in)
• Detailed financial projections
• They do the due diligence for you

Why it's worth a look

If you like the idea of owning land but don't want to deal with actually, you know, owning land, this could be for you. It's a new way to invest in Texas soil.

Texas Farm Credit (TexasFarmCredit.com)

These folks are primarily lenders, but they've also got a property listing service. It's a hidden gem for rural and agricultural land.

What's good:

• Focus on rural properties
• Lots of info on financing (it's what they do, after all)
• Resources on farm management

Why check it out:

If you're looking at agricultural land, these guys know their stuff. The combination of listings and loan info can be really helpful.

Final Thoughts

Buying land in Texas is a big deal. These websites can help, but remember - they're tools, not magic wands. The Texas land market can be as unpredictable as a Texas tornado. Property values can swing wildly based on all sorts of factors.

Keep in mind that selling land often takes time - typically 1-2 years for vacant land. That can create opportunities if you're patient.

And here's some free advice: while these websites are great, there's no substitute for local knowledge. Companies like Land Boss, with their 100+ deals, can offer insights you won't find online.

So use these sites as a starting point. But before you sign anything, talk to real estate pros, land surveyors, maybe even a lawyer. Buying land is complicated, and you don't want any surprises.

Whether you're dreaming of a little homestead or a sprawling ranch, these websites can help you find your piece of Texas. Just remember - out here, everything's bigger. Including the opportunities. Happy hunting!

Frequently asked Questions (FAQs)

Are online land listings as reliable as traditional real estate listings? 

Online land listings can be quite reliable, but it's important to verify the information. Many reputable websites update their listings regularly and work directly with real estate agents. However, always double-check the details with the listing agent or owner, and consider visiting the property in person before making a purchase decision. 

How current are the property prices on these land-buying websites? 

The currency of prices can vary by website. Some platforms update their listings daily, while others might have less frequent updates. It's best to check the "last updated" date on the listing if available. Always confirm the current asking price directly with the seller or listing agent, as the Texas land market can be quite dynamic. 

Can I trust the acreage and boundary information provided on these websites? 

While most websites strive for accuracy, it's crucial to independently verify property boundaries and acreage. Consider hiring a professional land surveyor to confirm these details. Don't rely solely on the information provided online, especially for larger parcels where small discrepancies can make a big difference. 

Are there any hidden fees when using these land-buying websites? 

Most land-buying websites are free for buyers to use. However, some may offer premium services or require registration for certain features. Always read the terms of service carefully. Remember, while the website use might be free, you'll still need to factor in standard costs associated with land purchases, such as surveys, title searches, and potential realtor fees. 

How do I know if a piece of land I find online is suitable for my intended use? 

Websites can provide basic zoning information, but it's crucial to do your own due diligence. Contact the local county planning department to verify zoning laws, building codes, and any restrictions that might affect your plans. Also, consider factors like access to utilities, road conditions, and potential environmental issues. While websites can give you a starting point, thorough personal research is essential for making an informed decision.

‍