How not to buy
. . . a "pig in a poke"

OK - so you've heard the expression about buying a pig in a poke before. It involves making a purchase without knowing all the facts - right?

So - who would buy a large tract of mountain land without first learning its size, location, physical characteristics, elevation, price, and access to roads?

The answer - hopefully - is "no one"!

When you call a broker for information about land, you should expect to promptly receive a detailed information package. It should include a location map, topographical map, a survey (if available), tax maps, and loads of information about topography, streams, views, wildlife, and unusual amenities such as waterfalls, the grouse population, and special seller financing.

If you call for information and all you receive is a barely readable, xerox copy of a 65 year-old hand-drawn survey, stop right there. You may be staring that empty poke right square in the eye.

Don't settle for misinformation or none at all. The best properties are offered openly, with all details square on the table. Ask for, and expect to receive, accurate, up-to-date answers to your land buying questions. Accept no less without suspicion of receiving the proverbial "empty poke."