Buying a farm is one of the most exciting things that you can do, not least because it means that you can get in touch with nature and wildlife, you get to see the sun rise each day, and you also get to have your own plot of land, that you’ll just look at in awe every day.
In all honesty, there is no better job than being a farmer, and if you put the hard work in, you’ll soon be reaping the benefits of what you’ve sown (see what we did there?). We’ve put together a list of five things that you’ll need before you take the plunge!
1. Land
OK, this is a pretty obvious one. If you’re going to be a farmer, you need to have enough land to grow crops, or keep livestock. Choose a plot of land that isn’t too far away from where you live, where the soil is fertile and you will get a good return from all of your hard work. The quality of your land is everything, and it will define your success as a farmer.
2. Agricultural equipment
When the harvest comes around, you’re going to need some agricultural equipment to do the job properly. In fact, whatever type of farm you’re looking at purchasing, you will need some form of equipment, even if it’s just a tractor to get from A to B. Think about what would be suitable for you, and look at how much it’s going to cost you to purchase what you need.
3. Prior skills
Going straight into farming with no experience and expertise may work out for some people, but it’s pretty rare that it does. Whether you’ve worked on a farm in the past, you’re part of a long line of farmers in your family, or you’ve simply studied something agriculture-related before purchasing your farm, you need to know the score before you invest your time and money.
4. Financial backing
Farming is one of those things that will almost always secure you a profit, but to get into this field (OK, we’re done), you need to have some cash to make your dreams a reality. Whether you fund this yourself, or get a loan, you need to sort out your finances. Unless, of course, you’re one of the lucky ones who has a family farm that you’re going to take over!
5. Positive mental attitude
Farmers have to deal with a lot of stuff, from waking up every day before the sun rises, to always being on hand if any problems arise. It’s not an easy job by any stretch of the imagination, but it will be worthwhile when you’re seeing the fruits of your labor, and there is no job that has had such a long-standing place in society. Stay positive, and you’ll be glad that you kept going!
So, if you’re looking at getting into farming, make sure that you have these five things before you get your wellies on, and get stuck in. Enjoy life on the farm!
