Rental Property Investor · Myrtle Beach · Member since 2019 · 38 posts · 25 votes
Hey All, I am hoping someone on here has been in a similar situation and has some knowledge to share.
One of my properties is roughly 500 SQFT shy of being able to subdivide into a separate lot. I have done my homework and a few of the neighboring properties have spare sqft they can sell and still be within the size to subdivide if they wish. Really I am just looking for knowledge on what it may cost to buy such a small amount of land.
I have gotten a new survey on my property, my realtor has reached out to the property’s selling agent (the lot is up for sale), getting in touch with my town’s zoning department has been a hassle.
Attorney · Salt Lake City, UT · Member since 2025 · 144 posts · 180 votes
1y
Hey Jared!
You're in a situation that many property owners come across when trying to maximize the potential of their land—just shy of the required square footage to subdivide. The good news is that you’ve already taken several important steps: getting a new survey, identifying potential neighboring properties with excess land, and initiating contact through your realtor. These actions put you ahead of the curve and show you're serious about moving forward.
Purchasing a small strip of land from a neighboring parcel—sometimes referred to as a "lot line adjustment" or "boundary line agreement"—can be feasible, but it often involves more than simply agreeing on a price per square foot. The cost can vary widely based on location, zoning, desirability, and the seller’s willingness. While you might expect to pay something like $5 to $20 per square foot in a typical residential area, sellers may ask for a premium due to the value you’re gaining (the ability to subdivide), or simply because it’s not convenient for them. It’s also possible they would prefer not to complicate their own property sale or future use. The value to you might far exceed the typical market value, so expect negotiation.
Beyond the purchase price, you’ll likely incur additional costs, including attorney fees, updated surveys for both parcels, potential appraisals, and municipal processing fees. If the boundary line change must go through a zoning or planning board, you may also face public hearings and professional fees (e.g., engineering or planning consultants). That said, if the neighboring property is already up for sale, the timing could work in your favor. The seller may be more open to negotiating a minor carve-out before closing, especially if you can move quickly and make it easy for them.
The most difficult part often ends up being dealing with the local zoning and planning departments. If you're having trouble getting clear answers from the town, consider hiring a local land use attorney or zoning consultant. They often know how to navigate the system efficiently, and their fee can be a good investment if it helps push your project through faster and with fewer obstacles.
Note: This information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, financial, or investment advice. No attorney-client, fiduciary, or professional relationship is established through this communication.