If you have decided to sell a piece of land (with or without a home on it) but believe the property would be suitable for a brand new duplex or entire block of units, it may be worth targeting developers instead of standard residential buyers.

With home availability low in Queensland and prices rising steadily, developers are looking to this part of the world for quality properties that have the potential to deliver healthy returns as a result of a residential project.

As a property owner, understanding what developers want and making your property more attractive can increase your chances of achieving an outstanding price when you sell.

Here are some facts to keep in mind if you want to attract Queensland property developers to buy your land.

1. Location matters

The age-old adage 'location, location, location' holds immense weight in the property development sector. Developers prioritise properties in sought-after locations, particularly those with good transport links, proximity to amenities like schools, shopping centres, and hospitals, and areas showing signs of growth.

In Queensland, regions undergoing urban development or renewal, such as parts of Brisbane or the Gold Coast, are particularly appealing, especially with the 2032 Olympics on the horizon. If your property is in such a location, speak to your real estate agent about its development potential.

Even if your property isn't in a high-growth area, understanding local development plans can help. Researching and identifying any upcoming infrastructure projects, such as new roads, public transport upgrades, or planned community facilities can also boost your property's attractiveness to Queensland property developers looking for new projects.

2. Zoning can make or break your deal

Zoning is a critical factor that influences a developer's interest in your property. Zoning laws vary between council jurisdictions and dictate how a piece of land can be used and what kind of development will be approved. Larger blocks in areas zoned for higher density, mixed-use developments or dual occupancy residences are particularly attractive to developers as they offer greater flexibility and the potential for higher returns.

Before you list your property for sale, do some research and check with your local council to understand the current zoning and whether there are any plans for rezoning in the area. If your property is not currently zoned for high-density development, but there are indications of future changes, this could still be a strong selling point. Consult with a town planner to find out what’s possible so you can present potential buyers with a list of development options.

3. Do What You Can to Make Life Easier

Queensland property developers are always on the lookout for properties with significant development potential and they want to do as little work as possible to achieve their goal. If you have a larger property and can clear some trees before you list it for sale, for example, this may be helpful to move the sale along. Of course, you should make sure you’re not breaking local regulations by doing so.

To add to this, any reports you can provide to make the developer’s decision easier will help. For example, if you can share reports about the demographics of the area or share some preliminary feasibility studies related to the property, the developer won’t have to do as much of their own research.

Another way to help could be by providing details of recently completed projects in the area. Your real estate agent or town planner may be able to help you find examples.

4. Think About Utilities

Infrastructure is another critical element that can either attract or deter a developer. Queensland property developers prefer sites where they can start building with minimal additional costs. Properties that are already connected to essential services such as water, electricity and gas will be at the top of their list.

If your property is lacking in essential services or if the existing infrastructure is outdated, it may be worth investing in upgrades before you put it on the market. While these upgrades require an initial investment, they can result in a much higher sale price, making them worthwhile in the long run.

5. Consider Your Target Audience

Finally, the presentation of your property can make a significant difference in attracting developer interest. A well-maintained property creates a positive first impression and signals to developers that the site has been cared for. This can be as simple as cleaning and decluttering the property and ensuring the grounds are tidy.

High-quality photographs and detailed property descriptions that highlight the site's strengths can also be powerful tools in your marketing arsenal so speak to your agent about your strategy in this area.

Understanding what developers are looking for and making strategic enhancements to your property can set you on the path to a successful sale for a top price. Before you sell, however, you need a quality contract that protects your best interests. This is where your property lawyer from NPR Law comes in. Talk to us about preparing a contract so you can enter the sale process with confidence and achieve the best possible outcome.