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Whether you’re looking to start a hobby or commercial farm, you’ll need a lot of space. However, size isn’t the only feature you must consider when hunting for land. Since you’ll be using the property in many ways, including growing crops, you will need to consider the viability of the natural features. If you’re unsure where to start when evaluating farmland for sale, it’s a good idea to grasp the essential features that farmland should offer.
Property Size
The land size needs to be sufficient for your farming needs! If you don’t have enough room for livestock, barns, horse stalls, equipment, crops, and crop storage, you won’t be able to create the farm you desire. Determine your needs on the farm and what you’ll use the space for. If there is enough room to host your farm with some wiggle room for any expansion in the future, then you’ve likely chosen a good spot in terms of size. If there’s barely room to fit what you need with no room for expansion, you may want to select another place, or you’ll have to downsize your farm.
Level Terrain
Uneven terrain can pose challenges for planting crops, moving equipment, and constructing farm buildings. While the land doesn’t have to be ultimately level, if it is too hilly or mountainous, you will have to pay a ton of money to adequately level the ground before building any structures. The terrain also affects how well the property will drain after rain and watering. You don’t want water to pool; the rainy season will wash out your crops and flood your farmland! Evaluate the topography of the property. Is it flat enough for your needs? Is it easily leveled to build any structures if necessary?
Healthy Soil
While you can improve the health of soil yourself, excessively toxic, dead soil can ruin the success of your harvest. If you can test the soil for any toxins or pollutants before purchasing, it’s essential. Soil shouldn’t be excessively rocky, either. You should be able to plant and improve the land safely; otherwise, the land isn’t the right choice. Healthy fertilizers, debris removal, and organic matter can improve a soil’s health after you purchase it. You can test the soil with home kits or at a Department of Agriculture office.
Water Access and Drainage
You will need access to water to irrigate your crops, care for livestock, and clean. You’ll likely want to hook the home to city water if you live on your farm property. Does the land have adequate water access through a well, the city’s water, or natural bodies? You will want to consider how easy it is to access water daily on the farm. Not all land has access to the city’s water system, but it should be easy to connect. You also don’t want water to pool and soak the land excessively. Oversaturating the land with water can drown crops and affect the soil’s health. Water should drain quickly. Drainage options shouldn’t be too costly or difficult to install if it doesn't.
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Climate
The earth shouldn’t be the only feature you consider when choosing land. Are you in the right location for a healthy farm? Determine your farm’s goals, whether livestock or a particular crop type. Certain crops don’t do well in certain temperatures. Learn about the land’s climate and compare it to your farm’s goals. Will the crops you’d like to grow thrive in the environment? What times of year can you grow crops? If you’re flexible on crop type, then you may be able to make most locations work. You'll need a particular climate if you want a specific kind of crop.
Surrounding Area
Your farm’s success may rely on the surrounding areas. Is there a large corporation polluting the water supply? Will loud trains pass by and scare your horses? Are gas lines in the soil causing you to limit your crop location? Evaluate what is next door and who will need access to your land before purchasing. While you can’t choose your neighbors, you can make a more informed choice by evaluating the surrounding neighborhood.
Zoning Laws
Local regulations, known as zoning laws, can control how land is used in specific areas. While farmland is usually allowed in most places, you can never be sure, especially if your land will be for commercial use. Ensure you understand local zoning laws for the land to ensure you’re permitted to do all you’d like with your farmland. Is livestock allowed? Is commercial farming allowed? What are the irrigation laws?
Conclusion
Before purchasing farmland, you will want to evaluate many aspects and features. Soil health, topography, water access, drainage, and surroundings are prominent features to assess. Zoning regulations may restrict how you can use the land. Be sure to consult with a real estate professional and any local farmers to gain their insight and opinion on the area. If competition will be an issue, you may want to determine how many other farmers are nearby. With an informed decision, you can set any farm up for success.
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