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Homesteading FAQs: Getting Started & Growing Your Skills

Answers to common questions about homesteading, raising animals, and even turning your skills into a small business.

Homesteading is a lifestyle focused on self-sufficiency. It often includes growing your own food, raising animals, and making household items like soap, cooking and baking your own food, and preserving the food you grow or make.

Absolutely! Homesteading is a great way to teach kids responsibility, teamwork, and life skills. Make projects age-appropriate to keep everyone engaged.

It doesn’t have to be. Start small with basic tools and materials you already have. You can grow over time as resources allow.

Chickens are often the first choice because they’re low-maintenance and provide eggs. Rabbits and goats are also good starter animals. That being said, I firmly believe that the best animals for you to start with are ones that you have the space, time and resources for as well as ones you will enjoy taking care of.

The amount of land you need depends on your goals. You can start on a small backyard or half an acre if you’re gardening and raising chickens. Larger-scale homesteading with livestock like cows can require several acres.

No, you can homestead in rural, suburban, or even urban areas. Many people start in smaller spaces like backyards or community gardens. In fact, I completely encourage you to start wherever you are. Learn new skills, bake some bread, grow a tomato plant on your porch.

Don’t try to do too much at once. Start small to avoid burnout. Also, avoid skipping research—learn as much as you can before starting.

Absolutely! Many homesteaders turn their skills into a small business by selling eggs, produce, baked goods, or handmade products. Before you start though, check your local laws and cottage food regulations, especially for dairy, canned goods, baked goods, and produce. Farmers' markets, online shops, and local sales are great options, but be sure to price your products to cover costs. With a little planning, your homestead can do more than just feed your family—it can bring in extra income, too!