Land improvement calculator

Tree removal is often necessary for site prep or open land development. Expect costs from $300–$1,000 per acre depending on tree density. Tools include chainsaws and possibly a bulldozer. Hire local land clearing specialists via Thumbtack or Angi.

Brush clearing involves removing shrubs, overgrowth, and small trees. Typical cost is $100–$400 per acre. A brush mower or skid steer is common. Look for brush clearing pros from craigslist or rent the equipment 

Fencing raw land improves security and defines boundaries. Prices vary by material (barbed wire, wood, vinyl), but generally run $800–$1,200 per acre. Basic supplies: posts, wire/nails, cement. Fence companies can be found through HomeAdvisor or local contractors. You must first survey your land.

Land grading levels out uneven terrain for building, drainage, or roads. Costs usually run from $800 to $1,500 per acre. A skid steer or dozer is required. Hire excavating services locally or through civil engineering firms.

Water runoff control helps prevent erosion and flooding by shaping land or installing diversion structures. Costs range from $800 to $2,000 as a one-time fee. Supplies may include gravel, drainage pipes, or barriers. Look for stormwater or drainage contractors in your county.

Drilling a well is key for water access on rural land. Expect to pay between $2,000 and $6,000 depending on depth. Supplies include a pump and casing. Use licensed well drillers found through your state’s water resources department.

Installing a septic system allows off-grid sewage management. Costs are typically $3,000–$6,000. You’ll need tanks, drain field pipe, and permitting. Hire certified septic installers approved by your county health department.

Connecting city electricity requires running lines and possibly installing a meter. Fees vary ($2,500–$7,000). Supplies include conduit and poles. Start by contacting the local utility provider. In some cases the city does it free or has future plans to.

Off-grid solar lets you generate your own electricity. Expect costs of $6,000–$15,000 depending on size. You’ll need panels, inverter, batteries. Solar contractors or kit suppliers like Renogy or Tesla are options.

Before building, many areas require permits. Fees average $500–$2,000. The application process varies by city. Visit your county building department. It can be very costly to do anything without getting permits, in some cases they will give you fines till you remove what you did, even if done right. 

Installing a tiny home can cost $10,000–$30,000 including site prep. Needed: foundation pad, hookups, and transportation. Search tiny home dealers or prefab home builders near you. In most cases they will deliver and install the tiny home. This will most likely change your land off vacant status and into real estate. Values can go way up doing this as you’re now selling a true place to move into.

RV hookups give power, water, and sewer to trailers. Costs vary from $2,000–$5,000. You’ll need electrical conduit, a water line, and septic tie-in. Hire RV service pros or licensed plumbers and electricians. This also adds significant value, there is no time wasted for a buyer. They will pay a lot more to have a move on ready spot. 

Creating a dirt road allows access from the main street. Costs range from $3,000–$10,000 depending on length. Materials include gravel and base rock. Hire local grading companies or contractors with excavation experience. In some cases you can rent a dozer and do it yourself. And other just drive over it many times to create a path. You have cheap options with this one. But a nice road adds a lot to the value.  

Upgrading land for camping may include a firepit, leveling, and toilet setup. Costs typically fall between $500–$2,000. Use gravel, metal ring, and compost toilet kits. DIY or hire general handymen or land prep specialists. If you design the camping spot in a unique and fun way, you can list your land on HipCamp and make rental income.