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7 min read Jan 7, 2026

Why Builders Pay More: A Primer on Residual Land Value

SC
Stuart Chapin
Principal Broker & Land Analyst

Most landowners value their property based on "comps." Developers value it based on a "pro-forma." Understanding the difference is how you capture the full equity in your land.

The Math of Development

Residual Land Value (RLV) is the primary equation used by every sophisticated builder in the Pacific Northwest. It is not about what the neighbor sold for; it is about what the final product will sell for, minus every cost required to get there.

THE RLV EQUATION
Gross Development Value (GDV)
Construction Costs
Soft Costs & Fees
Developer Profit Margin

= RESIDUAL LAND VALUE

Why Technical Data Matters

A builder will always assume the worst-case scenario if the data is missing. If they don't know the exact sewer depth, they budget for a pump system. If they don't know the soil compaction, they budget for expensive footings.

Our role at Stake & Charter is to "Charter the Risk." By providing technical due diligence upfront, we remove the builder's need for contingency fluff, shifting those dollars directly back into your pocket.

Profit Compression

Builders typically target 15-20% pretax profit. We negotiate for lower risk-premiums.

Cost Certainty

Pre-vetted site data can swing a land offer by $50k-$200k in a developer's pro-forma.

Know Your Numbers

Don't leave your equity to a builder's guesswork. Request a technical pro-forma for your land.

Request Residual Value Audit