What to Know Before Buying Raw Land in the Seattle-Tacoma Area
Pacific Northwest Buying raw land in the Greater Seattle-Tacoma area can be an exciting and rewarding investment—whether you're dreaming of building a custom home, setting up a retreat, or investing for the future. But purchasing undeveloped land is a lot more complex than buying a move-in-ready house. From septic feasibility to water access and topography, there are some critical considerations to evaluate before you make an offer. As a local realtor who’s helped many clients navigate these decisions, I’m here to break down the essentials. 1. Septic System Feasibility Most raw land in rural parts of Pierce and King County won’t be connected to city sewer, which means you’ll need a septic system. Before purchasing, it's crucial to conduct a perc test (percolation test) to determine if the soil can absorb wastewater. If the land fails this test, it may not be buildable—or may require an expensive engineered system. Counties also have varying regulations and lot size minimum...