How Builders Really Buy Land (And Why Most Investors Miss This)
In this episode of The Real Estate Investing Podcast, the conversation goes deep into the real mechanics of land development and entitlements with Tyler Findley, a land acquisition and development expert for an employee-owned homebuilding company in the Southeast.
Tyler breaks down what actually happens behind the scenes, from finding off-market land by knocking on doors (not sending mailers), to navigating zoning, utilities, engineering, and municipal approvals. If you’ve ever wondered how raw land turns into buildable lots or what builders truly look for when buying from investors, this episode pulls back the curtain and delivers practical, experience-driven insight straight from someone doing it at scale
The discussion also tackles bigger-picture issues shaping today’s market, including housing affordability, rising development costs, government regulations, and why so many projects fail despite “doing everything right.”
Tyler shares why understanding a builder’s buy box, utilities, density, and municipal plans can make or break a deal, and how smaller land investors can position themselves to sell to larger developers.
Whether you’re just starting out in land investing or already doing minor subdivides and considering entitlements, this episode is packed with perspective that can help you avoid costly mistakes and spot real opportunities. If you want to understand where land investing is headed, and how to stay ahead of it, this is one you don’t want to miss.
Chat with a
land investing
advisor
Discuss any questions you have
about land investing, our online community or courses!
