Top 5 considerations when wanting to homestead.
So you want to homestead, what are the key considerations to take into account before you make the big move.
5/3/20243 min read
Moving from an urban environment to a rural homestead is a significant lifestyle change that requires careful planning and consideration. Here are the top 5 factors to consider if you’re thinking about making such a move:
1. Purpose and Scale of the Homestead
Before moving, it's crucial to define what the main function of your homestead will be. This will greatly influence many other decisions:
Growing Your Own Food: Decide whether you want to focus on vegetable gardening, fruit orchards, or both. Consider the climate, soil quality, and the amount of land necessary to sustain your household.
Raising Animals: If you plan to raise livestock, think about the types of animals (chickens, goats, cows, etc.) and their purposes (meat, milk, eggs). Each type requires different facilities, feed, care, and knowledge.
Self-Sufficiency Level: Determine how self-reliant you want to be. This could range from partially self-sufficient (still purchasing many needs) to fully self-sufficient (producing almost everything you need).
2. Water Source and Management
Water is a critical resource for any homestead:
Source: Identify reliable water sources, such as wells, streams, or lakes. Check the legal rights and water quality for each.
Storage and Distribution: Consider how you will store and distribute water across your property, especially if you need to irrigate crops or water livestock.
Conservation and Treatment: Plan for water conservation practices and, if necessary, water treatment solutions.
3. Energy Solutions
Deciding on your power sources is essential, especially in rural areas where grid reliability might be an issue:
On-Grid: Easier to set up and reliable, but you're dependent on the local utility company and susceptible to outages.
Off-Grid: Options include solar panels, wind turbines, or hydroelectric systems. These require a higher initial investment but provide independence from utility companies.
Hybrid Systems: Combining on-grid and off-grid power can offer flexibility and security.
4. Accessibility and Infrastructure
The charm of rural living often comes with the challenge of accessibility:
Road Access: Ensure the property is accessible throughout the year, considering challenges like snow or rainy seasons.
Proximity to Services: Consider how far you are willing to travel for healthcare, shopping, education, and emergency services.
Internet and Communication: Reliable internet might be crucial if you plan to work from home, stay connected with family, or manage a business remotely.
5. Legal and Environmental Considerations
Understanding the local regulations and environmental constraints is key:
Zoning and Permits: Check local zoning laws regarding farming, livestock, and modifications to your property.
Environmental Impact: Consider the impact of your activities on the local ecosystem. Practices such as regenerative agriculture can enhance soil health and biodiversity.
Community Relations: Engaging with neighboring farmers and rural residents can provide support and valuable local knowledge.
Additional Tips
Skill Development: Before moving, spend time developing skills that will be crucial on a homestead, such as basic carpentry, plumbing, animal husbandry, and gardening.
Financial Planning: Ensure you have a financial buffer and a realistic budget, as unexpected costs can arise in rural settings.
Trial Periods: If possible, rent in your chosen rural area to experience the lifestyle firsthand before committing to buying property.
Moving to a rural homestead can be a rewarding venture that brings you closer to nature and provides a sense of self-sufficiency. However, it requires thorough preparation and a willingness to adapt to a vastly different lifestyle than that of an urban environment.
