Hi from Northern Michigan

I'm Maddy, from the Traverse City area. I'm 23 and don't have my own place yet but I'm eyeing a spot - I always wanted to move back into the old farmhouse I lived in until I was 9, which has changed hands a few times since my parents sold it. That house isn't currently available, but the lot across the road from it is.
For $60k I can get an acre and a half, bordered by a river and with a large pond just up the road. There is an old trailer home that needs to be removed; it likely has asbestos in the ceiling, hasn't been lived in for a while, and even then was a second/vacation home that wasn't maintained. I'm hoping that I can build a small house there, maybe make friends with the neighbors who live in the farmhouse, and eventually work out some sort of deal to have access to part of their land in exchange for help with their garden and animals.
I have my work cut out for me. I need a new job before I can even buy the place. Meanwhile my mom has been doing a lot of gardening to cope with the quarantine, and I'm trying to nudge her in the permaculture direction. Started a compost pile this spring, built some raised beds using recycled materials, etc. Little things, and doubt she'll ever go full permie, but at least I can help and build some skills myself for now.

Maddy, welcome to Permies! Sounds like you have a good possibility on your horizon. And it sounds like you have a good plan. All very exciting! It's really great that you can help your mom and start learning useful skills. Who knows, when she sees permaculture in action, your mom may come to appreciate it! Do keep us posted on your progress. And if you have questions, someone here will likely have help and encouragement.

Hi Maddy,

Your project sounds like a lot of fun.  I don't know if timing will work out, but if you need help with planning, gardens, or construction, please check out my earlier post: https://permies.com/t/149977/Time-BIG-Change-Seeking-Rural

Temporary arrangements could work depending on where I'm at at the time.

Best of luck,

Gregg

Hello, I bought 10 acres near manistee and love the area. I am getting established while camping. I have been collecting many different trees, shrubs, vegetables, and flowers. I could see trading labor for some transplants, seeds, or tubers at some point.

You could gain experience, possibly gaining badge bits for the PEP program, on my land before you find a place of your own.

I would also be open to trade my labor for something while you get started.

Welcome to permies. I have learned so much reading this site and the people here are helpful. You can get many different good suggestions or answers for your questions.