15 Eye-Opening Facts About Lots For Sale In La Crosse Wi15 Eye-Opening Facts About Lots For Sale In La Crosse Wi
La Crosse Has A Surprisingly Active Real Estate Market
Many people may not realize that La Crosse, Wisconsin has a thriving real estate market with lots of options for those looking to purchase land or build a new home. Despite not being one of the major metros in the state, La Crosse offers great value and opportunity for buyers.
One of the main reasons the La Crosse real estate market is so active is the city’s affordability compared to other parts of the country. Land prices per acre are generally much lower than the national median price, allowing buyers to get more property for their money. This makes it appealing for developers as well as individual homeowners who want some extra elbow room.
In addition to affordable prices, La Crosse has seen steady job growth in recent years thanks to major local employers like Mayo Clinic and Trane Technologies. This economic stability and the city’s pleasant small town vibe along the Mississippi River have attracted professionals and families who are driving demand for new construction.
Home builders and developers have taken notice, launching new subdivisions on the outskirts of town to appeal to first-time homebuyers as well as those looking to upgrade. These new communities often feature amenities like pools, clubhouses, and walking trails to cater to modern lifestyles.
At the same time, there are opportunities to build on infill lots right in mature city neighborhoods. The city has focused on revitalizing its downtown area, with incentives for new mixed-use construction. Building on these vacant lots helps add density and vitality.
The diversity of inventory extends to home types too. La Crosse offers everything from riverside parcels with scenic bluff views to old farmstead acreages perfect for hobby farms to residential lots in established neighborhoods close to schools and parks.
With lending rates still near historic lows, demand is expected to remain strong in the short term. But even when rates increase, La Crosse real estate should continue to be attractive thanks to the value, quality of life, and economical cost of living offered in this scenic Wisconsin city.
Overall, buyers and builders shouldn’t overlook the surprising opportunities in the La Crosse real estate market. Affordable land prices, economic stability, and community growth make it a hidden gem for savvy investors and families alike.
Land Prices Are Much Lower Than National Average
One of the biggest advantages of buying land in La Crosse is that prices per acre are generally far below the national median and averages in most other Midwestern metro areas. This value proposition makes the market here very enticing.
According to the USDA, the average per-acre value of farm real estate in Wisconsin as of 2021 was around $4,700. That’s compared to over $9,000 nationwide. Even major cities in the region like Minneapolis and Chicago have median land prices of $15,000 per acre and up.
Part of the reason La Crosse land is so comparatively affordable is supply and demand. There is simply more available inventory here and less competition among buyers. Additionally, proximity to major interstate highways and large urban centers is a factor in pricing.
However, it’s important to note some variation within the local market. Riverfront parcels with scenic bluff views naturally command premium dollars per acre. The same goes for lots in desirable neighborhoods near schools and parks.
But in general, you get more bang for your buck buying land here compared to other areas. This allows developers to still make a nice profit constructing new subdivisions, even with lower home prices. And families can buy larger lots for hobby farms, yards, and gardens.
Lower land values also make spec building more feasible here. With decent rental demand, builders can construct homes then rent them out until the properties sell. The savings on the lot purchase makes this profitable even with slower sales.
For end-user homeowners, having a lower budget for just the lot provides flexibility in customizing or selecting more expensive house plans. And the overall cost is still often thousands less than in other cities.
While prices are always subject to market fluctuations, the fundamentals suggest La Crosse area land will remain a bargain for years to come. For builders and buyers alike, it’s a chance to stretch your dollar further when searching for that perfect lot to call home.
Great Diversity Of Lots, From Urban Infill To Rural Acreage
One of the best features of the La Crosse real estate market is the diversity of available lots and land parcels for sale. Buyers can find just about any setting and property type to match their needs and budget.
For those looking for a more urban lifestyle, La Crosse offers great opportunities for infill lots right in the city or in established neighborhoods. These allow you to build in locations close to downtown amenities and features like parks, schools, restaurants and shops.
Infill parcels tend to be more affordable and can be quite appealing for first-time homebuyers or young professionals. Being near the action is a major plus. And the lots allow creative use of space for smaller homes or multi-family housing.
On the other end of the spectrum are larger rural acreages in the towns and countryside surrounding La Crosse proper. These mini-farms allow room for horses, gardens, hobby farms or just privacy and seclusion.
Between the two extremes, you’ll find an array of traditional suburban subdivisions, some brand new and others decades old but well-maintained. These offer classic single-family lots perfect for growing families.
Riverside lots are also popular for those wanting waterfront living and scenic views. The La Crosse market features both bluff parcels overlooking the river as well as more secluded properties along back channels and sloughs.
Regardless of lifestyle or budget, the variety here makes it easy to find just what you’re looking for, from affordable infill lots for custom bungalows to sprawling acres for horse lovers. La Crosse offers opportunities across the spectrum.
Several Active Developers Offering New Subdivisions
One of the biggest advantages of buying land in La Crosse is that prices per acre are generally far below the national median and averages in most other Midwestern metro areas. This value proposition makes the market here very enticing.
According to the USDA, the average per-acre value of farm real estate in Wisconsin as of 2021 was around $4,700. That’s compared to over $9,000 nationwide. Even major cities in the region like Minneapolis and Chicago have median land prices of $15,000 per acre and up.
Part of the reason La Crosse land is so comparatively affordable is supply and demand. There is simply more available inventory here and less competition among buyers. Additionally, proximity to major interstate highways and large urban centers is a factor in pricing.
However, it’s important to note some variation within the local market. Riverfront parcels with scenic bluff views naturally command premium dollars per acre. The same goes for lots in desirable neighborhoods near schools and parks.
But in general, you get more bang for your buck buying land here compared to other areas. This allows developers to still make a nice profit constructing new subdivisions, even with lower home prices. And families can buy larger lots for hobby farms, yards, and gardens.
Lower land values also make spec building more feasible here. With decent rental demand, builders can construct homes then rent them out until the properties sell. The savings on the lot purchase makes this profitable even with slower sales.
For end-user homeowners, having a lower budget for just the lot provides flexibility in customizing or selecting more expensive house plans. And the overall cost is still often thousands less than in other cities.
While prices are always subject to market fluctuations, the fundamentals suggest La Crosse area land will remain a bargain for years to come. For builders and buyers alike, it’s a chance to stretch your dollar further when searching for that perfect lot to call home.
Great Diversity Of Lots, From Urban Infill To Rural Acreage
One of the best features of the La Crosse real estate market is the diversity of available lots and land parcels for sale. Buyers can find just about any setting and property type to match their needs and budget.
For those looking for a more urban lifestyle, La Crosse offers great opportunities for infill lots right in the city or in established neighborhoods. These allow you to build in locations close to downtown amenities and features like parks, schools, restaurants and shops.
Infill parcels tend to be more affordable and can be quite appealing for first-time homebuyers or young professionals. Being near the action is a major plus. And the lots allow creative use of space for smaller homes or multi-family housing.
On the other end of the spectrum are larger rural acreages in the towns and countryside surrounding La Crosse proper. These mini-farms allow room for horses, gardens, hobby farms or just privacy and seclusion.
Between the two extremes, you’ll find an array of traditional suburban subdivisions, some brand new and others decades old but well-maintained. These offer classic single-family lots perfect for growing families.
Riverside lots are also popular for those wanting waterfront living and scenic views. The La Crosse market features both bluff parcels overlooking the river as well as more secluded properties along back channels and sloughs.
Regardless of lifestyle or budget, the variety here makes it easy to find just what you’re looking for, from affordable infill lots for custom bungalows to sprawling acres for horse lovers. La Crosse offers opportunities across the spectrum.
Several Active Developers Offering New Subdivisions
The La Crosse real estate market features several active developers and builders creating new subdivisions and communities to appeal to homebuyers. This expands options and provides more modern, amenity-rich neighborhoods.
Large regional firms like Zerr Associates and Carriage Properties have multiple projects underway in the area. But you’ll also find smaller, local developers like Eagle Construction, Log Homes of La Crosse, and Creative Design Homes.
These new subdivisions cater to a range of buyers, from young millennial couples purchasing their first home to move-up buyers looking for more amenities and square footage. Many are located on the outskirts of town with easy highway access.
Features that attract buyers to these new communities include options like community pools, clubhouses, fitness centers, walking trails, playgrounds and advanced internet access. Home styles range from townhomes and duplexes to larger single-family models.
Several of the new developments follow trends like conservation design to preserve green space, wetlands and trees while clustering homes on smaller lots. Others offer completely custom lots and home packages.
Segmentation within specific subdivisions allows builders to offer diversity in size, price and features. For instance, one may have entry-level cottages along with estate lots for executive homes.
With mortgage rates still favorable, these developers are striving to bring inventory online to match demand from both new residents and those relocating within the area. Their activity provides positive signs of steady, managed growth.
Lots With River And Bluff Views Command Premium Prices
One niche of the La Crosse real estate market that consistently brings top dollar is scenic lots located along the Mississippi River and bluffs. These exceptional views translates to premium pricing.
The striking limestone bluffs surrounding La Crosse are part of the river valley’s natural beauty. Lots situated near the ridge tops allow panoramic views across the water and wooded islands below.
Demand for these rare lots remains strong among those looking for a truly stunning setting. Retirees, remote workers and professionals relocating to La Crosse are drawn to the peacefulness and scenery. Prices per square foot surpass any other areasegment.
Direct riverfront access allows recreational opportunities like boating, kayaking and fishing. Some properties also include private docks and boat slips. Bluff lots sense of elevation provides extra privacy and seclusion.
In addition to the views, another factor driving the premium for bluff properties is limited supply. The topography allows fewer options to carve out lots along the ridges compared to flat farmland.
While bargains can still occasionally be found, owners are well aware of the desirability these scenic lots command. Sale prices reaching double or more the cost of inland lots are not uncommon.
For buyers less concerned with budget, owning a slice of the majestic bluffs is a chance to enjoy sunrises over the Mississippi and some of Wisconsin’s most impressive vistas.
City Working To Revitalize Downtown With New Construction
A bright spot in the La Crosse real estate scene is a focused effort by the city to encourage investment and new construction downtown. Lots and older buildings are being revitalized into trendy new spaces.
City planners have implemented a master plan known as Downtown Mainstreet Inc. aimed at boosting economic growth in the urban core. Part of this involves incentives for developers to build on vacant parcels and reimagine underutilized properties.
Several high-profile projects have taken shape recently, including a new six-story apartment building with retail space and a Hyatt hotel built in a former factory. This momentum is generating more interest.
Working with community partners, the city has facilitated public forums to identify other “opportunity sites” ripe for mixed-use development. These city-owned land parcels often come with attractive sale terms or tax credits.
Zoning policies allow for greater density, variance in allowable uses, fast-tracked permitting and design flexibility. This creative environment welcomes innovative concepts.
By bringing more professionals downtown to work and live, the goal is to drive demand for shops, restaurants and entertainment. New public spaces like plazas aim to attract activity and events.
The coordinated efforts demonstrate La Crosse’s commitment to thoughtful, managed growth in the urban core. For developers and businesses, it presents unique opportunities to be part of the revitalization.
Strong Rental Market Makes Building On Spec Appealing
One interesting trend among builders and developers in La Crosse is constructing new homes on speculation due to a strong rental market. The ability to lease out properties helps offset slower sales.
With demand high and vacancies low, new construction can potentially rent for a nice income even if it takes longer to find an end buyer. This makes building on spec less risky.
Professionals moving to La Crosse for jobs often initially rent, uncertain if they want to settle down long-term. The same goes for those relocating within the area.
Rental properties also appeal to young couples and families not yet ready for the commitment of buying. They may want to live in a certain school district or neighborhood before purchasing.
New construction often rents for a premium over existing homes thanks to modern designs and amenities. Granite, stainless steel appliances, open floor plans and finishes like hardwood are desirable.
The strong leasing demand has led builders to carry more spec inventory. They can recoup construction costs through several years of rents before ultimately selling to an owner-occupant.
This segment of the market has been boosted by rising material and land costs. Building on spec hedges risk should the for-sale market cool.
For buyers, quality rental options also provide flexibility during their home search. The market helps both builders and tenants.
Low Property Taxes Compared To Other Midwestern Cities
An appealing factor for homebuyers and builders considering La Crosse is relatively low property tax rates compared to other cities in the Midwest.
With no income tax in Wisconsin, property taxes carry a higher share of overall burden. But La Crosse’s rate of about 1.8% of assessed home value remains under nearby cities.
For example, Madison’s average effective rate approaches 2.4%. Other major Wisconsin metros like Green Bay, Appleton and Eau Claire all fall between 2% and 2.2%. This difference quickly adds up for owners.
Part of the reason La Crosse has room to keep rates lower is the value offered. Home prices are generally 20-25% below these other regional competitors on a per square foot basis.
Yet La Crosse doesn’t sacrifice amenities, with access to arts, shops, restaurants and outdoor recreation. Healthcare is anchored by one of the Midwest’s premier systems in Mayo Clinic.
This combination of lower taxes and solid services helps attract new residents and business investment. In turn, the growing property base widens resources without hiking rates.
Builders enjoy the savings too, as lower operating costs allow room in pricing. And buyers keep more money long-term for homeowners insurance, utilities and other essentials.
While not the only factor, modest taxes improve La Crosse’s advantage for owners compared to many other Midwestern cities.
Easy Access To Recreational Opportunities On River And Trails
One major lifestyle advantage that boosts La Crosse’s appeal is easy access to outdoor recreation, from the Mississippi River to miles of scenic trails.
The La Crosse River State Trail runs for 21 miles along a former railroad, offering walking, running and biking through wetland areas and woodlands.
Another major trail is the Great River State Trail extending 24 miles north along the river. Hikers can view some of Wisconsin’s most dramatic bluff landscapes.
Pettibone Park and the marsh boardwalks are popular with families and birdwatchers. La Crosse’s river location also enables activities like boating, kayaking, fishing and swimming.
Winter activities embrace the climate, with groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Sledding hills offer family fun after snow falls.
easy access to these activities right in town enhances quality of life. Those moving from larger metros are often amazed by the natural beauty just minutes from neighborhoods.
For homebuyers, proximity to parks, trails, the river and outdoor amenities can be a major factor in choosing lots and neighborhoods. It’s a built-in recreational lifestyle.
Active individuals, families and retirees all appreciate La Crosse’s natural spaces that promote healthy living right outside the front door.
La Crosse, Wisconsin is a great place to live, work, and play. This historic river city offers a high quality of life, a vibrant downtown, and access to abundant outdoor recreation. For these reasons, La Crosse continues to attract new residents despite slower growth in recent decades. One advantage for homebuyers is that La Crosse real estate remains very affordable compared to other parts of the state. Opportunities abound for purchasing vacant lots or building sites to construct a new home. Let’s explore some key facts and options for lots for sale in and around La Crosse.
Major Employers Like Mayo Clinic Draw Professionals To Area
A top attraction drawing newcomers to La Crosse is the strong job market. Major employers like Gundersen Health System, Mayo Clinic Health System-Franciscan Healthcare, Kwik Trip, Trane Technologies and the La Crosse School District provide thousands of good-paying jobs. This economic stability means professionals can confidently put down roots by purchasing land and custom building a house.
The city’s location along the Mississippi River led to growth in the lumber industry in the 1800s. Today healthcare, education, manufacturing and tourism sustain the economy. La Crosse continues reinventing itself, recently expanding in sectors like technology, finance, insurance and scientific research. With an unemployment rate under 3%, workers enjoy tremendous job security. This gives people the confidence to buy vacant lots or properties ripe for redevelopment.
Affordable Pricing Attracts First-Time Homebuyers
The median listing price for La Crosse real estate is around $184,900, while median list prices in the state top $300,000. This makes the La Crosse area very affordable for first-time homebuyers. With mortgage rates still near historic lows, now is an excellent time to find available lots for sale to build a starter home.
Most lots for sale are located in the city of La Crosse proper. But some good options exist in surrounding communities like Onalaska, Holmen, West Salem and Shelby. Large parcels of vacant land are harder to find in the city center. But a number of infill lots offer opportunities, including some city-owned properties.
Custom Building Allows Personalization
One advantage of purchasing land is the ability to custom build and design a home. Working with area builders like Eagle Construction, Integrity Built, Phil Dasler Construction and others allows tailoring a residence to your family’s needs. This personalization and attention to detail is hard to find in the resale housing market.
Having an open canvas to work with opens up exciting design possibilities. You can opt for the latest trends, like open concept spaces and large kitchens. With the help of architects and designers, building new allows creativity in floorplans, features and finishes.
Vacant Lots Found in Neighborhoods and Rural Areas
Available lots and acreages are located across La Crosse County. In the city, you may find vacant building sites in established neighborhoods close to schools and parks. A single empty lot among houses allows blending into the surrounding community.
For those seeking more space, opportunities exist on the fringes of town or in rural areas. French Island and Barre Mills offer quick access to jobs and shopping but a more secluded lifestyle. Large former farms present options to purchase 5-10 acres to build and enjoy privacy.
Make sure to research zoning restrictions carefully before purchasing land. Some parcels limit the size or height of new construction. This helps maintain compatibility with adjacent homes. But overly restrictive ordinances can constrain your options.
Due Diligence Checks Recommended
Before buying vacant land, be sure to complete all your due diligence. Check what utilities are available nearby and confirm any easements present. Have the land surveyed and order a title search to uncover any limitations.
If possible, dig a test hole where the future home’s foundation would go. This reveals the soil composition and helps assess any extra costs needed for excavating or fill. An engineer can test for adequate drainage and percolation.
Also investigate what providers service the area for trash pickup, snowplowing and other services. Confirm building requirements with the local municipality. Doing your homework in advance ensures no surprises arise later.
Financing Options Exist for Land Purchase
If you don’t have sufficient cash to purchase a vacant lot outright, financing options do exist. Some sellers will owner-finance a land contract purchase. You can also take out a personal loan or home equity loan for the down payment.
Banks and credit unions offer vacant land loans to qualified buyers. Rates tend to be a little higher than standard mortgages. Try working with a local lender familiar with area land values when exploring construction loans.
With a little searching, you can find the perfect building site to construct your dream home. La Crosse offers affordability, a great quality of life and a growing economy. Now is the ideal time to stake your claim by purchasing available land for sale before prices increase.
The city of La Crosse in western Wisconsin provides an exceptional quality of life and affordable cost of living. Nestled along the Mississippi River, La Crosse offers scenic beauty and access to abundant outdoor recreation. With major employers providing stable careers, it’s no wonder many people move to the area each year. Purchasing vacant land is a great opportunity to build a custom home. Let’s explore opportunities for buying lots and acreages for sale in La Crosse.
Vacant Parcels Available In Established Neighborhoods
One option for buyers is vacant in-fill lots located within neighborhoods across La Crosse. These individual empty lots provide a chance to blend in with surrounding homes. The convenience of being amongst existing development makes in-fill lots popular.
Established neighborhoods offer easy access to schools, parks, shopping and other amenities. Major districts like Washburn, Hintgen, Longfellow and Emerson all have occasional empty parcels between houses. Keep an eye out for yard signs or online listings advertising infill lots for sale.
Building on an in-fill lot allows matching the style and size of nearby homes. This helps maintain consistency within blocks of older houses. Though less private, positioning amongst neighbors provides community and security.
Custom Homes Possible on Larger Parcels
For those seeking more space and privacy, larger vacant parcels on the outskirts of La Crosse allow custom building a home. These former farmlands and woodlots of 5-10 acres provide room to spread out.
Areas like Barre Mills, French Island and Shelby offer nearby rural lots just minutes from town. This provides a country atmosphere but easy access to shopping, healthcare and entertainment. Larger lots mean fewer neighbors and more freedom.
Having enough acreage for ancillary structures like garages, pools or hobby sheds brings functionality. Homeowners can also create amenities like gardens, orchards or recreation areas on bigger parcels.
Confirm Zoning, Utilities Before Purchasing
When evaluating vacant land for sale, research the zoning restrictions in place. Some limit the maximum size of new construction or placement on the lot. Overly restrictive ordinances can constrain options for building.
Also confirm which utilities are available nearby and any easements present. Digging a test hole can reveal drainage capacity and soil conditions. Have an engineer assess percolation rates.
By completing due diligence upfront, you avoid headaches later. Be sure to survey parcel boundaries and do a title search for limitations. Consider looping in contractors early to provide input.
City Infill Lots Offer Convenience
For vacant building sites within La Crosse proper, proximity offers advantages. Walking or biking on paths allows accessing downtown or riverfront parks. Living near stores, restaurants and entertainment is a perk.
City lots place homeowners closer to major employers. This cuts down on commute times to healthcare facilities, schools, government offices and universities.
Some infill parcels are even owned by the city, like lots made available through demo programs. Building new helps improve dated neighborhoods. Infill stimulates investment in surrounding homes.
Partner with Quality Local Builders
The benefit of vacant land is constructing a fully custom home. Work with reputable area building firms like Integrity Built, Eagle Construction or C&S Builders when planning your dream residence.
These professionals can translate wish lists into realities, whether contemporary or traditional. Their expertise streamlines the complex process of property purchase, design and construction.
With vacant land, builders can optimize floorplans and finishes that reflect your lifestyle needs. Customization adds energy-efficiency, smart tech and all the latest amenities.
Financing Options Help Buyers
Though purchasing vacant land requires a larger down payment than a traditional home loan, financing helps buyers. Some sellers offer owner financing through land contracts over time.
Banks provide construction loans and vacant land mortgages at competitive rates to qualified applicants. Shopping around helps find the best terms.
Using a local lender familiar with the area is wise. They understand land values and opportunities in the La Crosse real estate market.
With a little searching, you can find appealing parcels to construct your perfect home. La Crosse offers an exceptional quality of life and room to grow. Seize the opportunity to purchase affordable land for sale before prices increase.
Known for its scenic location along the Mississippi River, La Crosse offers residents an exceptional quality of life. A historic lumber town, La Crosse has reinvented itself over the years. Today it provides high-paying jobs, affordable housing, and abundant recreation. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder many families move to the area each year. Purchasing land is a great opportunity to build a custom dream home. Let’s explore some of the options for vacant lots and parcels for sale around La Crosse.
School District Rated Highly Compared To Rest Of Wisconsin
One major attraction drawing new residents is the excellent La Crosse School District. It consistently ranks among the top in the state for academic performance. U.S. News & World Report named it the #2 school district in Wisconsin for 2022.
The district operates 17 elementary schools, 5 middle schools and 3 high schools. With small class sizes and innovative programs, students thrive. Excellent ratings make neighborhoods near schools highly desirable.
Young families moving to the area prioritize purchasing land near top-ranked schools. Vacant lots in districts like Emerson, Spence and North Woods are in high demand.
Affordability Attracts First-Time Homebuyers
Compared to other parts of Wisconsin, La Crosse real estate remains very affordable. Median home prices are around $185,000, while the statewide median nears $300,000. This makes purchasing vacant land viable for first-timers.
Building new allows buying just the lot upfront. Then you can construct a home over time as budget allows. With favorable mortgage rates, now is the moment to find available parcels before prices climb.
Affordability also attracts retirees looking to downsize. Custom building a smaller home tailored to their needs makes financial sense.
Due Diligence Prevents Surprises
Before purchasing vacant land, conduct thorough due diligence. Verify what utilities serve the area and check for easements. Order a survey to confirm parcel boundaries.
Test holes where foundations may go reveal soil conditions. Have an engineer assess drainage capacity. Complete title work to identify any restrictions on usage.
Research permit requirements in the local municipality. Review zoning regulations, height limits or setback rules. This prevents headaches after acquiring a site.
Nearby Rural Lots Offer Privacy
While infill lots within La Crosse provide convenience, larger parcels allow customizing without neighbors. Nearby rural communities like Shelby and Barre Mills have former farmlands just minutes from town.
These 5-10 acre lots offer privacy in the country while still allowing easy commutes. Their seclusion provides freedom to build ancillary structures like pools, shops or garages.
Homeowners can also create amenities like trails, gardens and recreation areas on bigger acreages. The space allows hobbies like beekeeping, orchards or raising livestock.
Quality Builders Help Bring Visions To Life
After securing land, partnering with a reputable builder is key. Top La Crosse firms like C&S Builders, Integrity Built and Eagle Construction translate dreams into reality.
Their expertise optimizes floorplans and finishes to match your lifestyle. With vacant land, everything can be customized including smart home tech and energy-efficient features.
Whether your taste is traditional or contemporary, local builders eliminate the headache of managing the design and construction process.
Creative Financing Options Available
One hurdle when buying vacant land is financing, since traditional mortgage loans usually require an existing structure. But creative options exist. Some sellers provide owner financing through land contracts.
Banks offer construction loans and vacant land mortgages at competitive rates to qualified buyers. Seek out a knowledgeable local lender familiar with area land values and opportunities.
Personal loans or tapping home equity provide other ways to come up with a downpayment. Shop around to find the best financing terms.
La Crosse provides an exceptional quality of life and room to grow. Now is the time to purchase affordable land for sale before prices escalate. Building new allows creating your perfect custom home.
Nestled along the Mississippi River in scenic western Wisconsin, La Crosse offers residents an exceptional quality of life. With historic charm and modern amenities, it provides the best of both worlds. Affordable housing, abundant recreation options, and major employers make La Crosse an attractive place to put down roots. Purchasing land here allows custom building your dream home. Let’s explore the options for vacant lots and parcels for sale in and around La Crosse.
Attractive Small Town Atmosphere With City Amenities
La Crosse manages to blend small town charm with urban conveniences. The historic downtown features boutique shops and restaurants in walkable blocks. Festivals like Oktoberfest celebrate the city’s German heritage.
Yet you’ll also find major healthcare systems, universities, arts and shopping. The scenic riverfront includes parks, trails and entertainment venues like the La Crosse Center and Cavalier Theater.
With major employers, quality schools, and a vibrant culture, La Crosse attracts newcomers each year. Purchasing vacant land allows building your custom residence to enjoy all the area offers.
Homebuilding Allows Personalization
One advantage of buying vacant land is the ability to build new from the ground up. You can fully customize to match your family’s lifestyle and tastes.
Optimized floorplans, top-notch finishes and the latest technology and trends can be incorporated. Work with reputable local construction firms like C&S Builders, Integrity Built or Eagle Construction to bring your vision to life.
Building on vacant land allows energy efficiency, smart home automation and designs not possible in existing homes. The sky’s the limit for your dream custom residence.
Vacant Parcels Found Across Region
Homebuyers will find available building sites across La Crosse County both in the city and surrounding rural townships. Large former farms offer 5-10 acres just minutes from downtown’s action.
Infill lots peppered throughout existing neighborhoods provide opportunities to match adjacent homes. Shelby and Barre Mills have scenic wooded lots near the river bluffs.
French Island’s vacant parcels allow quick access to La Crosse but more seclusion. Carefully research zoning laws before purchasing land anywhere.
School District Rated Tops in Wisconsin
Young families moving to the area often prioritize purchasing land within the highly-rated La Crosse School District. It perennially ranks among Wisconsin’s top districts.
With 17 elementaries, 5 middle schools and 3 high schools, families have options to find the right fit. Smaller class sizes, innovative programs and reasonable taxes make the district shine.
Vacant lots near top schools like North Woods International, Spence and Emerson sell quickly.real estate near good schools almost always retains value over time.
Creative Financing Helps Buyers
One challenge when purchasing vacant land is financing, since banks prefer lending on existing structures. But creative options exist for buyers.
Some sellers offer owner financing through land contracts. Personal loans or tapping home equity provide other means to afford a downpayment.
Construction loans and vacant land mortgages are available through local banks and credit unions. An experienced lender understands options to fit your needs and budget.
La Crosse provides an exceptional quality of life and room to grow. Seize the opportunity to purchase affordable land for sale before prices escalate.
Investors And Contractors Eager To Build On Infill Lots
La Crosse, Wisconsin is seeing a surge of interest in infill lots as investors and contractors look to build new homes in established neighborhoods. Infill refers to vacant or underutilized land within an existing community, usually inside city limits and serviced by public infrastructure like roads, sewer and water. These small plots offer opportunities for residential development that maximizes existing resources.
15 Eye-Opening Facts About Lots For Sale In La Crosse Wi:
If you’re looking for lots for sale in La Crosse WI, here are 15 fascinating facts you should know:
- There are over 200 vacant residential lots currently for sale in the La Crosse area, ranging from $5,000 to over $100,000.
- Most measure between 0.10 to 0.5 acres, allowing for modest to mid-sized homes.
- Neighborhoods with the most infill opportunities include Washburn, Hintgen, Powell-Poage-Hamilton and North Side.
- City planners actively promote infill development to make the most of existing infrastructure.
- Infill helps limit urban sprawl into undeveloped areas.
- It supports walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods when done right.
- Some lots have alley access, allowing for garages without street-front driveways.
- Established trees and landscaping add value and character.
- Most infill lots have access to municipal sewer and water systems.
- Some may require demolition of an existing derelict structure.
- Corner lots and lots near parks are especially desirable.
- Designs need to fit with neighborhood architectural aesthetics.
- Infill development must meet zoning and code requirements.
- It can be an affordable option for first-time home builders.
- Careful site planning is needed for oddly shaped lots.
These infill lots allow builders, investors and families a chance to become part of existing neighborhoods in La Crosse. With rising land costs, they offer a more affordable option compared to larger vacant land parcels further from the city center. The lots promote sustainable growth and make use of taxpayer-funded infrastructure.
However, infill development presents unique challenges. Careful designs are needed to match existing home sizes, styles and setbacks. Oddly shaped lots require creative site plans. Demolishing eyesore structures adds costs. Patience is needed to find the right lot that meets zoning requirements. And builders should talk to neighbors to ensure the new home complements the community.
Overall, infill lots provide opportunities for smart, sustainable development in mature La Crosse neighborhoods. They allow more residents to enjoy the benefits of living close to downtown while preventing sprawl. For investors, builders and buyers interested in shaping the future of La Crosse, these small lots offer big potential. With the right vision and execution, infill homes can be a win-win for developers and the community.
Demand For New Housing Expected To Remain Strong
The real estate market in La Crosse, Wisconsin continues to experience high demand for new housing. With a steady influx of new residents and changing household needs, analysts predict demand will stay strong for the foreseeable future. This bodes well for investors and builders eyeing infill lots for sale in La Crosse.
15 Intriguing Facts About Lots For Sale In La Crosse Wi:
If you are exploring opportunities in the La Crosse real estate market, here are 15 enlightening facts about available lots for sale:
- There are over 175 lots currently on the market, ranging from $15,000 to $120,000.
- Lot sizes vary from 0.12 acres to 0.6 acres, allowing customized home designs.
- Most lots are located in established neighborhoods close to downtown.
- Some are vacant while others have dilapidated homes requiring demolition.
- Corner lots and lots bordering parks are prized for views and access.
- City planners encourage sustainable infill development.
- Infrastructure like roads, sewer and utilities are already in place.
- Some lots have handy alley access for garages and parking.
- Mature trees and landscaping add value and character.
- Designs and finishes must fit the existing neighborhood style.
- Oddly shaped lots require creative site planning and home designs.
- Zoning, setbacks and codes ensure compatibility.
- Infill provides affordable entry points for first-time home builders.
- It supports walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods.
- Overall demand for housing outpaces available inventory.
The limited lot inventory, high demand and favorable location make La Crosse an attractive market for infill development. While building on small, urban lots has challenges, the rewards are substantial.
However, builders should carefully assess each lot and consult with city planners. Patience is required to find the right lot that allows a home design suiting both the buyer and the neighborhood context. Home styles, finishes, setbacks and landscaping must complement the community’s aesthetic. And demolition of existing dilapidated structures adds costs that must be budgeted.
But the demand fundamentals paint an optimistic picture for La Crosse real estate. The city is experiencing steady population growth as new residents are drawn to its historic charm and abundant recreation opportunities. Household sizes are also declining, requiring more housing units to accommodate the same population. This presents opportunities for smart infill development.
Furthermore, La Crosse’s market contains many older homes that require frequent repairs and updates. Newer infill homes provide move-up options for existing residents. And walkable neighborhoods allow downsizing baby boomers to remain active and engaged in the community.
For builders and investors able to navigate the unique aspects of infill lots, La Crosse offers a chance to profit while meeting the needs of current and future residents. The market conditions demonstrate strong support for appropriately-designed and positioned new housing in mature neighborhoods.