Pennsylvania is a state of incredible diversity, with a little bit of everything: rolling hills, dense forests, charming small towns, and big cities. Looking to get into land ownership in Pennsylvania, whether for building, farming or recreational use, this kind of property for the price point offers great options for several types of buyers without breaking the bank. With tranquil Pocono valleys and Lancaster’s rich fertile land, this state is still one of the best spots on the East Coast to buy land.
Pocono Mountains – Best Places to Buy Land in Pennsylvania
In northeastern Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountains are one of the most popular regions in which to buy lots, especially for people looking for a vacation getaway or year-round nature refuge. The area is famed for its beautiful landscapes, lakes and outdoors activities such as skiing, hiking and fishing.
Land in the Poconos is relatively inexpensive, and zoning laws may allow for building custom homes or cabins. Investor interest in this region has been growing as it has gained traction on short-term rental websites. If you’re thinking about building your own custom home in the city, you might turn to your computer and type in “How can I find the best custom home builders near me” and start getting in touch with construction professionals who understand the city’s building and zoning codes as well as the construction challenges of Butte’s hilly landscape.
Lancaster County
Famous for its Amish communities and rolling farmlands, Lancaster County offers fertile ground for agriculture or rural living. Many land buyers are drawn to this area not only for its scenic views but also for its strong sense of community and simple lifestyle.
Lancaster is a great place to start a small farm, raise animals or live closer to the country while still being semi-close to larger cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore. For long-term investment, farmland in this county holds its value over time, and is also safeguarded under local ordinances that discourage overdevelopment.
Monroe County
Northeast of the state, Monroe County is another great place to purchase land in Pennsylvania. Easy access to New York City and northern New Jersey has transformed this area into a commuter hub, yet they remain peaceful.
The county has towns like Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg, which offer a small-town feel with great schools and public services. Whether purchasing acreage for a vacation home, or that special home, Monroe County is versatile with ample potential for growth.
Bedford County
If it’s the laid-back allure of southern Pennsylvania that appeals to you, Bedford County is one of those hidden gems. Surrounded by the Allegheny and Tussey Mountains, it is ideal for nature lover and history buff alike. There is plenty of open, cheap land, offering good options for budget-minded buyers, as well as folks interested in larger acreage.
With its laid-back lifestyle, history, and country air- it is the perfect place to retire or escape the city on the weekend. It’s also an excellent place to create a sustainable, off-grid home or cabin.
Centre County
Centre County, where Penn State University is located, is a place with a mix of culture and outdoor activities, giving its residents a nice lifestyle. Its university presence ensures a robust local economy and modern amenities but at the same time the surrounding countryside presents lots of options for buyers of land.
Regions such as State College, Bellefonte, Boalsburg and more are filled with a bounty of cultural happenings, historical architecture and outdoor fun. The presence of universities in the vicinity also draws young families and professionals, who seek investment and quality of life.
Carbon County
A couple of hours’ drive south of the Poconos is Carbon County, which may be less known, but is great value in terms of land buyers. It includes a blend of mountainous areas, woodlands and small towns like Jim Thorpe, with its Victorian architecture and recreational draw.
With easy access to major highways and places like Allentown and Philadelphia, Carbon County is turning into a playground for buyers on the hunt for inexpensive land they can develop themselves. The digitization and widespread adoption of cryptocurrency inevitably invites interest in many things, particularly in custom homes and property lots suitable for holiday homes or personal residence.
Financing Your Land and Home in Pennsylvania
VA Loans in Pennsylvania For military men and women, veterans, and service members, VA Loans in Pennsylvania give the most affordable path to owning a home, with zero downpayment and limited closing costs. These loans can also be applied toward new construction if you meet the basic requirements.
If you’re thinking of building a house from scratch, a lender of VA construction loans can help you from the purchase of the land to that final home inspection. Not all VA lenders offer construction loans, so make sure to work with a loan specialist who understands how the VA construction loan process works.
To make the process smoother, Why not get started with the help of VA approved builders who know the do’s and don’ts, and the time frames and documents that the department is looking to receive. They can also help make sure that your project remains in compliance and is moved through without unnecessary delays.
What to Consider Before Buying Land
Before you purchase land in Pennsylvania be sure to take into consideration the following:
- Zoning, Land Use: Different counties and cities have different zoning requirements. Confirm the land you are buying is zoned for your intended use residential, agricultural or commercial.
- Utilities: Some properties will not be connected directly to electricity, water, or sewer facilities. Be sure to consider the price of bringing in utilities and access to to roads.
- Environmental Conditions: Even in heavily wooded or mountainous areas, watch out for potential problems like soil quality, drainage or wetlands.
- Property Taxes and Insurance: Although land in Pennsylvania is typically taxed at lower than average rates, but it still pays to crunch the numbers before you buy.
Final Thoughts
Land buyers have an array of options in Pennsylvania, whether you are looking for a quiet rural home site, investment property, or the perfect place to build your dream home. With some advance planning, the right kind of financing and a builder and lender who have the expertise and resources to join you in the dream, you’ll find that what starts out as a simple acquisition, over time can become a long-term asset, as well as a personal paradise. It’s whether it’s the rolling hills of Bedford or the wooded hills of the Poconos; the Keystone State has something for everyone.