Gold Claim Buyer's Checklist

Your comprehensive guide to evaluating and purchasing a gold mining claim

Prospector examining a gold mining claim

The Ultimate Gold Claim Buyer's Checklist

Purchasing a gold mining claim is a significant investment that requires careful evaluation. This comprehensive checklist will guide you through the essential factors to consider before finalizing your purchase. Use it to ensure you're making an informed decision and getting the best value for your investment.

How to Use This Checklist

Work through each section methodically, checking off items as you complete them. For significant investments, we recommend completing every item. For smaller recreational claims, you may prioritize the sections most relevant to your needs.

Download the printable PDF version to take with you when visiting potential claims or meeting with sellers.

Section 1: Claim Documentation

Original location notice and amendments (if any)

BLM serial number and current status

Proof of annual maintenance fee payments (last 3 years)

County recording documents

Maps showing claim boundaries and location

GPS coordinates of claim corners

Documentation of any previous transfers or ownership changes

Section 2: Legal Verification

Verified claim status with BLM LR2000 database

Checked county records for proper recording

Verified no overlapping claims exist

Confirmed seller is the legal owner of record

Checked for any liens or encumbrances on the claim

Verified claim is not within withdrawn or restricted areas

Section 3: Physical Inspection

Visited the claim in person

Located and verified all corner monuments

Assessed access routes and their condition

Verified water availability (seasonal or year-round)

Identified suitable camping or operating areas

Checked for hazards (abandoned mines, unstable ground, etc.)

Assessed terrain for mining suitability

Clear river with rocks and surrounding forest - ideal for placer mining

Section 4: Gold Potential Assessment

Conducted test panning/sampling (with permission)

Reviewed seller's production records (if available)

Researched historical production in the area

Identified favorable gold trapping features (bedrock, bends, etc.)

Assessed type of gold typically found (fine, flakes, nuggets)

Evaluated potential for different mining methods

Section 5: Regulatory Considerations

Identified any special management area restrictions

Checked county-specific mining regulations

Verified water use restrictions or requirements

Researched seasonal restrictions (fire season, wildlife, etc.)

Identified any required permits for your planned activities

Section 6: Practical Considerations

Distance from your home location

Cell phone coverage at the claim

Proximity to services (gas, supplies, medical)

Seasonal accessibility (winter closures, etc.)

Security considerations

Section 7: Financial Evaluation

Compared price to similar claims in the area

Calculated ongoing maintenance costs (annual fees)

Estimated equipment needs and costs

Considered travel expenses to/from the claim

Assessed potential return on investment

Section 8: Transfer Process

Prepared quitclaim deed

Arranged secure payment method

Prepared to file transfer with county recorder

Prepared to file transfer with BLM (within 60 days)

Budgeted for transfer fees (county and BLM)

Red Flags Checklist

Be cautious if you encounter any of these warning signs:

Seller refuses to provide BLM serial number
Documentation is incomplete or inconsistent
Unusually low price compared to similar claims
Seller won't allow physical inspection
Extraordinary claims about gold recovery without proof
Pressure to complete the sale quickly

Final Decision Checklist

All legal verification complete and satisfactory

Physical inspection confirms claim meets my needs

Gold potential aligns with my expectations

Regulatory environment allows my planned activities

Price and ongoing costs fit my budget

No red flags identified

Notes and Observations

Download Printable Checklist

Why Use This Checklist?

Avoid costly mistakes and legal issues
Ensure you're getting what you pay for
Compare claims objectively
Document your due diligence
Make confident, informed decisions

Related Resources

How to Buy a Gold Mining Claim in California
Complete step-by-step guide to purchasing a claim
How to Verify a Mining Claim Before You Buy
Detailed verification process to avoid pitfalls
What Is a Placer Mining Claim?
Understanding the basics of placer mining claims

Additional Downloads

Sample Quitclaim Deed
Template for claim transfer documentation
BLM Transfer Form
Required form for BLM claim transfer
Gold Claim ROI Calculator
Spreadsheet to estimate potential returns

Need Professional Help?

For significant investments, consider working with professionals who specialize in mining claim transactions.

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