The Best Counties to Buy Land in Maine

Rolling hills covered in pine trees, pristine lakes reflecting the sky, and a rugged coastline that stretches for miles. That's Maine for you – a land of natural wonders that's been catching the eye of savvy investors and nature lovers alike. If you've been dreaming of owning a slice of this northeastern paradise, you're not alone.

Let's talk numbers for a second. The United States Department of Agriculture's Land Values 2023 Summary tells us that farm real estate in Maine (that's land and buildings, folks) averaged $2,450 per acre in 2023. That's a 2.1% jump from 2022 – not too shabby, right? But here's the kicker: about 89% of Maine is covered in forests. Yep, you read that right. The Maine Forest Service confirms it's the most heavily forested state in the country. That's a whole lot of trees, and it means plenty of opportunities for timber investment or just enjoying your own private woodland retreat.

Now, before you start packing your bags and heading north, let's get real for a moment. Buying land in Maine isn't always a walk in the park (even if you end up with your own park to walk in). The market can be as unpredictable as New England weather. One day you're looking at a steal, the next day prices have shot up faster than a moose spotting a tourist. Location, zoning laws, and what's actually on the land all play a part in determining its value.

Some folks might tell you to go with a company that buys land at discount rates. Others swear by going it alone. There's no one-size-fits-all approach here. The key is to do your homework and know what you're getting into before you sign on the dotted line.

Alright, let's take a tour of some of Maine's counties that are turning heads in the land-buying world. We'll look at what makes each spot special, and what you might want to watch out for. Buckle up – we're going on a road trip through the Pine Tree State!

Aroostook County: The Big County with Big Opportunities

Up first is Aroostook County, affectionately known as "The County" by locals. This place is huge – seriously, it's bigger than Connecticut and Rhode Island combined. If you're looking for wide-open spaces, you've hit the jackpot.

What's to love:

• Farmland for days – potato fields as far as the eye can see
• Forests that'll make you feel like you've stepped back in time
• Rivers and lakes that are a paradise for anglers and paddlers
• Land prices that won't make your wallet weep

But keep in mind:

• Winters here are no joke – stock up on wool socks
• Don't expect big city amenities – the closest Starbucks might be a long drive away
• It's pretty far from major cities – "getting away from it all" takes on a whole new meaning

Aroostook is perfect if you've always dreamed of owning a big chunk of land without breaking the bank. Just be prepared for a lifestyle change if you're used to city living.

Piscataquis County: Where the Moose Outnumber the People

Next up is Piscataquis County, home to Moosehead Lake and parts of Baxter State Park. If you're the type who thinks the best neighbor is no neighbor, this might be your happy place.

The good stuff:

• Lakes, rivers, and streams galore – a water lover's dream
• Forests that seem to go on forever
• Mount Katahdin in your backyard (well, almost)
• Peace and quiet like you wouldn't believe

The not-so-good stuff:

• Job opportunities can be as rare as a warm day in January
• Those lovely remote locations? They can be a pain when you need groceries
• Some areas have land use rules stricter than a boarding school headmaster

Piscataquis is calling your name if you've ever fantasized about running a wilderness lodge or just want to own a piece of honest-to-goodness, unspoiled nature.

Washington County: Where Blueberries Meet the Sea

Ah, Washington County – the "Sunrise County" because it's where the sun first hits the U.S. each morning. It's a place where you can have your blueberry pie and eat it too, right by the ocean.

Why you'll love it:

• Coastline that'll make your Instagram followers green with envy
• Blueberry barrens that turn into a sea of blue (and green) in the summer
• A rich maritime history that'll make you want to learn to sail
• Land prices that won't force you to live on a diet of ramen noodles

But watch out for:

• The job market can be as unpredictable as the tides
• Tourism season brings in the cash, but winters can be lean
• It's a hike to any major city – Portland might as well be on another planet

If you've been dreaming of coastal property or fancy trying your hand at blueberry farming, Washington County might just be your slice of heaven.

Franklin County: For Mountain Lovers and Lake Enthusiasts

Moving inland, we hit Franklin County. This is where the Appalachian Trail starts to get really interesting, and skiers find their happy place.

The highlights:

• A chunk of the Appalachian Trail to call your own (well, sort of)
• Ski resorts that'll make you pray for snow
• Lakes and streams that'll have you humming "Row, Row, Row Your Boat"
• A nice mix of farms and forests

The lowlights:

• The economy can be as seasonal as the leaf-peepers
• Popular spots near ski resorts can command prices that'll make your eyes water
• Some of that varied terrain might limit your grand plans for a personal golf course

Franklin County is your jam if you're all about that mountain life or dream of a cozy lakeside cabin.

Somerset County: Rivers Run Through It

Somerset County is like that friend who's got a little bit of everything going on. Forests? Check. Rivers? You bet. Farmland? Plenty.

What's great:

• The mighty Kennebec River – perfect for rafting enthusiasts
• Enough trees to make a lumberjack swoon
• A mix of rural charm and small-town convenience
• Land prices that won't require you to sell a kidney

What's not so great:

• Some areas are about as lively as a sloth on a lazy day
• River valleys can flood – hope you like impromptu water features
• Job opportunities can be hit or miss, depending on where you land

Somerset County is calling if you're after that Goldilocks "just right" balance of accessibility and getting back to nature.

Oxford County: Lakes, Mountains, and Everything in Between

Oxford County is like Maine's highlight reel – you've got mountains, lakes, and enough small-town charm to fill a Hallmark movie marathon.

The pros:

• More lakes and ponds than you can shake a canoe paddle at
• A slice of the White Mountain National Forest
• Ski resorts for your winter fun, and everything else for the other seasons
• Towns that'll make you feel like you've stepped into a postcard

The cons:

• Popular spots can come with price tags that'll make your eyes pop
• The economy does the tourist season cha-cha – busy summers, quieter winters
• Some areas have zoning laws stricter than your high school principal

If you're after a place that's equal parts natural beauty and Norman Rockwell painting, Oxford County might be your perfect match.

Penobscot County: A Little Bit Country, A Little Bit Rock 'n' Roll

Last but not least, we've got Penobscot County. It's like the mullet of Maine counties – business in the front (hello, Bangor), party in the back (vast wilderness, anyone?).

Why you'll dig it:

• Bangor brings the urban perks without the big-city headaches
• Forests and farmland as far as the eye can see
• Got a kid eyeing college? The University of Maine is right here
• An economy that's not just relying on lobster and lighthouses

Why you might not:

• Land prices play hopscotch depending on how close you are to Bangor
• Some areas are changing faster than a teenager's mood
• Zoning can be a patchwork quilt of regulations

Penobscot County is your spot if you want to have your city cake and eat your country pie too.

Some Real Talk About Buying Land in Maine

Now that we've taken our whirlwind tour, let's chat about some nitty-gritty details you'll want to keep in mind:

1. Zoning Zones: Maine's counties and towns can have zoning laws more complex than a Stephen King novel. Always check what you can actually do with your land before buying.
2. Access and Utilities: That beautiful piece of wilderness might be a bear to get to – literally. Factor in road access and whether you'll need to play pioneer with wells and septic systems.
3. The Tax Man Cometh: Property taxes in Maine can vary more than the weather. Do your homework on local rates before committing.
4. Hidden Treasures (and Responsibilities): Your land might come with timber or mineral rights. That can be a gold mine or a headache, depending on how you look at it.
5. Maine's Mood Swings: Those picture-perfect summers come with a side of "wicked" winters. Think about how you'll handle the property year-round.
6. Local Know-How: Tap into the local brain trust – real estate agents, surveyors, and lawyers who know Maine's land market better than they know their own woodpiles.
7. Show Me the Money: Buying land often means getting creative with financing. Look into land loans, owner financing, or start saving your pennies.
8. Crystal Ball Gazing: Even if you're buying purely for your own "Into the Wild" fantasies, consider the land's future development potential. It could affect your wallet down the line.

Final Thoughts

Here's the thing about buying land in Maine – it's not always a smooth ride. The market can be as unpredictable as a game of Duck, Duck, Goose. Some folks find success with companies that offer quick cash purchases, while others prefer to navigate the wild waters themselves.

And if you're on the other side of the fence, looking to sell land in Maine? Brace yourself for a potentially long journey. Selling land can take anywhere from 1-2 years if you're gunning for top dollar. It's a specialty market, and it takes time to find the right buyer. If time's not on your side, there are companies out there (like Land Boss, for instance) that specialize in quicker sales, though often at a lower price point.

Whether you're buying or selling, approaching the Maine land market is a bit like preparing for a wilderness expedition. You need patience, solid research, and a clear idea of what you're after. But get it right, and you could end up with your own piece of paradise in the Pine Tree State. Just remember – good things come to those who wait, and sometimes to those who aren't afraid to trek off the beaten path.

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