If you’re thinking about starting a homestead, the first and most important decision you’ll make is where to put it. Land isn’t just dirt—it’s your foundation. And choosing the wrong piece of ground can turn your dream into a long, expensive uphill battle.
I’ve been running my small ranch for about ten years now, and I’ll tell you this: finding the right piece of land takes more than just looking for wide open spaces. You’ve got to think about soil, water, climate, legal restrictions, and how you’re going to live day to day.
So here’s a straightforward guide—what to look for, what to avoid, and how to make a smart, lasting decision.
1. Soil Quality: It All Starts Below Your Boots
Good soil is everything if you plan to grow your own food, keep livestock, or even just avoid drainage headaches. Test the soil before you buy—don’t guess. A simple soil test can tell you the pH, organic content, and whether it’s sandy, clay-heavy, or loamy.
What you want:
- Well-draining loamy soil
- Moderate to high organic matter
- Neutral to slightly acidic pH (for most crops)
Red flags:
- Rocky, shallow, or compacted soil
- Standing water after rain
- Soil that’s hard as concrete when dry
If the soil is poor, be prepared to invest time and money in amending it—or move on to better ground (USDA NRCS, 2020).
2. Water Access: More Important Than You Think
You can’t homestead without reliable water. Period.
Check for:
- Wells (depth, flow rate, and quality)
- Surface water (creeks, ponds)
- Water rights or usage restrictions
- Rain catchment viability (if you’re going off-grid)
Get a water test done early. Just because a property has a well doesn’t mean the water’s safe to drink—or that it produces enough for gardening and livestock (EPA, 2021).
3. Climate: Know What You’re Dealing With
Climate will shape everything—what crops you can grow, how you build, and what kind of livestock will thrive.
Consider:
- USDA Plant Hardiness Zone
- Average annual rainfall
- Temperature extremes
- Length of growing season
- Wind patterns and wildfire risk
You don’t have to find paradise, but know what you’re signing up for. Homesteading in the Arizona high desert is a lot different than doing it in the Pacific Northwest.
4. Legal and Zoning Issues: Read the Fine Print
It might feel like you’re living free, but the law still applies. Some areas have restrictions that can seriously limit what you can do on your land.
Check into:
- Zoning regulations (agricultural vs. residential vs. mixed use)
- Covenants, conditions & restrictions (CC&Rs)
- Water rights and land use easements
- Permits for wells, septic, and building
Talk to the county planning office and don’t trust the real estate listing alone. What’s allowed in theory might be a different story in practice (American Planning Association, 2018).
5. Access and Location: Remote Isn’t Always Better
Off-grid sounds good until your truck’s stuck in the mud 10 miles from pavement. Make sure you can reach your property reliably—especially during snow, floods, or fire season.
Think about:
- Road conditions (gravel, paved, easement access)
- Proximity to feed stores, vet clinics, hospitals, hardware
- Emergency services access
- Internet and cell signal, if you need it
Isolation can be peaceful—but it can also be dangerous if you’re not prepared.
6. Natural Resources and Livability
Look beyond just growing potential—think long-term living.
Look for:
- Sun exposure (for solar)
- Wind protection
- Natural tree lines or shade
- Elevation and slope (for drainage and views)
- Wildlife presence (both good and bad)
You’re not just building a homestead—you’re building a lifestyle. The land should fit how you want to live and work.
Final Thoughts
The “perfect” homestead doesn’t mean flawless. It means it’s right for you. Think about what you want to grow, raise, build, and protect—and choose land that gives you a fighting chance.
There’s no shortcut to making the right call, but if you do the legwork upfront, you’ll save yourself years of frustration. Ask questions, get tests done, walk the property a lot, and trust your gut when something feels off.
Start with solid ground—and everything else will have a place to grow.
References
American Planning Association. (2018). Zoning practice: Agricultural zoning. https://planning.org/zoningpractice/
EPA. (2021). Private drinking water wells. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. https://www.epa.gov/privatewells
USDA NRCS. (2020). Soil health assessment and testing. United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service. https://www.nrcs.usda.gov