Land Loans and Financing Options
Whether you’re dreaming of raw land, planning a future build, or investing in your own slice of the Midwest, Lashley Land is here to guide you every step of the way. From finding the right property to exploring your best land loan and financing options, our local team makes buying land simple, clear, and built around your goals.
Can You Finance Land? Yes—Here’s How
Buying a piece of land is one of the most meaningful investments you can make, especially here in Nebraska. Whether you’re building your primary residence, expanding a family farm, or investing in recreational land, it all starts with the right financing. At Lashley Land, we’re here to help you understand your financing options and guide you through each step of the land purchase process.
While buying land is different from purchasing a home, getting a land loan is very possible with the right plan, preparation, and team behind you. Many buyers are surprised to learn that a traditional mortgage doesn’t usually apply to vacant land or unimproved land, but that doesn’t mean financing isn’t available. From seller financing to working with a credit union, there are many ways to fund your Nebraska land purchase.
Types of Land Loans
When it comes to financing a land purchase, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The type of loan you’ll need depends on the property’s location, how developed it is, and your long-term plans—whether that’s building a primary residence, starting a family farm, or investing in recreational land. Lenders assess land differently than homes, so it’s important to understand the types of land loans available and how they align with your goals.
Raw Land Loans
Raw land—or bare land with no utilities or access—is the most challenging to finance. These loans often come with higher interest rates and require a larger down payment. A solid, detailed plan for the property helps during the application process.
Unimproved Land Loans
Unimproved land may have some nearby infrastructure, but it still needs development. These loans offer more flexible terms than raw land, though you’ll still need strong credit and possibly a larger loan amount.
Improved Land Loans
Improved land has access to utilities, roads, or other services. These are generally easier to finance, with more favorable repayment terms and competitive rates, ideal for building a rural home.
USDA Rural Development Loans
Designed for qualifying rural property, these guaranteed loans support farm ownership loans and agricultural purposes. They often come with low monthly payments, reduced application fees, and minimal origination fees.
Land Loan Financing Options
There are several ways to finance your land purchase in Nebraska, depending on your goals, credit history, and the type of property. Lashley Land works closely with trusted land loan lenders across the state to help buyers explore the best payment options for their situation. Below are some common sources of land financing:
Local Banks and Credit Unions
A credit union or local bank may offer flexible terms and better insight into Nebraska’s market conditions, especially if you have an existing relationship.
Specialty Land Lenders
These lenders focus on raw land, recreational land, and agricultural purposes, offering tailored loan programs with more adaptable repayment terms.
Seller Financing
In this setup, the landowner finances the deal directly, often with faster credit approval and more personalized payment options.
Home Equity Loans or Lines of Credit (HELOC)
If you own property, a home equity loan can help fund your land purchase without starting a new mortgage loan, and often with no prepayment penalty.
How to Qualify for a Land Loan
Getting approved for a land loan takes preparation. Lenders view vacant land and unimproved land as higher risk, so it’s important to come to the table with a strong plan and solid financials.
- Check your credit: Most lenders look for a strong credit score before granting loan approval.
- Save for a down payment: Depending on the property type, expect a 20–50% of the purchase price.
- Have a detailed plan: Whether you’re buying for agricultural purposes, a future home, or an investment, show clear use of the land
- Understand the costs: Be ready for origination fees, surveys, appraisals, and other upfront costs.
- Get pre-approved: Knowing your loan amount and monthly payment range early can guide your search.
- Work with experts: Lashley Land can connect you with trusted financial institutions, explain loan options, and help you make smart decisions every step of the way.
Why Work with Lashley Land
Buying land is a major investment—and having the right team by your side makes all the difference. At Lashley Land, our focus is Nebraska. We live here, work here, and understand the real value of rural property, from raw land and recreational land to family farms and lot loans.
With over 40 years of experience as a farm and ranch brokerage, we’ve built trusted relationships with local and regional lenders who offer competitive rates, flexible terms, and financing tailored to Nebraska buyers. We can recommend lenders who specialize in farm credit, rural financing, and long-term land loan options—including those that accommodate higher interest rates or unique property types like unimproved land.
We’re also proud to have Skip Marland involved with our brokerage. Since 1975, Mr. Marland has underwritten agricultural loans across Nebraska, including real estate financing for vacant land, undeveloped land, and properties valued at over $1,000,000. His decades of expertise with trusts, 1031 exchanges, and complex financing structures make him a valuable asset to Lashley Land clients.
With deep local knowledge, strong lending connections, and a team committed to your success, Lashley Land provides more than listings—we provide a clear path to land ownership in Nebraska.
Testimonials
What Our Customers Say
Fionn Downhill
“Lashley Land were an excelent choice to help us naviagte the North Platte real estate market. We are from out of town and their diligence and service was greatly appreciated. They took care of everything for us and it was hassle free. ”
Jason Gibbs
“These folks know their stuff! From residential to farm, ranch, even recreational properties, Lashley Land is there for you with personalized service. ”
Jill Pelster
“Jordan Maassen was extremely helpful in getting our acreage sold. Lashley Land created a wonderful brochure of our property and did a great job of reaching potential buyers… ”
The Lashley Land mission is to provide you with the highest level of professional service and satisfy your expectations with a positive and seamless experience in the selling and buying of your property.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of loan do I need to buy land?
That depends on the property. You may need a raw land, unimproved land, or lot loan, depending on how developed the land is. Lashley Land can help connect you with the right land loan lender based on your goals.
Is financing land more difficult than buying a home?
It can be. Land often requires a larger down payment, shorter repayment terms, and may come with higher interest rates than a traditional mortgage. A strong credit score and a clear, detailed plan for the land can improve your chances of credit approval.
How much do I need for a down payment on a land loan?
Down payments typically range from 20% to 50% of the purchase price, depending on the type of loan and property. Some financing options, like a farm ownership loan or USDA loan, may offer more flexibility.
Can I use a home equity loan to buy land?
Yes. If you own a home, a home equity loan or line of credit may be used to finance a land purchase, especially if you’re looking to avoid a separate mortgage loan or reduce application fees.
What’s the difference between raw, unimproved, and improved land?
- Raw land: No utilities, roads, or development.
- Unimproved land: May have limited access or nearby infrastructure.
- Improved land: Ready for building with utilities and access in place.
What are my options if I don’t qualify for a traditional loan?
You may still qualify through seller financing, working with a credit union, or exploring alternative loan programs like those offered through government-backed loans.
Is seller financing a good idea?
It can be, especially if you’re having trouble qualifying for a traditional loan. Terms are often more flexible, but always review the agreement carefully and consider involving an attorney.
How long does it take to get approved for a land loan?
Timelines vary by lender, but approval usually takes 30 to 45 days. Being prepared with documents like a land survey, financial statements, and your land use plan can speed things up.