This month is National Homeownership Month and those looking to build a home could experience small town living at a big discount. Onaga has started a free land giveaway in hopes of attracting more people to the town. 27 news reporter Kia Carter has the details of this distinctive deal.

These Onaga residents are looking out across Heritage Springs, a soon to be development that may revitalize the city with free land for anyone who wants to build a home.

"It’s a wonderful place to live we believe with the free lots we'll attract attention and show people the value of living here," says Lois Loucks, Tri-Cities Economic Development.

Ten free lots, half an acre in size, were up for grabs, but now there's nine because one's been snatched up by a renter looking to own.

"You can't beat living here. It's like small town America the way it was back in old days where everyone knows everybody, you don't have to lock your door at night and there no crime. With all the shootings going on I wouldn't raise my kids anywhere else," says Chad Abitz, who bought the first free lot.

Onaga says it's giving away all this land to help the community stay alive.

"You must have a population base to support the hardware store, the grocery, and pharmacy, the things we have in town. We must ensure that we don't decline to where it's not economically feasible to have those businesses," says Loucks.

The conditions are that homes built here must be at least 1,100 square feet, have a basement and an attached garage. The property owners must also live on the land for ten years, but that comes with a special 10 year tax abatement.

"That'll save me about $9,000 or $10,000 in my taxes over the next 10 years," says Abitz.

Heritage builders will build the homes on the lots. The company admits this venture is a bit of gamble, but it believes the community of 700 will grow.

"We see prospects for Onaga. A lot of small communities die out but we Onaga has a lot of pride and with the hospital we figured they're one of the ones that's going to survive," says Ron Dechant, Heritage Builders Co-owner.

And prove some good things do come free.

Not only is the land free, but there are no special taxes for utilities because the city is installing them. The first lot sold will start building in January. For more details on the free land you can visit our website at ksnt.com and click on 27 news links or attend Sunday’s Women's Day Out at the Ramada Inn.