The low median age of the population in Illinois (detail) Illinois is a diverse state with areas of both cities and countryside. Whether you’re dreaming of a place to plant your roots, invest in a property, or just get away from the hustle and bustle of urban living, purchasing land in Illinois can be a smart and rewarding decision. This Midwestern state can be affordable, picturesque and attract investment interest, all at the same time.
Here’s a closer look at the best places to buy land in Illinois and an expert’s advice for anyone planning to build a custom home, especially veterans who are shopping for VA loan benefits.
1. Southern Illinois – Natural Beauty and Affordable Land
Southern Illinois (especially around the Shawnee National Forest area) tends to have some rolling hills, rock formations and is very green. There’s lots of land available at reasonable prices in counties like Jackson, Williamson and Union. Those rural settings offer such a peaceful and serene setting that aren’t like they were in a nature-inspired way.
This land is perfect for those looking for privacy, hunting land or even living off grid. Southern Illinois is ideal for people looking to purchase large numbers of acres with a relatively low cost per acre.
2. McHenry County – Close to Chicago with a Country Feel
(McHenry County Located an hour northwest of Chicago, McHenry County is ideal for those seeking the convenience of the city and a more relaxed lifestyle. Northeastern Illinois’ Woodstock and Harvard provide large tracts of land that can be used for homes and farming.
The county has experienced a consistent rise in growth while still retaining a small-town appeal. Because utilities are already in place and roads are already paved, the McHenry subdivision is an ideal area if you are dreaming of a custom home.
3. Jo Daviess County – Scenic and Historic
In the northwestern corner of the state, Jo Daviess County is little known outside Illinois an expanse of rolling hills dotted with charming little towns like Galena. The region is a favorite for tourist and retirees Continue reading Collapse
If you’re interested in purchasing land with beautiful views and perhaps the ability to build a vacation or retirement home, Jo Daviess County, in northwestern Illinois, is one of the places to consider. The real estate here is in just as high of demand, and land is still a smart purchase.
4. Kendall County – Rapid Growth and Development
Kendall County is one of the fastest-developing areas in Illinois and what developers, and home buyers, are looking for in an area known for eye-catching new homes. A five-bedroom house Southwest of Chicago, it combines the suburban convenience with the rural peace.
With residential construction on the rise, Kendall County is a popular place to purchase land for people who want to build a home or invest in real estate. The area is a solid spot for families, with school districts and shopping centers on the rise.
5. Peoria County – Central Illinois Potential
Your search for land available in Peoria County and conveniently located along the Illinois River is over. The county has an appealing mix of urban and rural properties, making it conducive to a range of land uses, from home construction to recreation.
Peoria has a thriving community, health facilities, and local industries to enjoy and keep your life in balance. Land prices are reasonable, and there’s plenty of space for expansion and growth.
6. Kane County – Urban-Rural Balance
Kane County sits just to the west of Chicago and is where cities like Aurora and Elgin are located. It has vast swaths of land, from farms to suburbs. This makes it appealing to buyers who want to build custom homes but don’t want to go far from urban centers.
The Kane County area is consistently a popular choice for residential land and investment land lots thanks to the solid infrastructure and quality schools.
Tips for Buying Land and Building Your Custom Home
Land acquisition is only the beginning. For a lot of folks, particularly veterans, the next big question is: How do I find the right custom home builders near me?
Begin research into local builders who are experienced in your desired area. Consider online reviews, peruse past work and make sure to ask for references. A builder who knows local zoning laws and suited to the type of terrain you are building on will help you avoid surprises.
Also see if the builder is VA approved. If you plan to get a VA construction loan, your builders must be eligible for the same under the Department of Veterans Affairs. “These builders know that documentation and process and that will just naturally lead to a better experience for the vet.
VA Loans in Illinois: Support for Veterans
If you are a veteran wanting to use the VA Home Loan to build a home with no down payment, we tell you what the best option out there for you to accomplish this! These loans have competitive interest rates, lower closing costs and don’t require private mortgage insurance.
In Illinois, there are several lenders who focus on serving veterans looking to buy land and build homes from the ground up using VA construction loans. For starters, you’ll want to speak with a VA-approved lender who can talk you through eligibility requirements, including your Certificate of Eligibility (COE), credit score and income stability.
Final Thoughts
Illinois is a land of diversity and opportunity. Whether you covet acres of woods in the south, suburban ease near Chicago or a hilltop view in the northwest, the state has a diverse spread of options for purchasing land.
“As long as you have a great lifestyle and community experience and something that has a link to where you live, you can make a good, safe and guaranteed investment.” By honing in on the best region for your needs budget, lifestyle, work or school you can make a wise investment that will hold its value. And if you’re a vet, there are VA home loan options and VA-approved builders that can help turn that dream into a reality.
As in all things, do your research, partner with good people and only invest in a property where the long-term value of the land is high. The right piece of Illinois is something more than just place land it can be the basis of your future.