Timmy Clark

James Whitelaw wrote:Become familiar with the USDA Soil Map, study the different types of soil on available land including nearby farms

Haunt Landwatch and Zillow to see what is available

Consider agricultural tax exemptions and how they work in your target state. While raw land may be the optimum objective, buying a property with an existing structure such as septic and well can represent considerable savings, even if the structure needs replacing. Land with an Ag exemption can represent a considerable savings in property taxes on otherwise valuable, productive land.

Use Google Earth to study the terrain of any prospective, measure distance and areas. Use Google maps to map travel distances to necessary infrastructure such as stores, hospitals, schools, fire stations, potential markets to inform your decision.

Consider once you have decided on an area to work with a realtor familiar with the area. Can be a good source for information regarding areas that otherwise would be hidden and can help navigate local laws and regulations involved in buying land. Unfamiliar w/ Maine rules, but often a broker can be hired for a nominal sum (like 1 $) and profit when the land is purchased. Realtors knowledgeable on and specializing in land can be hard to find, but I suspect they exist in Maine.

Once you have narrowed your search to a specific area start studying the history of the area, natural disasters, 100 year floods, watersheds, crime, etc. to help inform your decision. If the town has online records of meetings on zoning, etc., can be invaluable.

That is just a few ideas off the top.

This was very helpful thank you!

Joylynn Hardesty wrote:Welcome to Permies Timmy!

I don't know the area myself, but is Thorndike far enough south for you? Take a look at this place for sale by a fellow Permie.

Hey Thanks! Sadly I still have a while until I have the means to make the big move (almost done with my degree!) but this is a great tip if it's still around in the future. Thanks again!

Hi all,

I am in the process of looking for land to start a homestead in southern Maine, but I have become overwhelmed with the complexity of deciding on an area and finding a place. Does anyone have any recommendations on counties/towns that are 1) on the cheaper side of land prices 2) don't have many restrictions or laws in place that will make it difficult to set up and unconventional way of life 3) have a strong agricultural/homesteading community?

Any help or tips you can provide would be wildly appreciated as I feel a little in-over-my-head with this.

Thanks.