Selling your land online can help you reach more buyers, close faster, and avoid agent fees — but only if you know how to avoid the common risks. From scam buyers to confusing paperwork, some pitfalls can cost you time, money, or worse.
At UNITY, we’ve worked with many landowners who first tried to sell on their own and ran into delays, fake offers, or legal headaches. That’s why we’ve put together 10 essential safety tips to help you sell land online with confidence.
1. Verify the Buyer
Before moving forward with any offer, make sure the buyer is legitimate.
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Search their name and phone number online.
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Check their social media or business presence.
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Ask for references or proof of funds.
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For companies, look for a real website, licenses, and past land transactions.
If someone refuses to share basic info or rushes you, that’s a red flag.
2. Watch Out for Overpayment Scams
If a buyer says, “I’ll pay more than your asking price, just send me back the difference,” walk away immediately.
This is a classic scam. The initial payment will bounce, and you’ll be left with nothing.
Legitimate buyers don’t overpay and ask for a refund.
3. Use Secure Payment Methods Only
Stick with safe, traceable forms of payment like:
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Escrow services
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Wire transfers
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Verified cashier’s checks
Avoid anything unusual, like cash apps, gift cards, or promises to “pay later.” If it sounds odd, it probably is.
4. Work with a Title Company or Real Estate Attorney
Even if you’re doing a direct sale, using a professional helps you:
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Confirm ownership and legal status
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Handle funds securely
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File and record all closing documents
This protects both parties and keeps everything above board.
5. Keep Digital Records of Everything
Save copies of:
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Emails, texts, and call notes
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Offers, contracts, and counteroffers
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Payment confirmations and receipts
Having a complete record protects you in case of a dispute or if a deal falls through.
6. Understand the Tax Impacts of Selling
Land sales can come with:
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Capital gains taxes
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Transfer fees
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IRS reporting requirements
A quick chat with a tax advisor can save you from a big surprise at tax time.
7. Check Local Zoning and Land Use Rules
Make sure your land:
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Has clear, legal boundaries
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Meets zoning requirements for how it’s being marketed
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Doesn’t have hidden restrictions (like wetlands or access issues)
This helps you avoid misleading buyers and delays during closing.
8. Use Digital Signature Tools
When you’re ready to sign agreements, use a trusted digital signature platform like:
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DocuSign
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HelloSign
- Panda Sign
These tools are secure, easy to use, and legally valid. They also save time and prevent fraud.
9. Consider Selling to a Direct Land Buyer
If you’re not getting serious offers — or just want to avoid the hassle — a direct buyer can simplify the whole process.
At UNITY, we buy land directly from owners.
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No listings
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No showings
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No agents or commissions
We give you a fair cash offer, and you choose when to close.
10. Know When to Get Help
If selling your land is taking too long, getting confusing, or feeling risky, get help.
You don’t need to be an expert to sell land successfully. You just need the right support.
Skip the Stress. Sell with Confidence.
Selling land online can be safe and simple, with the right approach. These 10 tips will help you avoid scams and stay in control.
But if you’d rather skip the risk and sell fast, UNITY is here to help.
- No fees
- No agents
- No stress — just a clear, honest cash offer.
