Editor’s Note: This is the 12th in a question-and-answer series with land real estate professionals — land agents, mortgage brokers, auctioneers, attorneys, timberland professionals and more. There’s a lot of information about the national real estate market out there, but it’s tough to find answers to your specific land real estate questions — until now. LANDTHINK believes that a lot of the stress of buying, selling, and owning land can be reduced or eliminated with some simple information from some of the best in the land industry.
Landbuyer Question:
I am interested in acquiring several tracts of land in Central Mississippi for hunting purposes. These properties currently belong to multiple owners, as they are family parcels that have been passed down through several generations. I currently own a portion of one tract and I’m looking to expand my access and ownership.
The other landowners are distant relatives whom I have never met. Most of them reside out of state and haven’t lived in the area for over 35 years. Since the land has limited access and lacks potential for residential, commercial, or industrial development, hunting remains its only practical use. Since these owners do not use the property and appear to have little interest in it, I would like to reach out to them.
I have acquired all of their addresses and phone numbers, and I’d like to start inquiring with the other landowners about selling their portions to me. Would it be better to hire a land agent to approach the owners on my behalf? Any advice or tactics on reaching out to them and approaching this topic would be greatly appreciated.
Jack Gabriel, Land Broker, Accredited Land Consultant (ALC), Southeastern Land Group
Given your situation, I believe combining both approaches has value.
Because you are already a partial owner and a distant family member, you have an advantage most buyers lack. You’ve taken the initiative to identify the other owners and gather contact information, which is often one of the most difficult parts of acquiring inherited family land. A personal introduction from a fellow family member may be the best way to open the door and begin the conversation.
I would recommend starting with a simple, respectful letter or phone call introducing yourself, explaining your connection to the property, and expressing your interest in learning whether they have any long-term plans for their ownership interest. At this stage, the goal is not necessarily to negotiate a purchase but rather to establish communication and gauge their level of interest.
Once that initial contact has been made, an experienced land agent can become an invaluable resource. Family-owned land passed through multiple generations often involves challenges that many buyers do not anticipate. Ownership interests may be divided among numerous heirs, title issues may exist, access questions can arise, and there may be concerns involving timber rights, mineral rights, probate matters, or undivided interests. These are areas where a land agent’s experience can help prevent costly mistakes and keep the process moving forward.
A land agent can also serve as a professional intermediary once discussions become more serious. In many cases, family members are more comfortable having a neutral third party assist with property valuations, purchase offers, negotiations, due diligence, and transaction management. This can help preserve family relationships while ensuring all parties receive accurate information throughout the process.
In my experience, the most successful acquisitions of inherited family land often begin with a relationship and end with professional guidance. Your family connection may help create opportunities that would not otherwise exist, while a knowledgeable land agent can help navigate the complexities of the transaction from contract to closing.
Ultimately, buying inherited family land is rarely just about the land itself. It’s about understanding the people, history, and ownership structure behind it. Combining a personal approach with professional expertise often provides the best path toward a successful outcome.
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