Lesson 17: Land Listing Platforms

Every property needs professionals at some stage — surveys, soil tests, clearing, grading, septic, or utilities. The catch? Prices for the same exact service can swing by hundreds — even thousands — of dollars.

👉 The way you search, filter, and compare quotes can make or break your bottom line. Just like pricing your land correctly, hiring the right professionals with the right process keeps your costs in line.

Step 1: Start With the County List

For reports, tests, and inspections:

Call, email or check the county office website for a list of licensed providers.
Email or text everyone on that list with a short request (service, property location, timeframe).
Use replies as a filter: fast, clear communicators usually make the best hires.
Then follow up by phone with anyone who didn't respond. This way you avoid wasting time chasing dead ends.

Step 2: Where to Find Reliable Labor Pros

For physical jobs (clearing, septic, grading, tree removal, etc.), don't risk unlicensed nobodies. Stick to vetted platforms:

Thumbtack – Quick bids from locals.
Yelp – Reviews + job photos.
Google Maps Business Search – Search "[service] near me" with 4–5 star companies.
HomeAdvisor / Angi – Vetted contractor directory.
Nextdoor & Local Facebook Groups – Good for local recommendations.
County planning/permitting office – They often know who's reliable.

Step 3: Get at Least 5 Estimates

Yes, it's a hassle. But quotes can vary by hundreds of percent.

Example:

As I had mentioned above, I had soil test quotes from $300 to $2,000. The first response was $1,500 — which was depressing. But after pushing for more bids, I got the exact same test done for $300.

👉 That's why you never settle for the first quote.

Step 4: Protect Yourself After Hiring

Never pay 100% upfront.

A legitimate pro will never ask for full payment before showing up.
Only pay a deposit when they're onsite.
For remote landowners: ask them to snap a picture of their crew/equipment at your property before sending the deposit.
This proves they're real and ready to work.

Use contracts & receipts.

Even for small jobs, ask for a simple work order or email confirmation of scope, price, and timeline.

Pay in stages for larger jobs.

Example: 30% deposit onsite, 40% at midway milestone, 30% after completion.

Preferred payment methods:

Credit card, PayPal, or check (when possible) → gives you dispute protection.
Avoid Venmo, Zelle, or cash unless you personally know the contractor or are doing small milestone payments.

Extra Tips for Avoiding Rip-Offs

Check license & insurance. Most counties let you verify online.
Google their business name + "scam" or "complaints."
Ask for 2–3 references. Call them — legit pros won't hesitate.
Watch for excuses. If they can't give a clear start date, or keep raising the price before starting, move on.
Trust red flags. If communication feels shady, don't rationalize it — just keep looking.

Key Takeaway

Start with the county list for official providers.
Use vetted platforms for labor jobs.
Always get 5+ estimates.
Once hired, never pay in full upfront.
Legit contractors will have no problem sending proof they're onsite before taking a deposit.

👉 These steps may feel like extra work, but they'll save you hundreds to thousands of dollars and protect your land from being left half-finished — or worse, ripped off.

Lesson 17 of 37