Lifestyle farm - beginners tips

4 posts

Member for

6 years 5 months
Last seen: 04/29/2018 - 14:25
Joined: 04/26/2018 - 06:59

Lifestyle farm - beginners tips

Hi guys, I am looking at purchasing a piece of land, about 3 or 4 hours out of Sydney as part of a retirement investment (for use when we retire in however many years it takes). Not that pushed in terms of size but want something at least 10acres. I am a total newbie to this and also was born and raised in South Africa, so do not fully understand any local rules, or laws. I am hoping this forum can help enlighten me on a few things: 1. What are the running costs of a lifestyle farm? So I know this depends on size and what buildings may be on the land, but are their any legal requirements to maintain land, cut grass or cut back trees etc? I will only be visiting as an escape from city life so won’t be there regularly. 2. How much does it cost to put a cottage on a piece of land, something simple like a 2 or 3 bed. Just looking for a range so that I have a better idea? Also how long does it take to put something up? 3. What is security like out in the country? If we had a building which we visited once every two months, would it be OK left there? 4. Any other starter tips or advice is very much welcomed!!? Thanks all! Shaka
Last seen: 12/26/2018 - 09:21
Joined: 05/31/2011 - 09:44
Hi Shaka, Welcome to the small farms forum, pleased to have you as part of the community. Regarding answers to your questions: 1) The running costly will largely depend on what you are doing with the land, your fixed costs such as rates, insurance will remain the same. As a land owner you have a legal obligation to control noxious weeds and ensure the farm has adequate strategies in place and equipment to control a bush fire. To keep in good with your neighbours it is a good idea to keep the grass slashed and the farm generally clean and tidy. 2) Probably best to contact a local builder or somewhere that does kit homes. 3) Security in the country is getting worse with crime on the increase due to isolation and absentee owners. At a minimum I would look at putting in motion detection cameras to keep an eye on your farm whilst you are not around. I hope this has been of assistance and I look forward to hearing how your farming journey progresses. Regards, Charlie
Last seen: 04/29/2018 - 14:25
Joined: 04/26/2018 - 06:59
Thanks Charlie!
Last seen: 10/01/2024 - 16:48
Joined: 02/28/2011 - 14:19

Hi Shaka,
 
I know its an old post, regarding your question of security, insurance will be a must particularly if you are an absentee owner.

To let you know that Farmstyle Insurance has recently launched an insurance product just for small farmers.

You can find out more and get a quote at
https://www.farmstyleinsurance.com.au/

It's been co-designed with the assistance of hobby farmers here at Farmstyle Australia, please DM them if you have any questions or require assistance.

Regards,
Charlie

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