Building Your Homestead: What to Know Before Buying Acre+ Property

Intro:Owning an acre-plus property is more than just buying a piece of land—it’s buying freedom. Space to stretch out, build the home you want, and live life on your terms. For some, that means planting fruit trees and a sprawling garden. For others, it’s raising chickens, goats, or bees and cutting ties with the grocery store. And for many, it’s simply the peace of knowing your kids and pets can run safely without bumping into a neighbor’s fence.

The benefits are undeniable: privacy, self-sufficiency, and the chance to create a lifestyle that aligns with your values instead of cookie-cutter subdivision rules. Acreage gives you options, and options are power.

But here’s the reality: building on larger parcels is a different animal than a typical suburban lot. The opportunities are tremendous—but so are the pitfalls.

1. Location Isn’t Just About Commute—It’s About Functionality

When evaluating an acre-plus property, it’s not just about where it is on the map. Consider:

• Zoning laws: Not every municipality allows chickens, goats, or expansive gardens. Some even restrict outbuildings.

• Soil and drainage: You can’t homestead on poorly draining clay. Soil tests can tell you whether your land can support crops or livestock.

• Access to water: Well, municipal, or both? A reliable water source is non-negotiable for homesteading.

2. Infrastructure Costs Are Higher Than You Think

Raw land looks cheap on paper, but infrastructure adds up:

• Septic vs. sewer

• Utility hookups or need for solar/wind backup

• Driveway installation (longer drive = higher cost)

• Barns, sheds, fencing—all non-optional if you’re serious about homesteading

Many buyers underestimate these costs and end up over budget before the house is even framed.

3. Designing the Home for Acreage Living

Acre+ homes aren’t just suburban floor plans dropped on big lots. They need to be designed with function in mind:

• Mudrooms: You’ll track dirt, hay, and mud—plan for storage and cleanup.

• Storage: Pantries, root cellars, and freezers become essential for food preservation.

• Energy efficiency: Larger lots often mean higher utility costs; designing for efficiency upfront saves long-term headaches.

4. Think Long-Term: Resale and Community

Building your dream homestead doesn’t mean ignoring resale value. Not everyone will want chicken coops and massive gardens when you decide to sell. Aim for improvements that add both lifestyle and market value. Also, homesteading can be isolating. Look into communities of like-minded homeowners, local farmers’ markets, or extension programs—support matters.

Conclusion: Buying and building on an acre+ property can be the foundation of a sustainable, rewarding lifestyle—but it requires forethought and discipline. If you’re serious about homesteading, start with the land, confirm your zoning, plan for infrastructure, and design a home that fits the reality of acreage living. With the right guidance, your homestead can become not just a home, but a legacy.

I am a realtor that is part of the homesteading community. Let me know if I can help you find your homesteading site. JakeKilts.com