Owning land in Virginia can feel like holding onto potential — until it becomes a burden. Whether you inherited an empty lot, bought land to build but never did, or you’re simply tired of paying property taxes for something you’re not using, you’re not alone. Thousands of landowners across Virginia are asking the same question in 2025: “How do I sell my vacant lot — and is it even worth anything?”

In this full guide, we break down everything you need to know about selling land in Virginia, including:

• How vacant land is valued
• Zoning and legal considerations
• Tips for preparing a lot for sale
• The difference between selling with an agent vs. selling to a cash buyer
• How The Cash Offer Company helps Virginia landowners sell fast with no fees, commissions, or waiting

What Counts as a Vacant Lot?

In Virginia, a “vacant lot” refers to any parcel of land without a structure on it. This could include:

• Residential lots in suburban neighborhoods
• Rural or wooded acreage
• Unimproved city lots with access to utilities
• Landlocked parcels or oddly shaped land
• Inherited land that’s been sitting unused for years

How Is Vacant Land Valued in Virginia?

Unlike houses, land doesn’t have bedrooms, square footage, or staging appeal. Its value depends on:

• Zoning: Is it residential, commercial, agricultural, or mixed-use?
• Access: Does it have a legal road or easement?
• Utilities: Is water/sewer/electric nearby or already on-site?
• Topography: Is it flat, sloped, flood-prone, or wooded?
• Market demand: Is it in a growing area or a remote region with little development?

Common Reasons People Sell Land in Virginia

At The Cash Offer Company, we hear from landowners across the state who want to sell their lots for many different reasons:

• They inherited land they’ll never use
• The taxes are piling up with no return
• The lot was purchased to build, but plans changed
• The zoning changed and now development is restricted
• They live out of state and no longer want the responsibility

Do You Need a Survey to Sell Land?

Technically, no — but having a recent land survey can make things easier. Most title companies will require boundary verification before closing. If you don’t have a current survey, the buyer may request one during the due diligence period — or cover the cost themselves (as we often do).

If the lot is in a subdivision or part of a recorded plat, surveys are often on file with the county.

What About Zoning or Building Restrictions?

Before listing or marketing your land, it’s wise to confirm how it’s zoned and what it can legally be used for.

• Residential (R1, R2): Meant for single-family or multi-family homes
• Agricultural (A1): Can include farms, but often restricts subdividing
• Commercial: May allow storefronts, but has setback and parking requirements

To look up your lot’s zoning, visit your local county’s planning and zoning site. Here are links to some key jurisdictions:

• Richmond City Planning Department
• Chesterfield County Planning
• Henrico County Planning
• Virginia State Government

Do You Have to Clear the Lot or Add Utilities?

No — especially if you’re selling to a land buyer or developer. While it may add value, clearing trees or connecting utilities isn’t required for many land sales.

In fact, clearing land can sometimes reduce the value depending on how the future buyer wants to use it. It’s best to consult before making any changes.

Should You List With an Agent or Sell for Cash?

You have two main paths when selling a vacant lot:

Option 1: List With a Real Estate Agent

• May take 3–12 months to find a buyer
• Requires photos, signs, and sometimes a survey or perk test
• Buyers may make lowball offers and want financing contingencies
• You’ll pay commission fees (typically 6%)

Option 2: Sell Directly to a Cash Buyer

• No commissions or fees
• No cleanup, clearing, or listing effort
• Cash offer in 24–48 hours
• Closing in as little as 7 days

If you want to sell fast, avoid fees, and skip red tape, selling to The Cash Offer Company may be your best move.

We Buy Vacant Lots in Virginia, Including:

• Residential lots in Richmond, Henrico, and Chesterfield
• Rural acreage in Powhatan, Caroline, or Spotsylvania
• Wooded lots, inherited land, and parcels with title issues
• Lots with HOA restrictions, zoning setbacks, or limited access

Our Simple 3-Step Land Buying Process

1. Step 1: Contact us and tell us about your lot (location, size, zoning, etc.)
2. Step 2: We evaluate it and make a fair, no-obligation cash offer
3. Step 3: You pick your closing date — and we handle the paperwork

FAQs: Selling a Vacant Lot in Virginia

Do I have to pay taxes before selling?

No — unpaid taxes will be paid at closing out of the proceeds or factored into the offer.

What if I don’t live in Virginia?

We work with out-of-state owners all the time. Everything can be done remotely.

What if there’s a lien or judgment?

We handle title work and will help resolve any issues before closing.

Can I sell land that was inherited?

Yes. Whether it’s been through probate or not, we can guide you through the process and work with your estate attorney if needed.

Why Work With The Cash Offer Company?

We’re a husband-and-wife team based in Richmond, Virginia, and we’ve helped countless landowners sell vacant lots they no longer wanted or needed. Whether your land is zoned residential, agricultural, or commercial — or whether you have documents or not — we make the process fast, friendly, and fair.

Take the Next Step

Ready to sell your vacant lot in Virginia? Contact The Cash Offer Company today and get a no-obligation cash offer. Whether it’s ¼ acre or 20 acres, cleared or wooded, we’re ready to help you sell — on your terms.

Contact Information

The Cash Offer Company
Phone: 804-215-4004
Email: info@thecashoffercompany.com
Website: https://www.thecashoffercompany.com/

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, zoning, or real estate advice. Please consult your local planning office or attorney before making decisions about your property.