🚧 Why Washington County, FL Might Be the Smartest Place to Buy Land Right Now
Washington County has been overlooked for decades. But the smart money — and smart buyers — are starting to pay attention.
If you’re hearing the name “Chipley” pop up more often lately, you’re not imagining it. Between new home construction, job market investments, and an ambitious golf course plan, this quiet Panhandle county is making moves that could change its future — and increase land values in the process.
Here's what you should know.
🛠 A New Vision for Growth
In 2024, Washington County hired a new Economic Development Council director who’s not just watching things happen ; he’s making them happen. His mission? Bring in major brands and fresh jobs. Right now, he’s actively recruiting companies like Chick-fil-A and Enterprise Rent-a-Car to open locally.
And it’s not just talk.
The county is marketing a 138-acre industrial park to employers who want access to Interstate 10, which cuts directly through the area and connects the Florida Panhandle to the rest of the state and beyond.
That’s a massive logistical advantage — and it’s why some economic experts are calling this region “positioned for breakout growth” over the next 5–10 years.
🏗 Builders Are Betting on Sunny Hills
For the first time in decades, a national homebuilder is constructing affordable homes right here in Washington County.
Century Communities (aka Century Complete) has launched a new build-to-own neighborhood in Sunny Hills, a long-platted subdivision just south of Chipley. They’re offering:
🏡 2–4 bedroom homes
📐 937 to 1,684 sq ft
💰 Priced from $175K to $220K
Several homes are already under contract or completed, and they’re being marketed for their “small-town charm and abundance of activities”, including parks and even a 70-foot natural waterfall nearbySarasota County (Includ….
This is a game-changer for the area. Why? Because it signals end-user demand — not just investors flipping lots, but families and retirees actually moving in.
As these homes sell, nearby vacant lots (many under $10K) become much more desirable. It’s simple: more homes = more neighbors = more value for everyone.
⛳️ A Golf Course in the Works
In another bold move, a developer (New Hope Dunes LLC) has submitted plans for a 1,438-acre, 18-hole golf course and resort right in Washington County.
The site is zoned for recreational use, and the proposed plan includes:
A world-class course
Pro shop and amenities
Future housing development potential
Even if housing gets delayed, just the expectation of a golf community is already raising eyebrows — and potentially raising land values around it.
If you're thinking long-term land investment or second-home build site, this could be your future backyard.
🚗 Infrastructure + Spillover = Quiet Advantage
Washington County sits in the sweet spot of proximity without the price tag. It benefits from:
Highway 77 (north/south route to Panama City)
Interstate 10 (east/west artery across North Florida)
Neighboring counties booming from:
Tyndall Air Force Base rebuild
Port of Panama City expansion
Bay County growth
There’s also talk of rural broadband expansion, which could unlock the region for remote workers and digital nomads who want space, nature, and affordability.
You won’t find mega-developments here (yet). But you will find early-stage momentum that smart buyers are starting to recognize.
🧠 Final Takeaway: It's Not "If", It's "When"
Right now, Washington County offers something rare in Florida:
🏷 Low land prices (often under $10K for 0.25–0.5 acres)
🚀 Upside from actual, on-the-ground development
📈 An improving job market with real effort behind it
🏡 Builders already moving dirt and closing deals
This isn’t a promise of overnight returns. But if you’re looking for affordable land in a next-up market, Washington County is worth a serious look.
🌴 Want In Before Prices Catch Up?
At Paradise Parcels, we specialize in early-stage Florida land — the kind that’s affordable today but well-positioned for tomorrow.
We have lots in Chipley, Sunny Hills, and other growth-ready corners of the state. All with:
🚫 No credit checks
📝 Easy owner financing
❤️ Real humans helping you each step
📲 Text us at 727-537-9537 or
🌐 Explore available land at www.paradiseparcels.com