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Homesteading in Maine

By Mike Morgenstern

Real Estate Agent with Prudential Northeast Properties

February 06, 2007 12:27 AM

I have met a number of people who are heading "back to the land" and hoping to start a homestead. Having realistic expectations and a sense of what you truly need to accomplish this is key to success. I see the value in the independence and resourceful living on a homestead. Uncertain energy futures are just one reason to set up systems to take care of yourself, whether you grow food, harvest your own timber, or make your own energy from the sun, wind or water. When I counsel someone looking to set up a homestead, I advise them to identify the key needs that they have, and to look for a property that is particularly well suited to fill those needs.

For example, there is an ideal size of land for different needs. Many people would like to own 50 acres, but this may be too much land for certain situations. Of course, there is always value in owning more land, but the initial cost and tax burden of owning land suggests owning what you need and not drastically more. Every piece of property is different, but you may be able to predict the carying capacities for various functions of land in specific regions. Identifying the term of your plan, the amount of resources needed to follow through, and matching your property choice to that is the best way to go.

Different towns have varying degrees of scrutiny over useage and development in Maine. It is absolutely crucial to purchase land where your intended uses are legal. Examples of this include how many farm animals can be kept, if any, what type of industry may be undertaken, and many other zoning considerations. Please get the best advice about this by calling me to go over your case individually. (207-592-2420)

There is a wealth of land in Maine that is ripe for homesteading that is yet to be developed. Certainly if you are interested in homesteading in Maine, take advantage of my experience of creating my own off the grid homestead by giving me a call.

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Kathryn Crist

I am a young 63 and my husband 59. I and my husband would like to take what we have and move to a more remote home. We do not need alot of land. We are not well off. With our retirement and social security we are comfortable. I am in the process of selling our 130 yr old house in Illinois and we may just put our belongings in storage and hunt for a house. Why not, Maine...... Most of my family is from New England. I want a small home to work on and hopefully get off the grid. I have a garden each yr and what I don't can I freeze. Is there more information on homesteading that you could stear me to

Jan 06, 2011 06:57 AM

Jan 06, 2011 06:58 AM

Homesteading in Maine

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Mike Morgenstern

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