What this due-diligence check covers
Rules may control parent-tract history, minimum area, frontage, road construction, utilities, open space, stormwater and plat approval.
A concept that works mathematically may fail because of access, soils, water or infrastructure.
Why it matters before closing
Entitlement and improvement costs can exceed the land price, and approval may require time, bonds, professional design and public dedication.
What to verify
- Confirm subdivision jurisdiction and definition.
- Prepare a yield concept using actual constraints.
- Review water, wastewater and road standards.
- Estimate design, construction, review and carrying cost.
Red flags that deserve follow-up
- Prior unapproved divisions.
- No public or compliant private road access.
- Lots depend on unverified septic areas.
- Utility capacity or fire-flow unavailable.
Evidence to keep in the parcel file
- Boundary and topographic survey
- Concept plan and yield table
- Agency pre-application notes
- Infrastructure cost estimate
Questions to ask before the deadline
- How is subdivision defined here?
- What road standard applies?
- Must utilities be extended to each lot?
- Are clustered or conservation layouts allowed?
- What approvals must occur before sale?