Raw Land - Building Process

I'm considering purchasing around 3 acre of raw land for a high price (due to location from town and my eagerness to finally have my own decent piece of land).

I have time on my hands as I am in my early 20's, but I would also like to be very methodical and efficient with my labor so that I could live on the land as early on as possible.

I'm almost certain the building inspector here will not approve of me building a 'shop/garage' and living in it and then building the home. However, I am hoping I am allowed to build a garage for 'storage purposes' before erecting a house foundation and such. Once again, that may even not be permit-able. I have asked and am awaiting a response. My idea is that what isn't all defined won't hurt anyone as long as I keep a level head. This means, perhaps I would like a garage first if I can get the permit for it...and then once it's enclosed I may decide I want to include a bathroom...and maybe a little area for lounging, who knows maybe a little kitchen area? It's just a garage, though... I see nothing wrong with wanting a bathroom with plumbing features in a garage/shop building. The other parts would not be put in until after the sawdust settles. This may be a shot in the dark if I am not approved to have a garage before a residence on the property.

Anywho, I was wondering what suggestions you all have. This land is *raw* land...meaning it needs a lot of work. It is filled with several 15-20' dead elms, prairie grass, and it slopes gradual for about 200' and then stronger slope for the next 200'.

I would need 1.) electricity installed 2.)a decent entryway over the road-ditch and driveway 3.) a well drilled 4.) a septic system if I have a bathroom for the garage...otherwise it would come later on. the well is needed almost first thing so I can start my little orchard and windbreak/shelterbelt. once these 4 things are installed I could begin to think of the location of garage and house.

These 4 things plus the land will cost an easy $40,000 - The land is over half that cost to give a general idea.

Comments? Questions? Reassurance? Criticism? I'd just like to hear those who have experienced this...and their story. It is a very big purchase for me that I don't want to regret.