From wide-open prairies to fertile farmland, North Dakota offers land buyers a bounty of potential and the chance to invest in space, opportunity, and natural beauty.
Whether you’re dreaming of starting a family farm or holding land as a long-term investment, understanding how to buy land in North Dakota is your first step toward making a confident purchase.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about North Dakota’s unique land market, so you can find the right parcel and move forward with clarity.
First, Understand Your Land Use Goals
Before you browse listings or book a showing, take time to define your land use goals. This first step will influence almost every decision that follows, including where you buy, how much land you need, and what types of zoning and features to prioritize.
Some common reasons people buy land in North Dakota include:
- Agriculture – North Dakota’s productive soil and flat terrain are well-known, especially in the Red River Valley and eastern plains. If you plan to farm, then soil type, irrigation potential, and crop history are key factors to consider.
- Recreation – The state offers exceptional opportunities for hunting, fishing, and off-grid retreats. Western North Dakota is particularly popular for its wildlife and seclusion.
- Homesteading – For those dreaming of self-sufficiency, look for parcels that allow residential building, have access to utilities or wells, and offer space for gardens or livestock.
- Investment – Buying land in North Dakota as a long-term investment can offer value appreciation and low carrying costs, particularly in areas poised for growth.
Clearly defining your intent will make it easier to filter listings and ask the right questions along the way.
Research Land Market Trends
You also want to take some time to understand current market dynamics. Here are a few trends to watch:
- Price differences by region – Eastern North Dakota, known for its fertile agricultural land, tends to command higher prices per acre compared to the more rugged terrain of the western region.
- Increased demand for recreational land – In recent years, more buyers have shown interest in off-grid cabins and vacation properties.
- Stability for agricultural land – While the market fluctuates, agricultural farm land in North Dakota remains a stable long-term investment thanks to the state’s strong farming economy.
Staying informed about market trends can help you decide when to buy land in North Dakota and which regions are best aligned with your goals.
Explore Different Types of Land Available
Once you’ve defined your goals and understand the market, the next step is exploring the types of land available in North Dakota. Importantly, each type comes with different considerations.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common:
- Agricultural land – This type of land is ideal for farming or ranching. Look for parcels with rich loam soil, reliable water access, and a history of crop rotation.
- Recreational land – If you’re looking for somewhere to hunt, fish, or camp, consider purchasing recreational land in North Dakota. Prioritize properties with natural features like wooded cover and water sources.
- Residential land – Residential land includes parcels intended for building a home. Confirm that zoning allows for residential development and check for access to utilities like electricity, septic, and internet.
- Raw or underdeveloped land – A flexible but potentially more complex option is undeveloped land in North Dakota. These parcels may lack roads, utilities, or clear buildability. A survey and soil test are especially important here.
When browsing land for sale in North Dakota, understanding the nuances of each land type ensures you’re looking at properties that support your intended use.
Check Zoning Regulations and Access Rights
Zoning and access rights are crucial to consider, as they can directly impact what you’re allowed to do with the property and how easily you can get to it.
Start by checking the county’s zoning regulations:
- Is the parcel zoned for agriculture, residential, or commercial use?
- Are there minimum acreage requirements for building?
- Can you legally park a camper, build a cabin, or raise livestock?
Next, confirm that the land has legal and physical access. Not all parcels come with a deeded road or right-of-way. Consider asking:
- Does the property have a public or private road?
- Are there any easements for utilities, neighbors, or conservation use?
- Will I need to share or maintain access routes?
Understanding these legal details helps avoid surprises that could delay or derail your plans.
Conduct a Title Search and Land Survey
Before making a purchase, conduct a title search and a professional land survey. These due diligence steps provide legal protection and ensure you understand exactly what you’re getting when you purchase a property.
A title search will uncover:
- Existing liens or mortgages
- Unpaid property taxes
- Easements or restrictions on use
- Chain of ownership and any disputes
Meanwhile, a land survey defines:
- Exact property boundaries
- Encroachments from neighbors
- Fence lines or access points
- Buildable areas or topographic features
Work with a Land Specialist Familiar with North Dakota
Buying land in North Dakota comes with unique local considerations, from seasonal access issues to well rights and wind easements. That’s why it’s smart to work with a local land agent, broker, or real estate attorney who knows the area.
A land specialist can help you:
- Identify parcels that match your goals
- Navigate zoning and local ordinances
- Review land features like soil and drainage
- Negotiate pricing and purchase terms
Working with someone who understands the terrain and local regulations is the best way to ensure you’re making the most informed decision possible when buying land in North Dakota.
Find the Land That’s Right for You With Land.com
Buying land in North Dakota is a rewarding opportunity—especially when you know how to navigate the process. Fortunately, that navigation is made easy when you connect with experienced land professionals through Land.com.
Land.com hosts hundreds of listings and expert contacts across North Dakota and beyond.
Whether you’re starting a farm or staking your own recreational escape, the right parcel is out there, and Land.com is here to help you find it.
Sources:
Experian. How Does a Title Search Work? https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/how-does-title-search-work/
Home Stratosphere. When the Starter Home Becomes a Stretch: Budget Homebuying in North Dakota Today. https://www.homestratosphere.com/when-the-starter-home-becomes-a-stretch-budget-homebuying-in-north-dakota-today/
ND Tourism. View North Dakota’s Wondrous Wildlife.
North Dakota Mineral Resource. North Dakota Geological Survey. https://www.dmr.nd.gov/ndgs/ndnotes/ndn1.asp
North Dakota State University. North Dakota cropland values up double digits again in 2023. https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/news/newsreleases/2023/april/north-dakota-cropland-values-up-double-digits-again-in-2023
Rocket Mortgage. What Is a Land Survey? https://www.rocketmortgage.com/learn/land-survey#:~:text=A%20land%20survey%20is%20used,of%20a%20parcel%20of%20land
