Understand who holds and uses the land

Ask your lawyer to establish the rights being offered, the seller’s authority and whether family, customary or other interests require further enquiry. Identify anyone occupying, cultivating or otherwise using the land.

Discuss how local evidence and records will be assessed. An introduction by a familiar person or a local letter should not end the investigation.

Check access in practice and in the documents

Visit the route and consider seasonal conditions, delivery vehicles and emergency access. Ask whether the legal access matches the road or track being shown.

For a home, consider travel to work, schools, healthcare and everyday supplies. For a farm or business, assess transport, storage and the services needed to operate.

Budget for a usable site

• Boundary identification and any appropriate survey work.
• Water supply, suitability for the intended use and installation or operating costs.
• Power, communications and backup arrangements.
• Drainage, ground conditions, clearing and waste management.
• Permissions for building or changing use, and the cost of professional work.

Fit the project to the land

Space and a low asking price do not establish suitability for agriculture, a home or tourism accommodation. Use appropriate technical advice for the intended project and ask about neighbouring uses and any environmental restrictions.

If you are managing from abroad, identify who will supervise work, approve spending and report problems before committing.