Rick owns and operates Visions First Realty in Northern Wisconsin. As a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) — a designation held by only the top 3% of REALTORS® nationwide — Rick brings proven expertise to every transaction, backed by his SRS, GRI, and ABR credentials on both the buyer and seller side.
But credentials only tell part of the story.
Rick’s lived in the Northland for years and knows Ashland, Bayfield, and Douglas Counties inside and out. He’s straightforward, listens to what you actually need, and supports his clients long after closing day. Need a contractor recommendation two years later? Rick’s still there to help.
Looking for your first home? A place on the lake? An investment property? Rick knows the neighborhoods, the market, and the people. He’ll give you honest answers and help you make smart decisions about one of the biggest purchases of your life.
Real estate in Northern Wisconsin is Rick’s business and his community. When you work with him, you get someone who’s invested in both — and the professional credentials to back it up.
Thinking about selling? As a Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) — a designation held by a select few agents in Northern Wisconsin — Rick has advanced training specifically in representing sellers. From pricing strategy to negotiation, you get an advocate who knows exactly how to protect your interests and maximize your return.
C2EX
Rick holds the NAR C2EX Endorsement — recognition for professionals who demonstrate the highest standards in ethics, technology, advocacy, and client service. Few agents in Northern Wisconsin hold this distinction.
Ashland County offers exceptional value for land buyers in Northern Wisconsin. From wooded parcels on the edges of Ashland and Washburn to rural acreage deep in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest corridor, Ashland County delivers genuine Northwoods character, recreational access, and space at price points significantly below comparable properties in neighboring Bayfield County.
At Visions First Realty, based in Washburn, WI at the center of Ashland County’s lake communities, we know this market and these properties. Browse current listings above or contact us today to discuss what’s available.
Why Buy Land in Ashland County?
Exceptional Value on the South Shore
Land in Ashland County typically offers comparable recreational access and natural character to Bayfield County at significantly lower price points. For buyers seeking space, privacy, and Northwoods lifestyle without premium pricing, Ashland County consistently delivers the best value on the South Shore.
Chequamegon Bay & Lake Superior Access
Ashland County’s South Shore location places land parcels within reach of Chequamegon Bay’s protected waters, Lake Superior beaches, and the broader South Shore recreational corridor — a combination that is genuinely rare on the Great Lakes.
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
Ashland County contains extensive national forest lands providing unmatched recreational access directly adjacent to many parcels. Hunting, fishing, hiking, ATV and snowmobile trails, and wilderness access are built into daily life for land bordering or near public forest lands. Parcels adjacent to national forest carry significant value from this extended recreational footprint.
Four-Season Recreation
Land in Ashland County provides direct access to four-season recreation. Snowmobile and ATV trail networks connect rural parcels to hundreds of miles of groomed trails. Summer brings fishing on Chequamegon Bay and numerous inland lakes. Fall hunting seasons for deer, bear, turkey, and grouse draw buyers specifically seeking acreage with timber.
Investment & Appreciation Potential
Recreational land in desirable Northern Wisconsin markets historically appreciates over time. Limited availability of pristine Northwoods property, growing demand from outdoor enthusiasts, and timber value on wooded parcels all contribute to long-term investment potential in Ashland County.
Types of Land Available in Ashland County
Wooded Acreage & Hunting Land
Ashland County’s diverse timber and wildlife habitat makes it one of the top hunting land markets in Northern Wisconsin. Wooded parcels range from small recreational lots to large tracts bordering national forest, offering deer, bear, turkey, and grouse hunting on your own land.
Waterfront & Inland Lake Parcels
Ashland County’s numerous inland lakes offer opportunities to acquire waterfront or lake-access parcels for building, camping, or recreation. Chequamegon Bay shoreline and inland lake frontage are available depending on location, frontage, and zoning.
Rural Building Sites
Vacant parcels suitable for custom home construction are available throughout Ashland County. We evaluate every building site honestly — access, utilities, zoning, and buildability — before you commit to purchase. Not every parcel that looks good on a map is ready to build.
Recreational & Investment Parcels
Many buyers purchase Ashland County land for seasonal use, long-term appreciation, or timber value. Whether you’re looking for a place to camp and hunt or a long-term land investment, we identify parcels that match your specific goals.
Large Acreage Tracts
Significant parcels for serious land buyers — 100+ acre wilderness properties, diverse terrain tracts, timber investment opportunities, and legacy family land holdings. Large tracts appeal to serious hunters, investors, and families seeking maximum wilderness experience and seclusion.
What to Know Before You Buy
Ashland County Zoning
Ashland County maintains its own zoning code governing rural land use, setbacks, and structure placement. Shoreland zoning applies near navigable waters. We review applicable zoning as standard practice on every land transaction.
Road Access & Utilities
Year-round road access versus seasonal access significantly affects property use and value. We verify access status on every parcel. Internet connectivity varies by location — an important consideration for remote workers evaluating rural properties.
Surveys & Boundary Lines
Many rural parcels in Ashland County have not been recently surveyed. We connect buyers with licensed surveyors and recommend surveys on parcels where boundary lines are unclear. Know exactly what you’re buying before you close.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Ashland County compare to Bayfield County for land?
Similar recreational access and natural character at significantly lower prices. Ashland County is the value choice on the South Shore — same lifestyle, better affordability.
Can I hunt on my land in Ashland County?
Yes. Wisconsin allows hunting on private property you own. Ashland County offers excellent deer, bear, and grouse hunting with extensive public land nearby extending your opportunities further.
Can I build on land I purchase in Ashland County?
Yes, if zoning permits and the land is suitable. Verify septic capability, well potential, road access, and building permits with the county before purchase. We review these factors on every parcel we represent.
What property tax programs are available for Ashland County land?
Wisconsin’s Managed Forest Law (MFL) program can reduce property taxes significantly in exchange for a forest management commitment. We provide specific tax information for every parcel you’re considering.
Do you work with out-of-state buyers?
Absolutely. We regularly work with buyers from Minnesota, Illinois, and beyond. We coordinate remote showings and guide buyers through Wisconsin-specific purchase requirements from start to closing.
Is lakefront land available in Ashland County?
Yes. Ashland County has numerous inland lakes as well as Chequamegon Bay shoreline opportunities. Waterfront parcels sell quickly — contact us to be notified when new waterfront land becomes available.
Start Your Ashland County Land Search
Whether you’re buying hunting land, a lakefront parcel, recreational acreage, a future building site, or an investment property, Visions First Realty offers comprehensive land expertise across Ashland County. Our office is in Washburn — minutes from Ashland — and we know this county. Browse current listings above or contact us today.
