As you scroll through your favorite social media, you may have noticed the newest trend – returning to the land and starting your own homestead. As home prices soar, this dream feels impossible. However, there are options that will allow you to get started on your dream at a lower cost and in a shorter amount of time.
Starting your own homestead is an exciting journey toward self-sufficiency, sustainability, and a more hands-on lifestyle. Whether you envision raising livestock, growing your own food, or simply enjoying a simpler life, just getting started can be the biggest hurdle. Below we list one of the many ways to get started, by relying on a type of construction called post frame construction to build the heart of your homestead – your home and barn.
Post Frame Construction, or pole building construction relies on poles to support the building. This means less materials and cost than traditional construction while still resulting in a beautiful, sturdy building.
Heart of Homestead Quickstart Guide:
1. Finding the Right Property
The foundation of any homestead is the land itself. When searching for the perfect piece of property, keep these factors in mind:
- Zoning and Regulations Ensure the property is zoned for agricultural use and check local regulations for livestock, water rights, and building permits.
- Water and Soil Quality Access to clean water is vital for crops and animals, while fertile soil ensures successful gardening.
- Accessibility and Location Proximity to markets and services is helpful, but rural settings often offer more affordable land with fewer restrictions.
2. Building the Heart of Your Homestead – Buildings
Did you know that original homesteaders would build their barn before they built their house? Once the barn was constructed, they would sleep in the barn until their home was ready to live in. That option is available today, thankfully with modern conveniences that make you forget you are sharing a building with farm equipment.
Combining a residential space and a workspace within a pole building is a smart way to optimize space and functionality on your homestead. Another option is to have two post frame buildings – a barndominium and a pole barn.
Whether you decide to build these as one building or as two different buildings, this method will get you on your property and homesteading faster and for less money than traditional building methods. All you need is:

Barndominium: Your Home and Workspace
A barndominium is a wood-framed building that provides a completely customizable home with all the comforts we have come to enjoy.
- Cost-Effective: Building a barndominium is often cheaper than constructing a traditional home.
- Durable and Low Maintenance: Metal siding and roofing are resistant to weather and pests.
- Customizable: Interior layouts can be tailored to include open living spaces, home offices, or canning kitchens.

Pole Barn: Shelter for Livestock and Supplies
A pole barn provides essential shelter and storage for your farming operations. Here’s how it contributes to a successful homestead:
- Livestock Housing: Create comfortable stalls for animals, ensuring protection from the elements and predators.
- Feed and Equipment Storage: Keep hay, grain, and tools organized and dry.
- Workshop Space: A dedicated area for repairs and farm-related projects keeps your operations running smoothly.
Ready to Start Your Dream Homestead?
Starting a homestead with a barndominium and a pole barn is a practical, efficient way to achieve self-sufficiency. This combination provides comfortable living, secure storage, and shelter for animals. With careful planning and the right property, you can build a thriving, sustainable homestead tailored to your vision.
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