20 Acres – What It Means and How to Buy Smart

If you’re eyeing a plot that’s 20 acres, you probably picture space for a house, a garden, maybe a small farm. Twenty acres gives you room to breathe, but it also brings some decisions that are easy to miss if you haven’t dealt with land before.

How big is 20 acres?

One acre equals 43,560 square feet. Multiply that by 20 and you get 871,200 square feet. In miles, that’s about 0.03125 square miles. Think of a standard American football field (including end zones) as 1.32 acres – so 20 acres is roughly 15 football fields side by side. If you like rectangles, a common shape is 660 feet by 660 feet, which totals exactly 20 acres.

How to buy 20 acres wisely

First, check the price per acre in the area you like. Prices can jump from $5,000 per acre in remote regions to $200,000 or more near cities. Multiply the per‑acre cost by 20 to get a ballpark total, then add extra for taxes, surveys, and closing fees.

Next, look at zoning. Some 20‑acre parcels are zoned for farming, others for residential use, and a few have mixed rules. Knowing what you can build saves you headaches later. If you plan to put a house on the land, confirm that the zoning allows it and that the setback rules fit your design.

Water and utilities matter too. Does the land have a municipal water line, or will you need a well? Is there electricity nearby, or will you need a solar setup? Planning these basics early stops costly surprises.

Take a close look at the soil and terrain. A quick soil test can tell you if the ground will hold a foundation or support crops. Walk the property to spot hills, drainage issues, or flood‑prone areas. Easy road access is a must – a well‑maintained driveway can be the difference between a smooth purchase and a future repair nightmare.

Financing land is different from a home loan. Many banks offer land loans with higher down payments, often 20‑30%, and shorter terms. Some sellers also accept owner financing, which can be a flexible option if you have a solid plan for the land.

Finally, run a quick checklist before you sign:

• Confirm acreage with an official survey.
• Verify zoning and permitted uses.
• Check water, power, and septic options.
• Inspect soil and drainage.
• Review road access and easements.
• Understand the total cost, including hidden fees.

With those steps, 20 acres can become a solid investment, a perfect spot for a dream home, or a small working farm. Take your time, do the homework, and you’ll know exactly what you’re getting before the paperwork is signed.