Buying vacant land is one of the most exciting opportunities in real estate—especially in a diverse and fast-growing area like Brevard County, Florida. Whether you’re dreaming of building a custom home, investing in future development, or creating a private retreat, understanding how land purchases work on the Space Coast can help you make smarter decisions.

At Ocean To River Properties, we help buyers navigate everything from zoning and utilities to flood zones and construction planning. Here’s what you need to know before buying land in Brevard County.

1. Why Buy Land in Brevard County?

Brevard County offers some of Florida’s most attractive opportunities for vacant land buyers:

• Diverse options: From waterfront lots in Merritt Island and Cocoa Beach to large rural parcels in Palm Bay, Mims, or Canaveral Groves.

• Growing demand: Tech and aerospace jobs continue to expand, bringing strong long-term population growth.

• Lower entry price: Raw land prices are often more affordable than developed residential properties.

• Customization: Build the home you want—from modern coastal designs to spacious ranch-style properties.

If you want to control your layout, your finishes, and your lifestyle, buying land is the ultimate path to personalization.

2. Types of Land Available in Brevard County

Understanding the different lot options will help you narrow your search:

• Residential Lots

Ready-to-build lots located in established neighborhoods. These often have access to utilities, paved roads, and established zoning.

• Rural/Acreage Parcels

Found in areas like Mims, Palm Bay, Grant-Valkaria, and Canaveral Groves. Ideal for buyers who want privacy, land for animals, or agricultural options.

• Waterfront Land

Premium lots on the Indian River, Banana River, or Atlantic Ocean. These offer incredible lifestyle potential but require additional due diligence (erosion, permits, insurance).

• Undeveloped Land

Raw, unimproved parcels that may lack roads, utilities, or clear zoning. These can appreciate well but require expert guidance.

At Ocean To River Properties, we help you determine which type fits your lifestyle and budget.

3. Key Factors to Consider Before Purchasing Land

Buying land has different challenges compared to purchasing a move-in-ready home. Always evaluate the following:

• Zoning & Land Use

Check if the property is zoned residential, agricultural, mixed-use, or conservation. Zoning determines what you can and cannot build.

• Utilities & Infrastructure

Does the land have access to:

• City water or well?

• Septic or sewer?

• Electrical access?

• Paved roads?

Utility installation can significantly affect total cost.

• Soil Quality & Environmental Conditions

A soil test can reveal:

• Load-bearing capacity

• Flood risk

• Drainage issues

• Environmental restrictions (e.g., wetlands)

Coastal and riverside lots may require additional permits.

• Flood Zones & Insurance

Brevard County includes areas prone to flooding, especially near the coast and riverfront. Checking FEMA flood maps is essential.

• Property Setbacks & Building Codes

Local building codes determine:

• Minimum lot size

• Home footprint

• Distance from property lines

• Height restrictions

Every city and municipality has unique regulations.

4. Financing Your Land Purchase

Financing land is different from financing a home:

• Cash Purchases

Most land buyers choose cash to avoid higher interest rates or limited lender options.

• Land Loans

These require:

• Higher down payments (20–40%)

• Shorter loan terms

• Higher interest rates

• Construction-to-Permanent Loans

If you plan to build soon, a combined construction + mortgage loan is often the best option.

Pro Tip: Get pre-approved early—land lending requirements vary widely.

5. Costs to Expect When Building Your Home

Building on vacant land includes additional expenses beyond construction:

• Land clearing

• Grading and fill dirt

• Utilities installation

• Impact fees

• Permits

• Surveys

• Architectural plans

Working with trusted local builders can ensure you understand these costs upfront.

6. Best Areas in Brevard County to Buy Land

• Cocoa & Cocoa West

Affordable land with strong long-term appreciation potential.

• Palm Bay

Massive inventory of residential lots—ideal for first-time land buyers.

• Merritt Island

Premium waterfront lots and larger private parcels.

• Grant-Valkaria & Mims

Rural acreage for custom builds, agricultural use, or privacy.

• Cocoa Beach & Satellite Beach

Limited availability but high value for oceanfront or riverfront lots.

Ocean To River Properties tracks off-market lots and new opportunities to help you find the right parcel at the right price.

7. Why Work With Ocean To River Properties?

Buying land is a specialized process—and our Space Coast team knows exactly what to look for. We help you:

• Evaluate zoning, flood zones, environmental issues

• Understand buildability and long-term value

• Connect with reputable local builders and surveyors

• Avoid costly mistakes on raw or undeveloped land

• Negotiate the best possible deal

Whether you're dreaming of a quiet retreat or a custom coastal home, we help you bring your vision to life—from oceanfront lots to sprawling rural acreage.

Buying land in Brevard County gives you the freedom to build the home you’ve always imagined—but it requires careful planning and expert guidance. With diverse landscapes, strong appreciation potential, and growing demand, the Space Coast is one of Florida’s most promising places to invest in land.

Ready to explore vacant land opportunities?
Contact Ocean To River Properties today, and let’s find the perfect parcel for your future home.