So, you want to build a homestead?
You want to live a self-sufficient life?
You want to get off grid?
Sounds great! I mean living off the land, really putting in the work for your home, your family, and your life in general, what could be better?
The question is, will the property you want work for all your needs and everything you want to get out of it?
There’s a lot to consider and you want your property to work for you. No matter what, it’s going to take some real work and sweat, but if the property can be a little more ready for you, a little more right, the less sweat you have to spill.
Here’s a few questions for you to consider.
How Far is it from the Nearest Town?
While part of the point of getting off-grid is to get away from the city, from the hustle and bustle, from the people, you still need supplies.
You don’t want to be too far from town for occasions when you do need essentials, if you’re running out of gas, if there is an emergency.
You may want to be close enough where one tank of gas can get you there just in case you’re running out!
Consider this in your search for the perfect property.
Are There Any Zoning Restrictions, Covenants, or an HOA?
We have talked about zoning and restrictions before. Everyone knows about them or at least has heard of them.
They are the thing everyone dislikes.
What you want to be sure of is that the property allows for everything you want to do. A property may be pretty off the main road, but may still be considered residential. In which case it’s very unlikely you can do much farming or agriculture at all. No farm animals, no kicking up dust.
You don’t want to go to dig a well or install your septic and find it’s not allowed or alternative systems are required. You want to know all the facts before you make that jump.
If you want to read a little more about zoning, check out another post we have here.
How are the Neighbors?
This is something you should consider no matter where you’re moving.
How are those neighbors?
You may not feel comfortable walking up to their home and talking with them, but just take a look at the surroundings of their property.
You can base a little bit off of what you see. If they seem to have it together on their ranch or homestead, hopefully they’d turn out to be a great neighbor who could help you in a pinch. Maybe pull you out of the mud or even help with a project or two.
If they have a lot of trash, random items all around, unmoved grass, things like that, maybe they might not be the greatest neighbor in the world.
It would be better to get an idea by talking to them, but if you are just doing a quick judgement, you may consider those tips.
Is it Big Enough for Your Goals in the Future?
You may find a property that has everything you want to start out, but what about your future goals?
Is there enough room for any future plans that you may not be interested in pursuing initially but would really enjoy in the future?
You can’t bank on the possibility that a neighboring property will want to sell in the future. So always be sure that the space you need is what you get from the get go!
Final Thoughts
There are so many more questions to ask yourself prior to purchasing your homestead property. It’s such a big decision and a big job to complete.
It will take you a lot of time and effort to get things exactly how you want them. It is easy to get a little antsy and want to jump the gun and purchase, but in the long run, you’ll be happy you did the research and thought out every aspect before purchasing your dream property!
