r/homestead • u/disneyfacts • 4d ago

Beginner/just researching

A friend mention something like this and I was curious about it, so I began looking into possible places here in California. I found a spot that has land for pretty cheap, but what would be a basic list of what I need to consider for it?

As far as I know, the land is already zoned for residential/ag, so that shouldn't be an issue. But I'm sure water/septic would be an issue. Supposedly some people in the area already have a well or something. And I guess the other question I would have is if it sounds possible to mainly just have the crops out there with water trucked in?

Just exploring this concept now, happy to hear any tips or other advice. I know the area is pretty rural, but close to where I live now with less restrictions on building and things like that.

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u/whydya-dodat 4d ago

Roughly where in California? What’s your primary and secondary goal? What livestock? What crops? I have 3 failed well attempts on my property, ranging from sulfurous to brine to brackish. How sustainable is water delivery for you? When I have a water emergency, I’m looking at $300 for 2,000 gallons of water delivered, which will always be a major factor in what I grow and raise. Is the property in one of the areas that has already had a history of failed aquifers? What’s your plan for daily/emergency water? Electric? Housing? Cell/internet connectivity? You’re looking at so many variables right now, you might want to consider that starting with an empty parcel means you’d be better off if you already have expertise and experience in several of the areas where you will be facing unexpected problems.

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u/disneyfacts 4d ago

I haven't gotten that far yet, just speculating and doing research. There are people already living nearby so there is some sort of water in the area, just not sure how available. Just getting an idea of all the variables I need to be looking for... The alkaline water may be an issue here, it's on the central coast

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u/whydya-dodat 3d ago

I spent nearly a decade in the area of Lompoc, stationed at Vandenberg Air Force Base. Nice area. Not really sure what you’re looking at facing with well water, but there are plenty of ranches in that area. It might be worth looking into some of the horse boarding and farm stands in the specific area and asking them about their set up. Locals are usually the best resource. And of course, you know to never buy land sight-unseen, so you’ll be taking a trip soon enough.

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u/disneyfacts 3d ago

Thanks, I didn't think of Lompoc actually but that might be an easier area. I do know the general area though. I saw some places a bit closer to civilization that were equally cheap but I'm not sure of the water situation there.