Are you dreaming of owning a slice of our beautiful countryside in Central Virginia? Before you make your move to Amelia, Cumberland, Powhatan, Nottoway, Prince Edward, or any of the other surrounding rural counties, there’s one critical factor you need to consider—land access.
I’m Anita L Williamson, Associate Broker with James River Realty Group and I specialize in helping you transition from the suburbs to the countryside.
Different Types of Access
Let’s walk through the different types of access you might encounter when buying raw land right here in our region. Let’s ensure your dream property is truly accessible!
1. Easements
First up, we have easements. An easement is a legal right to use another person’s land for a specific purpose, like a driveway or utility line. In rural Central Virginia, ensuring your property has the necessary easements in place means peace of mind knowing that you can legally reach your land without hassle.
2. Flag Lots
Next are flag lots, shaped like a flag and pole, providing privacy and seclusion. The pole represents your driveway leading to the main road which is a small strip of land that you own. These are popular in Central Virginia because a developer can get more lots to sell. These lots can be an advantage for those looking for a hidden retreat because they are tucked behind another lot, but remember, the driveway maintenance is all on you.
3. Road Frontage
Then there’s road frontage, the most straightforward access. Properties with direct road frontage on a public road offer the easiest access without crossing another person’s land. This is ideal for those looking to develop their land without complex legal agreements. They do carry a higher land value because lots with road frontage are sought after.
4. No Access
However, beware of properties with no access. These parcels are landlocked with no legal pathway to a public road, often requiring you to negotiate access rights with neighbors. In Central Virginia, confirming access before purchasing can save you from a potential legal battle. While legally a parcel of land can not be landlocked it can cause a costly headache to have to go to court to gain legal access.
5. Shared Driveways
Avoid Disputes
Lastly, we have shared driveways. Common in rural communities here, these require cooperation among neighbors for maintenance and access rights. Ensure any shared driveway agreement is documented to avoid future disputes.
Understanding the type of access your potential land purchase offers is crucial, especially in Central Virginia. Ready to find your perfect plot with ideal access? Contact me today, and let’s navigate the complexities of land buying together. Don’t just dream about owning rural land—make it a reality with the right knowledge and guidance!
I’m Anita L Williamson, helping you establish roots in Central Virginia.
