So maybe you’ve got a piece of land just sitting there. You’re not using it. Taxes keep rolling in. And you’re thinking, Alright, time to sell.
But here’s the catch: what if a buyer’s interested, but they can’t pay the full price upfront? Do you just move on? Lower the price? Walk away?
Not necessarily.
There’s a lesser-known option that might actually work out better for you long-term: creative financing.
Let’s talk about what that means—and how it can help you sell your land faster, without giving it away for pennies.
What Is Creative Financing?
Creative financing just means finding flexible ways to structure the sale outside of the traditional “cash upfront, deal done” model. When it comes to land, this can open the door to more buyers, especially folks who are serious but might not have a lump sum ready to go.
A few common types of creative financing for land sales include:
- Owner Financing (a.k.a. Seller Financing)
You act like the bank. The buyer makes monthly payments to you until the land is paid off. You either keep the deed until it’s done or hold a lien on the property. - Lease-to-Own
The buyer rents the land with the option to buy it later. You collect rent now—and if they buy later, great. If not, you still got paid. - Land Contracts
Similar to seller financing, but the buyer doesn’t officially own the land until the final payment is made. This can offer some protection on your end.
It might sound a little ‘out there’ if you’ve never done it before. But trust me—this kind of thing happens all the time in the land world.
Why Would You Offer Creative Financing?
Here’s the honest truth: land is a niche market. It doesn’t move as quickly as houses. So anything that makes it easier for someone to say “yes” is worth considering.
Creative financing can help you:
- Attract more buyers
Most banks won’t lend on raw land. So offering terms gives you a big edge. - Get a better price
If you’re offering flexible payments, the buyer doesnt always have to negotiate the price down. - Create passive income
Monthly payments can give you a steady cash flow, instead of one lump sum that disappears into bills. This also sometimes offer tax benefits on disposal. - Sell faster
Buyers are more likely to pull the trigger when the deal feels do-able.
Is There Any Risk?
There’s always some risk, of course. Life happens, and sometimes buyers stop paying. That’s why it’s important to use a proper land contract or promissory note—something in writing that protects your rights.
But honestly? In many cases, if a buyer defaults, you can take the land back and resell it. You still keep the payments they made. Not ideal, but not the end of the world either.
And if you’re not comfortable handling this on your own, there are land buyers (like us) who can either buy your land outright—or help walk you through selling with terms.
Real Talk: Should You Consider Selling?
If you’re in a rush and just want to be done with it, a cash offer might still be your best bet.
But if you’re open to monthly income—or you’re having a tough time finding a buyer—creative financing can be a game-changer. It gives you options. Flexibility. And sometimes, even more money over time.
Not sure which path makes sense for your land? That’s what we’re here for.
Let’s Talk About Your Land
Whether you inherited the property, moved out of state, or just want to be done with it—we’ll take a look and help you figure out the smartest way to sell. Sometimes that’s a cash deal. Sometimes it’s seller financing. Sometimes it’s a hybrid of both.
Reach out for a free offer here or email us direct at simplyacres@gmail.com. We’re real people looking to buy land in your area!
All the best for now,
Matthew & Kathleen
