What to Know Before Buying a Hobby Farm: Financing and Lifestyle Tips

Dreaming of owning a hobby farm? You are not alone. More and more Australians are trading city streets for open fields, fresh air, and the satisfying lifestyle that comes with a small farm. Whether you imagine raising a few animals, growing your own produce, or simply enjoying wide-open spaces, buying a hobby farm is a rewarding journey - but there are some important things to know before you dive in.

What is a Hobby Farm?

A hobby farm is a small property where farming is done for pleasure, not for full-time income. Think vegetable gardens, fruit trees, chickens, or a few cattle. It is less about running a business and more about living a rural lifestyle on your own terms.

Hobby farms can range from a few acres to larger properties that allow you to explore a variety of activities while still being manageable.

Things to Consider Before You Buy

1. Know What You Want Before you start looking, think about your goals. Are you interested in growing crops, keeping horses, raising livestock, or just having some land to enjoy? Knowing what you want will help you choose the right size and type of property.
2. Understand the Land Not all land is the same. Soil quality, water access, fencing, and the lay of the land can make a big difference in what you can do with your farm. It is a good idea to get advice or even a soil test if you plan to grow specific crops.
3. Check Local Zoning Rules Different councils have different rules about what you can and cannot do on your land. Before buying, check what activities are allowed, whether you can build additional structures, and what regulations apply to animals or farming.
4. Budget for More Than Just the Land Owning a hobby farm comes with extra costs — think water tanks, fencing repairs, sheds, tractors, or even simply maintaining the driveway. Make sure you factor these into your budget.
5. Financing Your Hobby Farm Financing a hobby farm is a little different from financing a home in town. Some lenders treat hobby farms differently based on land size, income potential, and distance from major towns..

Why Choose Lifestyle Loans and Lending?

At Lifestyle Loans and Lending, we understand the unique needs of rural buyers. We offer loans specifically designed for lifestyle properties, including hobby farms, acreage homes, and rural retreats. Our goal is to make your journey as relaxed and enjoyable as the lifestyle you are moving towards.

We take the time to understand your plans, your property, and your future, helping you find a loan that works - so you can focus on building your dream lifestyle.