We Buy Land in Florida

Selling inherited land in Florida requires completing the probate process first. Florida probate typically takes 6-12 months for formal administration, though summary administration (available for estates under $75,000 or estates where the decedent has been deceased for more than two years) can be faster. Once probate is complete and you have clear title, you can sell the property. Many heirs choose to work with cash land buyers to avoid the additional time and cost of listing with a realtor. We help inherited property owners navigate the process and can often begin discussions during probate to ensure a quick closing once you have legal authority to sell. Florida’s probate requirements can be complex, especially for out-of-state heirs, so having an experienced buyer who understands the process makes everything simpler.

Florida land values vary dramatically by location and features. An acre near Tampa, Orlando, or along the Gulf Coast can be worth $15,000 to $150,000 or more, while an acre in remote parts of Central Florida or the Panhandle might be worth $1,000 to $5,000. Key factors include: proximity to growing metro areas along the I-4 and I-75 corridors, distance from coastal areas, road access (paved vs. unpaved vs. landlocked), flood zone designation and wetlands, zoning classification, and utilities availability. Coastal proximity commands premium prices, while interior agricultural land or properties in flood zones typically sell for much less. Online estimators rarely account for Florida-specific challenges like flood maps, hurricane zones, and wetlands regulations, so it’s best to get an evaluation from someone who understands the local market.

The best way depends on your timeline and goals. Traditional realtors can list your land on the MLS, but vacant land often sits for 1-3 years and typically sells for 20-40% below asking price, if it sells at all. Many Florida landowners choose to sell directly to cash land buyers for a faster, more certain outcome. This approach works especially well if your property is in a flood zone, has wetlands issues, is landlocked, lacks utilities, or has title complications. Cash buyers close in 30-60 days and handle all paperwork, saving you months of waiting and thousands in holding costs like property taxes, maintenance, and potential hurricane damage. If you’re not in a hurry and your land has strong features (utilities, paved access, desirable location near the coast or major cities), listing might net a higher price – but expect a much longer process.

In Florida, buyer demand concentrates in specific areas. Growth corridors along I-4 between Tampa and Orlando see exceptional interest, as do properties within 30 miles of expanding Southwest Florida cities like Fort Myers, Naples, and Sarasota. The I-75 corridor through Central and Southwest Florida attracts steady demand. Coastal properties within reasonable distance of Gulf beaches or Atlantic shorelines command premium buyer interest. The Panhandle from Pensacola to Panama City draws buyers seeking emerging markets and retirement destinations. However, remote interior parcels in counties like Polk, Highlands, Glades, Levy, and Dixie face much more limited buyer pools. Properties with significant wetlands, severe flood zone restrictions, or no access to major employment centers can sit unsold for years. That’s why many landowners in less desirable areas choose to sell to investors rather than waiting for a retail buyer who may never come.

Florida has no state income tax, which means no state-level capital gains tax—a significant advantage for sellers. You’ll only owe federal capital gains tax, which is either 0%, 15%, or 20% depending on your income level and how long you owned the property. However, if you inherited the land, you likely received a “step-up in basis” to the property’s value at the date of death, which can significantly reduce or eliminate your capital gains tax burden. To calculate your gain, subtract your basis (what you paid or inherited value) and any selling expenses from your sale price. Florida’s lack of state capital gains tax makes it one of the most seller-friendly states in the country. Every situation is different, so consult with a tax professional to understand your specific federal obligation. The good news: when you sell to us, we cover all closing costs, so you won’t have additional out-of-pocket expenses at closing.

Florida allows property owners to sell land without a realtor—this is called “For Sale By Owner” or FSBO. You’re not required to use an agent or attorney, though many sellers find legal help useful for title work and contracts. Florida law requires certain disclosures, and while the comprehensive disclosure requirements primarily apply to residential structures, sellers must still disclose known material defects. You must ensure a clear title and satisfy any existing liens or mortgages before transfer. Florida is unique in that closings are typically handled by attorneys rather than escrow companies in many other states. When you sell to cash land buyers like us, we handle all the legal requirements, work with trusted Florida title companies and real estate attorneys, and ensure everything is done properly according to Florida law. You’ll never need to worry about navigating complex paperwork, flood certifications, or legal requirements – we take care of it all.