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    Land & Acreage

    Selling Inherited Land in Temple & Bell County (2025 Guide)

    Tony Dabneyβ€’

    Temple's 950-acre industrial annexation is changing land values. Learn about ag exemption rollback taxes, why land takes 6-12 months to sell, and how to get cash quickly.

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    Inheriting land in Bell Countyβ€”whether it's a few acres near Lake Belton or a lot in growing Templeβ€”is a great asset, but it's harder to liquidate than a house. With Temple's industrial boom (including the recent 950-acre annexation for industrial use), land values are shifting.

    Temple's Industrial Boom

    Temple is experiencing unprecedented growth. The city's recent annexation of 950 acres specifically for industrial development signals major changes ahead.

    πŸ“ˆ Temple Growth Indicators (2025)

    • β€’ 950 acres annexed for industrial use
    • β€’ Amazon, FedEx, and Walmart distribution centers expanding
    • β€’ I-35 corridor development accelerating
    • β€’ Population growth: 3.2% annually

    The "Ag Exemption" Surprise

    Many inherited properties in Bell County have agricultural exemptions that keep property taxes artificially low. But there's a catch.

    ⚠️ Rollback Tax Warning

    If the land has an agricultural exemption and you sell to a developer or someone who changes the use, the county can trigger Rollback Taxes.

    • You'll owe 3-5 years of full taxes (retroactively)
    • Plus 7% interest per year
    • On a 10-acre plot: $15,000+ surprise at closing

    We know how to handle this. When we buy land, we analyze the tax status so there are no surprises.

    Why Land Sits Longer

    In the 2025 market, finding a retail buyer for raw land in Temple often takes 6 to 12 months.

    Financing Challenges

    • Banks require 20-50% down
    • Higher interest rates
    • Many lenders refuse raw land

    Due Diligence Costs

    • Surveys ($2k-$5k)
    • Soil tests ($1,500+)
    • Environmental assessments

    Zoning & Utilities

    • Is city water available?
    • Can you build what you want?
    • Deed restrictions?

    Types of Inherited Land in Bell County

    Land TypeTypical IssuesMarket Reality
    City Lots in Temple/BeltonCity liens for mowing, old utilitiesGood demand if cleared
    1-5 Acres Near Lake BeltonFlood zones, septic limitationsPopular but slow to sell
    10-50 Acres AgriculturalAg exemption rollback taxesLimited buyer pool
    Rural Acreage (50+)Access roads, mineral rights6-18 months typical

    Your Selling Options

    Option 1: List with a Realtor

    Timeline: 6-12+ months

    βœ“ Maximum market exposure
    βœ— 6-10% commission on land sales
    βœ— You pay for surveys and clearing

    Option 2: Sell to a Developer

    Timeline: 3-6 months

    βœ“ Potentially higher price
    βœ— Extensive due diligence period
    βœ— Deals often fall through

    Option 3: Cash Sale to Dabney Real Estate

    Timeline: 7-14 days

    βœ“ No survey fees
    βœ“ No realtor commissions
    βœ“ We pay closing costs
    βœ“ We handle ag exemption issues

    Turn That Inherited Land Into Cash

    Whether it's a vacant lot in Temple or acreage near Lake Belton, we buy inherited land throughout Bell County. No hassles, no surprises, just a fair cash offer.

    QWhat are rollback taxes on inherited land in Bell County?

    If inherited land has an agricultural exemption and you sell it for non-agricultural use, Bell County can charge 3-5 years of back taxes plus 7% interest. On 10 acres, this can exceed $15,000 at closing.

    QHow long does it take to sell land in Temple, TX in 2025?

    Raw land in Temple typically takes 6-12 months to sell traditionally due to limited financing options (banks require 20-50% down) and buyer demands for surveys and soil tests.

    QCan I sell inherited land in Bell County without a survey?

    Yes, cash buyers like Dabney Real Estate Group can purchase land without requiring a new survey, saving you $2,000-5,000 in upfront costs.

    QHow is Temple's 950-acre industrial annexation affecting land values?

    Temple's 950-acre annexation for industrial use is increasing demand for land near I-35 and distribution centers, but it's also creating complexity around zoning and best use determinations.

    Want a cash offer without showings?

    If selling fast is your priority, request a no-obligation offer and we can typically respond within 24 hours.

    Ready to Move Forward?

    We've helped dozens of Texas families through difficult property situations with compassion and fairness.