Donate Property
Learn how NC State reviews and coordinates gifts of land, buildings and other real property
Real property gifts to NC State require review by university advancement, gift planning and real estate professionals. University Real Estate and Development helps evaluate donated real property and coordinate the real estate review process when a proposed gift involves land, buildings, farms, forests or other real property.
Most real property gifts begin through a college, unit advancement officer or the Office of Gift Planning. University Real Estate and Development works with those partners to determine whether the property gift aligns with university requirements and how it should be handled.
Types of Real Property Gifts
Gifts for Sale
Some donors give real property with the expectation that the university or affiliated foundation will sell the property and direct the proceeds to support a college, program, scholarship, endowment or other university priority.
Gifts for University Use
In limited cases, donated property supports a university program, research activity, academic mission or operational need. These gifts require additional review to determine whether NC State should hold and use the property.
Before you begin
Donors and university partners should be prepared to discuss:
- The property location
- The type of property
- The donor’s intent
- Whether the property is intended for sale or university use
- Known environmental, access, title or use issues
- Existing leases, tenants, easements or restrictions
- Estimated property value, if known
- The NC State college, program or fund the gift would support
How the process works
- Start with Advancement or Gift Planning
Most real property gift conversations begin with a college advancement officer or the Office of Gift Planning.
- Real estate review
University Real Estate and Development helps review the property, identify real estate considerations and coordinate with the appropriate partners.
- Due diligence
The review process looks at ownership, title, environmental conditions, access, restrictions, marketability, maintenance obligations and intended use.
- Decision and documentation
University partners determine whether the gift should move forward and what documentation is required.
- Sale or stewardship
If the property is accepted for sale, the proceeds support the intended university purpose. If the property is accepted for university use, additional stewardship, maintenance and program considerations apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should a donor contact first?
Most donors should begin with the NC State college, program or advancement contact connected to the intended gift, or with the Office of Gift Planning.
Does NC State accept all real property gifts?
No. Real property gifts require review before acceptance. The university must evaluate the property, donor intent, potential costs, risks, restrictions and alignment with university needs.
What is the difference between a gift for sale and a gift for university use?
A gift for sale is intended to generate proceeds for a university purpose. A gift for university use is intended to be held and used by NC State for a program, research, academic or operational purpose.
How long does the review process take?
Timelines vary based on the property, due diligence needs and required approvals. Real property gifts often require more review than other types of gifts.
Have questions about donating property?
Contact the Office of Gift Planning or University Real Estate and Development to discuss the right starting point.