Chase Burns

Illinois Land Broker

Local Expertise Within Reach

Illinois Managing Broker | Specialist in Farmland & Rural Properties

Chase Burns is a seasoned real estate professional and managing broker in Illinois, specializing in tillable farmland, pasture land, hunting properties, and rural homes on acreage. Since beginning his career in 2013, Chase has successfully represented properties ranging from $25,000 tracts to multimillion-dollar estates. Known for his client-focused approach, he brings expertise, integrity, and a genuine commitment to serving others, making him a trusted partner in rural land transactions.

Raised on a farm with deep roots in agriculture, Chase’s connection to the land was fostered early through FFA and 4H, where he raised livestock and developed a lifelong respect for rural living. His professional background is just as diverse, with a degree in Wildlife Biology from Southern Illinois University, certification as a Level 3 Deer Steward, and experience as a forest manager and private lands wildlife habitat consultant. An accomplished bowhunter, Chase provides clients with an expert eye for evaluating recreational and hunting land.

In addition to his real estate career, Chase and his wife, Jackie, are active in their community. Together, they restored a historic building to establish Prairie Crossroads Mercantile in Viola, Illinois. On their Mercer County farm, they raise cattle and horses while maintaining a diverse homestead complete with chickens, honey bees, a garden, orchard, and greenhouse. Their field-to-fork lifestyle reflects their shared values of sustainability and hard work.

  • Managing Broker with over a decade of experience in rural real estate
  • Specialist in farmland, pasture, hunting properties, and rural homes
  • Certified Level 3 Deer Steward with expertise in wildlife habitat and forest management
  • Dedicated to community revitalization and sustainable living

Chase’s commitment to family, faith, and the outdoors drives his personalized approach to helping clients achieve their landownership goals. His continued study of Midwest agricultural trends and real estate marketing ensures clients receive exceptional guidance and results.

-Member of the National Association of REALTORS®
Licensed in Illinois (471.019052): LandGuys, LLC of Illinois | Springfield, IL

Chase Burns
North Henderson, IL 61466
License #471.019052
States licensed in
IL

Listings by Chase Burns

New Listing
Mercer County, IL
This land is an outstanding recreational property, with a great spot to build a home. Located in western Mercer County, IL, this land is not far from the Mississippi River, where you can fish and pleasure boats all summer long. The property boasts a ...
15± Acres
|
$185,000
Under Contract
Henderson County, IL
(SALE PENDING)-This farm is a dandy farmland investment for anyone looking to gain strong appreciation, and great cashflow from their next land purchase! It boasts nearly 104 acres in row crop production, with an average PI of 134.2. Another 44+ acre...
155± Acres
|
$2,022,623
1

Testimonials

Buyer
Chase Burns defines “Above and Beyond”. My husband and I moved to Illinois from California, in the middle of an extended winter. Chase was amazing. We described the little farmhouse with acreage that we were dreaming about, and Chase found it. But, he didn’t want us to fly all the way to Illinois without seeing interior photos and having a full report, so he went out of his way to tour the property and sent us tons of pics and a full review, including info on the septic, roof and plumbing. We fell in love with our farmhouse and put an offer in within five days of the house being on the market. We have lived here and enjoyed our property for three months, now. Two mini-horses, three baby goats, 18 chickens, four cats and two dogs later… We are so in love with our hobby farm! Chase has freely shared his knowledge and contacts for land, hay, property upgrades, remodeling, ect. He is not only a professional realtor and an invaluable resource, he has also become a great friend. We have family planning to move to Illinois in the next year, and Chase’s services will be highly recommended to them! Thank you Chase for making our dreams come true.
Andrea Plumlee

Contact
Chase Burns

Recent Articles

The First Step to Your Dream Property: Insights from Chase Burns     When it comes to buying rural land, preparation is the key to success. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping countless buyers navigate the process, and one thing remains true: starting with a clear vision makes all the difference. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful homestead, productive farmland, or the ultimate hunting retreat, having a plan in place is essential. As a managing broker with LandGuys, I’ve spent over a decade working with buyers to match them with the right properties. My approach combines industry expertise, firsthand experience with rural living, and a passion for helping clients achieve their goals. Let me walk you through the process—and introduce a tool that will make your land-buying journey even smoother. Start Early and Define Your Goals The first and most important step is to start early and take time to reflect on your goals. Ask yourself: Why do I want to buy land? What are my top priorities—farming, ranching, hunting, or something else? What is my budget, both for the purchase and potential improvements? These questions aren’t just for you—they’re for your broker, too. The more clarity you have, the better we can guide you toward properties that align with your vision. Introducing the Ultimate Land Buyer’s Planning Workbook To help you get started, LandGuys created the Ultimate Land Buyer’s Planning Workbook. This interactive guide walks you through everything from prioritizing property features to outlining your long-term goals. Here’s what you’ll find inside: Reflection: Define your rural dream—whether it’s peace and quiet, outdoor recreation, or agricultural productivity. Features & Priorities: Rank the land features that matter most, like timber, water access, or proximity to town. Vision & Development Plans: Explore potential property improvements or development ideas. Challenges & Deal-Breakers: Identify potential obstacles and absolute no-go’s for your property. By completing this workbook, you’ll create a clear roadmap for your search. It’s a tool that not only helps you, but also allows your broker to refine the search and identify properties that bring your vision to life. Your First Property: A Stepping Stone to Your Dream One of the most important things to remember as a first-time land buyer is that your initial purchase doesn’t have to be your forever property. Often, that first piece of land serves as a stepping stone—an investment that helps you build equity and opens the door to your dream property down the road. Whether it’s through natural appreciation, smart improvements, or buying in an area poised for growth, the value you build in your first property can set you up for future success. At LandGuys, we help buyers think strategically, ensuring that every step they take is part of a larger plan to achieve their long-term goals. The Role of a Trusted Broker Buying rural property is a unique process, and working with an experienced broker makes a world of difference. At LandGuys, we specialize in farmland, hunting properties, recreational land, and rural homes. With years of hands-on experience, we help buyers navigate the complexities of rural real estate. Our process starts with understanding your goals. Using the information from the workbook, we’ll filter out properties that won’t meet your needs and focus on those that align with your vision. Beyond finding the right property, we also guide buyers on how their first land purchase can serve as a stepping stone toward their dream property. Let’s Start Your Journey Your dream property is closer than you think. Start by downloading the Ultimate Land Buyer’s Planning Workbook, and take time to reflect on what you want. Once completed, share it with your LandGuys broker. Together, we’ll strategize to find the property that’s right for you, whether it’s your first purchase or part of a larger journey toward your ultimate goals. At LandGuys, we’re not just here to sell land—we’re here to help you build a future. Let’s take the first step together. Download the Workbook Here For more tips on buying and selling land or to browse current listings, visit LandGuys.com. Let’s find the perfect piece of land for you—today, tomorrow, and for years to come.
Written By: Illinois Land Broker, Chase Burns. In the heart of the Midwest, the Illinois homestead market boom is quietly reshaping the real estate landscape. This movement, once on the fringes, has gained traction over the past decade, reflecting a profound shift in societal values and economic priorities. Illinois has emerged as a hotspot for enthusiasts seeking a slice of rural paradise. The Rise of the Homestead Movement The allure of homesteading can be attributed to a confluence of social and economic factors. In an era marked by increasing urbanization and digital saturation, many individuals are seeking refuge in the tranquility of rural life. The rising cost of groceries, restaurant bills, and everything else has made growing your own food at home an appealing option, even to those who had never considered it before. The pandemic further accelerated this trend, as lockdowns prompted a reevaluation of priorities and a yearning for self-sufficiency and independence from the fragility of our nation’s food supply system. Moreover, rising concerns about food security and sustainability have spurred interest in backyard farming and regenerative agriculture practices. Homesteading offers a holistic solution, allowing individuals to cultivate their own produce, raise livestock ethically, and reduce their environmental footprint. Desirable Features of Homestead Properties With the rise in popularity of homesteading comes increased demand for properties suitable for these activities. When it comes to homestead properties, size isn’t everything. In fact, smaller acreages ranging from 3 to 20 acres are in incredibly high demand, offering the perfect balance between manageable land and ample space for self-sufficiency endeavors. These properties often feature a mix of open fields, wooded areas, and access to water sources, providing the ideal canvas for aspiring homesteaders to realize their dreams. In western Illinois, there has been a steady and prominent increase in the values of well-cared-for, older farmhouses on smaller acreages, especially where serviceable outbuildings are included. They have outpaced most other Illinois real estate assets in terms of rapid appreciation since the 2nd Quarter of 2020. However, they remain affordable for many working-class budgets. Market Trends and Price Points In western Illinois, homestead buyers typically gravitate towards properties priced between $100,000 to $450,000, depending on location, acreage, and amenities. While this range may seem broad, it reflects the diversity of offerings within the burgeoning homestead market. With demand outpacing supply, particularly for smaller acreages, prices have steadily climbed in recent years. However, the investment is often seen as a worthwhile endeavor, offering not just a piece of land but a lifestyle centered around self-reliance and sustainability. Embracing a Homestead Lifestyle The homestead movement signifies a return to our roots, both figuratively and literally, as more people seek the fulfillment that comes from a self-sufficient, rural lifestyle. DO YOU HAVE MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT RURAL REAL ESTATE? – REACH OUT TO CHASE BURNS! If you are thinking of buying or selling a home on acreage, or a farm, this year, don’t wait! Contact Chase now to set up a consultation visit. Discuss your needs, desired timeline, and let him help you get the best deal. Contact Illinois Land Broker Chase Burns at 309-368-0370.   Stay Connected. Be sure to follow Chase Burns on Facebook and Instagram.
Written By Illinois Land Broker, Chase Burns. UNLOCKING TIMBERLAND VALUE As stewards of the land, many of us who own timberland understand the delicate balance between conservation and utilization. Whether you’re a seasoned landowner or considering dipping your toes into the world of timber management, understanding the current market trends and navigating the complexities of timber harvesting are essential for maximizing both financial returns and ecological benefits. Market Strength and Trends Recent indicators suggest that the hardwood market in the Midwest remains robust, with stable conditions forecasted for the first half of 2024. However, projections hint at a potential softening in the latter part of the year. Conversely, softwood markets are expected to see an upward trend. Notably, black walnut continues to command premium prices, surpassing other hardwood species by a significant margin. Global Influences The global timber market has experienced significant shifts in recent years, with geopolitical events playing a substantial role. Russian hardwood exports have plummeted following sanctions imposed due to geopolitical tensions, while Canadian wildfires in 2023 devastated vast forested areas. These factors, among others, contribute to an upward trajectory in US hardwood and softwood timber values. Understanding True Market Value Determining the true market value of standing timber requires expertise and precision. Enlisting the help of a reputable consulting forester is crucial. These professionals conduct comprehensive assessments, including species inventory, size measurement, and board footage estimates of marketable trees on your property. Their guidance ensures fair dealings and accurate valuation, safeguarding your interests. Navigating Challenges Timberland owners often face challenges when contemplating timber harvesting. Fear of exploitation by unscrupulous loggers and concerns about property damage post-harvest are common pitfalls. However, paralysis in decision-making can result in diminished forest health and missed financial opportunities. The Role of Consulting Foresters Reputable consulting foresters serve as invaluable partners in timberland management. They tailor strategies to align with your unique goals, whether focused on wildlife conservation or financial gain. From overseeing harvest operations to soliciting bids from licensed contractors, they ensure transparency and accountability throughout the process. Their supervision minimizes the risk of property damage and unauthorized tree cutting, empowering landowners to make informed decisions for sustainable forest management. Conclusion Unlocking the full potential of your timberland requires a combination of market awareness, strategic planning, and expert guidance. By partnering with a reputable consulting forester, you can navigate the complexities of timber management with confidence, achieving both financial prosperity and environmental stewardship. For those considering a timber harvest or seeking guidance on forest management practices, remember: knowledge is power, and with the right support, your timberland can flourish for generations to come. DO YOU HAVE MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT RURAL REAL ESTATE? – REACH OUT TO CHASE BURNS! If you are thinking of buying or selling a home on acreage, or a farm, this year, don’t wait! Contact Chase now to set up a consultation visit. Discuss your needs, desired timeline, and let him help you get the best deal. Contact Illinois Land Broker Chase Burns at 309-368-0370. Did this blog help unlock your rural real estate FAQ? Stay Connected. Follow Chase Burns on Facebook and Instagram.