What Makes the Perfect Homestead?

Definition of the perfect homestead

So, what exactly defines the perfect homestead? What land features should you look for to build your dream homestead? The answer, my friend, depends on your individual goals and aspirations for your future homestead. To find the right property that aligns with your needs, the first step is to create a list of your homestead dreams. Let’s delve into a few questions to help you start brainstorming your needs.

Questions to ask when defining your perfect homestead

Are you envisioning open pastures for your animals? Do you dream of acres upon acres of flourishing crops like corn or other bountiful yields? Perhaps a serene pond is part of your vision? Maybe a sprawling garden or fields bursting with colorful flowers are what you’re aiming for? Could it be that you desire a blend of various elements? On the flip side, do you seek a smaller piece of land, manageable on your own, where you can grow your own food and tend to a few chickens to gather farm-fresh eggs?

Aspirations for our perfect homestead

Initially, being in close proximity to both our families, situated a few hours to the west, is a primary goal for us. Now, “close proximity” is a relative term, tailored to individual circumstances. Looking ahead, our aspirations encompass not only ample land, but also enough distance between neighbors and our house to preserve our privacy. We crave space to breathe, envisioning a spacious workshop, grazing areas for cattle, ample space for chickens, land to cultivate a thriving market garden, and even greenhouses to enhance our efforts. We’re committed to imparting a strong work ethic to our children, emphasizing the value of a simpler, more deliberate pace of life. In essence, our aim is to bolster self-sufficiency while instilling in our kids the importance of God. family. and community.

Key considerations for OUR perfect homestead

1. Proximity to Family: Within approximately 30 minutes
2. Land Size: 3 acres or more
3. Water Rights and Irrigation: Essential
4. No Restrictions: Absence of HOA’s or CC&RS
5. Building Potential: A reasonably flat area for future construction
6. Affordability: Within a reasonable price range for our budget

Steps to your create your perfect homestead

Remember, the perfect homestead varies from person to person. First, create your own list of priorities and arrange them in order of importance. Then, begin your market research long before making an offer. Understanding market trends helps you distinguish between good deals and those that fall short. Thankfully, my husband’s house-flipping business led to one of us obtaining a real estate license, and I had the privilege of pursuing it. Check out my website HERE. This granted me the ability to scour the market, monitor price fluctuations, rule out certain properties, and observe property behaviors over time.

Moreover, this journey emboldened me to venture into the countryside, knocking on doors to inquire about available land for farming purposes rather than development.

11 Key considerations for YOUR perfect homestead:

1. Proximity to Necessities: Consider your proximity to essential amenities like grocery stores, medical facilities, and schools. Striking a balance between a serene rural setting and accessibility to daily necessities is vital.
2. Acreage: Determine how much land you need for your desired activities, whether it’s gardening, raising livestock, or other projects.Your plans will guide your choice of acreage.
3. Zoning and Regulations: Research local zoning laws and regulations. These rules can impact how you use your land and the types of structures you can build.
4. Water Access: Access to a reliable water source is critical for both daily needs and sustaining your homestead’s growth. Assess water availability, quality, and the potential need for irrigation.
5. Soil Quality: Soil composition can significantly affect your gardening and farming success. Conduct soil tests to understand its properties and suitability for your intended crops.
6. Terrain and Topography: The land’s layout and slope impact drainage, construction possibilities, and ease of use. Consider how the terrain aligns with your goals.
7. Sun Exposure: Adequate sunlight is vital for plant growth. Assess the land’s sun exposure throughout the day and how it aligns with your garden or crop plans.
8. Legal Access: Ensure there’s a legal and practical access route to your property.Easements, roads, and existing pathways should be clear.
9. Natural Resources: Take note of existing natural features such as trees, water bodies, and potential wildlife habitats. These can enhance your homestead but also require careful planning.
10. Budget: Your budget plays a significant role in determining the land you can afford.Factor in not just the land cost, but also potential development, infrastructure, and improvement expenses.
11. Future Plans: Consider your long-term plans. Will you expand your homestead? Are you open to potential changes in the area’s development?

Relish the Adventure!

Embarking on the journey to find your ideal piece of land for your homestead is an exciting endeavor, but it’s essential to establish a starting point. While this list isn’t exhaustive, it offers valuable guidance as you navigate the land-search process. Keep in mind that your priorities may evolve over time, and flexibility is key. Life has a way of presenting changes and challenges, prompting us to adapt our desires.

Questions or comments? Please feel free to share them below!