To successfully buy dirt in Payson, Pine, or Strawberry, you need a “Dream Team.”
Over the years, I’ve curated a list of the sharpest local experts who keep my clients safe. If you are thinking of building your mountain dream home, these are the first 5 phone calls you need to make.
1. The Legal Guardian: Pioneer Title Agency (Payson Branch)
Why you need them: In the city, title work is routine. In the mountains, it’s an investigation. You need a title officer who knows the difference between a “recorded easement” and “Old Man Jenkins’ handshake deal from 1982.”
The Mountain Bear Note: I love working with the local team at Pioneer because they know the history of these parcels. When we open escrow on raw land, they are the ones hunting for those Affidavits of Disclosure (ARS § 33-422) we talked about.
- Contact: Pioneer Title Agency, Payson
- Location: 421 S Beeline Hwy, Payson, AZ
2. The Line Drawers: Northstar Surveying
Why you need them: “I think the property line is by that big oak tree.” Famous last words. In Rim Country, fences are often “suggestions,” not legal boundaries. Before you close on a piece of land, you need a Registered Land Surveyor to flag the corners. The Mountain Bear Note: Northstar has been surveying Arizona since the early 90s. They know our terrain. I always recommend getting a Record of Survey so you don’t accidentally build your garage on your neighbor’s land (yes, I’ve seen it happen!).
- Who to ask for: The local team knows the topography better than anyone.
3. The Rule Keepers: Gila County Community Development
Why you need them: Can you put a manufactured home on that lot? Can you have horses? What are the setbacks? Don’t guess. The Gila County Planning & Zoning department holds the keys to what you can and cannot do. The Mountain Bear Note: Before we write an offer, we often call the Payson Office (928-474-9276) to verify the zoning code. If the listing says “Horse Property” but the county map says “Residential High Density,” we have a problem. Go to the source.
- Web Resource: Gila County Community Development
4. The Water Wizards: KP Ventures (Well Drilling & Pump Service)
Why you need them: If your land doesn’t have city water, you are in the well business. You need to know two things: How deep do I have to drill? and How fast does the water come out (GPM)? The Mountain Bear Note: If you are buying a property with an existing well, I recommend a comprehensive well inspection and flow test. KP Ventures is a heavyweight in the state for drilling and pump service. They understand the “Payson Pressure” issues we face at 5,000 feet elevation.
5. The Guide: Brian Inman (Mountain Bear Real Estate Agent)
Why you need me: The surveyor marks the lines, the county sets the rules, and the title company checks the history. But who puts it all together? My job is to be the Quarterback of this entire team. I ensure the surveyor talks to the title officer, and the well report gets to the lender on time. The Mountain Bear Promise: I don’t just find you the land; I help you understand exactly what you are buying. Whether it’s navigating ARS § 33-422 or finding the best spot for a septic tank, I’m here to make sure your mountain dream doesn’t turn into a rocky nightmare.
Ready to start your land search in Payson? Don’t go it alone. Call Brian Inman, your high-level instructor for Arizona Real Estate, and let’s get this team working for you.