Buying crown land in America

 # Buying Crown Land in America: A Guide

In the United States, Crown land is referred to as public land, which is managed by various federal agencies such as the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the National Park Service, and the U.S. Forest Service. Buying Crown land in America involves purchasing public land from these agencies through auctions, direct sales, or competitive bidding processes.

*Types of Public Lands Available for Sale*

Public lands available for sale can be categorized into¹ ²:

- *Undeveloped land*: Tracts of land with no improvements, often part of the original Public Domain established during the western expansion of the United States.

- *Real property*: Developed land with buildings, usually acquired by the Federal Government for a specific purpose.

- *Scattered or isolated tracts*: Lands that are difficult or uneconomic to manage, often sold to adjacent landowners.

*Eligibility and Restrictions*

To buy public land, you must be a:

- U.S. citizen: Federal law requires that public land be sold only to U.S. citizens or corporations subject to Federal or state laws.

- *Comply with land-use regulations*: Public lands are subject to various regulations, including zoning ordinances, environmental laws, and access restrictions.

*How to Buy Public Land*

The process of buying public land involves³:

- *Finding available land*: Contact the BLM state office or visit their website to find public lands available for sale.

- *Bidding process*: Sales can be conducted through oral bid, sealed bid, or a combination of both.

- *Payment terms*: A specified minimum percentage of the full price is required with each bid, and the balance must be paid in full within a set period.

*Costs and Considerations*

When buying public land, consider the following costs and factors:

- *Fair market value*: The BLM determines the fair market value of each parcel, and no parcel can be sold for less than this value.

- *Access and utilities*: Check if the land has legal access and if utilities such as water, power, and sewer service are available.

- *Zoning and land-use regulations*: Ensure compliance with local zoning ordinances and land-use regulations.

*Agencies Involved in Public Land Sales*

Several federal agencies are involved in public land sales, including:

- *Bureau of Land Management (BLM)*: Manages public lands and sells them through auctions or direct sales.

- *General Services Administration (GSA)*: Sells real property, including undeveloped land, office buildings, and single-family homes.

- U.S. Department of Agriculture: Sells homes, farms, and ranches through auctions or offers.

In conclusion, buying Crown land in America requires understanding the types of public lands available, eligibility requirements, and the sales process. It's essential to research and comply with regulations, consider costs and access, and work with the relevant federal agencies to successfully purchase public land.