If you’ve been dreaming of space, peace, and a slower pace, a home on land might be exactly what you’re looking for. And around here in Lake County, Illinois and southern Kenosha County, Wisconsin, it’s not hard to find beautiful properties that offer just that.
But along with the quiet and open skies come a few things you might not think to ask about—like internet options, utility quirks, and what it really feels like to live closer to nature. I’ve lived this life, and I love it—but there are definitely a few things I wish I’d known sooner.
Here’s what to keep in mind as you picture your life a little further from the hustle.
Internet and Utilities: Don’t Assume Anything
One thing that’s easy to overlook when buying a home with land? The internet. If you’re coming from a neighborhood where fast Wi-Fi is a given, it might not even cross your mind to ask—but it should.
When we moved, it honestly didn’t even occur to me to ask about internet. I just assumed it would be fine—and it wasn’t. We dealt with slow speeds and spotty service for quite a while. It wasn’t until after COVID that T-Mobile Home Internet became available in our area, and thankfully, it’s been great ever since.
In more rural areas, internet access can vary a lot—even from one street to the next. Some places have fiber or cable, while others rely on satellite or cellular networks. And yes, there are still pockets where service can be pretty unreliable.
If you work from home, stream content, or have kids doing online school or gaming, strong internet is not just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. Country life has a lot of perks, but slow Wi-Fi isn’t one of them. Always ask what providers are available and talk to the current owners about what actually works.
It’s also worth checking on:
What type of internet is available (fiber, cable, satellite, or cellular)?
Whether the home is connected to natural gas or runs on propane.
Who handles trash pickup—some areas require a private service.
These aren’t always top-of-mind when you’re house hunting, but they have a big impact on day-to-day comfort. Ask the questions now, and thank yourself later.
Connection to Nature—and a Slower Pace
This is the part that draws many people in. Living in places like Wadsworth, Bristol, or western Pleasant Prairie means stepping into a slower rhythm of life. These communities sit in what’s known as the exurbs—areas beyond the traditional suburbs where neighborhoods give way to open space, farmland, and nature. The pace here is gentler. There’s less noise, more room to breathe, and a stronger connection to the outdoors. You’re more likely to hear birds than traffic and to actually notice the seasons changing, week by week.
For many, the move isn’t just about buying a new home—it’s about choosing a new lifestyle. You might find yourself starting a garden, taking peaceful walks along quiet roads, or spending more time outside, evenings around a bonfire or mornings watching the sunrise with a cup of coffee. The land seems to invite a slower, more intentional way of living.
That said, you’re not cut off from the world. In Northern Lake County, Gurnee Mills, Six Flags Great America, and downtown Kenosha are all just a short drive away. Milwaukee and Chicago are still within reach for work, travel, or a night out. And if you’re craving something quirky and unforgettable, the Bristol Renaissance Faire is practically in your backyard—one of the area’s most beloved seasonal events.
It’s a blend that really works for a lot of people: wide open space and peaceful living when you want it, and easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment when you need it.
Ready for the Exurbs?
It’s a blend that really works for a lot of people: wide open space and peaceful living when you want it, and easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment when you need it.
Living on land comes with its own rhythm—one that’s quieter, a little slower, and more connected, in every sense of the word. With the right mindset (and a little planning), it can be a lifestyle that feels not just different, but deeply right. Whether you’re drawn to the wide open spaces, the peace and privacy, or just the change of pace, the exurbs have a lot to offer.
If you’re thinking about making the move but aren’t sure where to start, I’d love to help. I live this life every day, and I know the questions to ask, the details to dig into, and the things that can make the transition smoother. Whether you’re dreaming, just starting to look, or already searching for the right property, I’m here to be a guide you can trust. Reach out anytime.
As a REALTOR® with BHHS Chicago, Daina Jacobson helps buyers and sellers navigate the Northern Lake County, Illinois, and Kenosha County, Wisconsin, real estate markets. Based in Wadsworth, Illinois, she is also a former interpreter fluent in American Sign Language. When she’s not assisting clients, Daina devotes time to animal rescue as one of the co-founders of Two Furs Rescue. Her love for nature extends beyond her rescue work—at home, she enjoys caring for her many pets including cats, a dog, chickens, and ducks and planting and preserving native plants and trees.