What features add value to Homestead?

Hello!

We are thinking of moving in a few years to an even more rural, off grid place. In the meantime, we are looking at our home and thinking of what we might do to add value to it. I'm thinking if we work towards appealing to a specific population (such as permaculturists), it might sell better.

Currently, we have a few hundred acres in Texas with a one-bedroom home, a couple sheds/shop. Barb wire fenced for cows.

If you were looking for a future homestead, what features would make you say, "I want to see this place and find out more?" What would make you more likely to purchase it?

Home: Would a larger home plus a small mother-in-law home be valuable? What features are you looking for in a house? (# of bedrooms, insulation, storage, etc.). What about outbuildings, sheds, shops?

Land: What features would you be looking for in the land? Specific features of tanks/ponds? Specific features of gardens? Animal housing/fencing? Perennial trees?

Obviously we'd all love the perfect place from the get-go, but what are the few features that would really call you to in a potential piece of real estate? It can be little things (like a purple martin house) or big things (like a 3-bedroom house).

Thank you!

We moved to our land last year. My husband and I are both 58, so we try to ask ourselves the same question you are asking, since life isn't forever. :-)  I think having fruit trees established would be great. Maybe a rainwater collection or swales? Building a house seems like too much - if you're looking to appeal to a permie buyer, plantings and earthworks would probably be the thing that would make your place stand out. Just off the top of my head.

As Erica said established fruit trees.

I want to add having a pond is what sold me on where we live now next to having a shell of a house, water well, and electricity.

Having outbuildings such as a chicken house, loafing shed and a barn would be great selling points.

An established garden area with plants growing, a hoop house, and maybe a greenhouse.

I am looking forward to hearing other folks thought on what they would want.

Everyone will have their own thoughts on this.  I have come to believe that the owner should put in the features the owner wants.   As for me, I would want a 3 bedroom house.  A fireplace is a huge positive.  A good sized out building is important. I would regard an established orchard, root cellar, and good fencing as huge pluses. Oh yea, a good sized pond is nice.