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True, if you aren't aiming to be self sufficient, there is value there.
I guess I like too much control ;)

But not everyone will be able to be self sufficient. One may end up with a dozen plots that all have the same few traits and still need something from someone else. Even with a a lot of land it may still, on occasion depending on the market, be more efficient to just buy a thing instead of doing everything from start to finish. I believe there's always a benefit to getting a lot early, but I also, have faith the devs can work it out to ensure each individual plot adds value to the game for both the individual owner and the project at large. I kinda have to at this point because every time I've lost faith in the past an awesome update emerged and reminded me I'm just one of the idiots along for the ride. I've been here since just before the beta release went live and at this point I'm convinced these guys seem to know what they're doing.

Update: Also, keep in mind that even if you buy an entire region, there could very well be materials needed that are only available from another region you don’t own. God help us all if a jerk gets all “the spice islands”. 😁