DO YOU WANT TO BUY A FARM?

🏡 So You Wanna Buy a Farm?

If you’ve been daydreaming about ditching the chaos of city life and getting back to basics on your own slice of land — you’re not alone. The dream of building a self-sufficient homestead or small farm is growing stronger every day, especially as prices climb and food quality declines.

But let’s be honest — buying rural land for the first time can feel bloody overwhelming.

Here’s a practical guide to help you navigate the ins and outs of buying rural property. From financing to fencing, we've got you covered.

💰 The Financial Side of Buying Land

Budgeting for Rural Life

It’s not just about the price tag on the land. Think long-term.

You’ll need to factor in:

• Legal fees and stamp duty

• Property taxes

• Maintenance costs (hello, busted fences and muddy driveways)

• Infrastructure upgrades (like water tanks or solar panels)

Build a budget that covers more than just the purchase price — this is your foundation for the future.

Financing Options in Australia, the US & UK

Let’s break it down by country:

🇦🇺 Australia
Look into the Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee — it’s designed to support folks buying in rural and regional areas. Some lenders also offer specific loans for hobby farms or lifestyle properties.

🇺🇸 USA
Check out the USDA Loan Program — a popular option offering low interest and little-to-no deposit. Many lenders also cater to rural or ag loans.

🇬🇧 UK
Explore Agricultural Mortgages from banks or niche lenders. There are also grants like the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) if you plan on using the land for farming or conservation.

📝 Hot Tip: Compare interest rates, check eligibility for grants, and always read the fine print!

🌾 Is the Land a Good Investment?

Think beyond today. Ask yourself:

• Is it near a growing town?

  

  Does it have water access?

• Can you sell produce roadside or at nearby markets?

Also consider its farming potential — quality soil, space for animals, and sunlight matter more than you’d think.

🚜 Infrastructure Must-Haves

Road Access

Can you get to your land in all weather? Unmaintained roads become a nightmare in wet seasons. Find out who’s responsible for road maintenance.

Water & Power

• Does the land have a dam, bore, well or rainwater tanks?

• Is there electricity available?

  

• Want to go off-grid? Solar or wind systems could be ideal.

Always check water rights and quality — not all water is drinkable or usable for crops.

Septic and Waste

No sewer system? You’ll need a septic tank or composting loo. Don’t forget to check if bin collection is available or if you’ll be making dump runs yourself.

🐐 Is the Land Ready for Homesteading?

Soil Quality & Layout

Planning to grow veggies or run livestock? Test the soil. You’ll want:

• Good drainage

• Low salinity

• Decent organic matter

Flat land is great for market gardens. Slopes? Perfect for grazing animals.

Fencing and Boundaries

Existing fences? Awesome — just check their condition. No fences? Budget for them early. Also,

double-check your property boundaries to avoid neighbourly dramas later on.

Legal Stuff You Can’t Ignore

Every area has its own zoning rules. Check:

• What you’re allowed to build

• How many animals you can keep

• Whether you can run a small business or farmgate shop

Don’t sign anything until you know the land suits your plans.

🌻 Final Thoughts

Buying rural land is more than a treechange — it’s a lifestyle shift. It can be rewarding, healing, and downright awesome... but only if you go in prepared.

Take your time. Ask questions. Plan your setup properly.

Because at the end of the day, whether it’s chooks in the backyard or cows in the paddock, this move is about taking back control and building something real.

And hey, if you ever need help figuring out where to start, you know where to find me 😉