Howdy from Central Indiana!

[mickeyd682]

I grew up on the edges of a small town. ¾ acre, surrounded by corn. 25 yrs later, I'm starting a try at homesteading. It's all new to me, my dad passed when I was a kid. Learned how to handle most home maintenance over the years, fairly handy with limitations.

We just bought 8 acres, it's pretty wooded. Knocked an acre down with a walk-behind 26" brushcutter. Think longterm I'll need better equipment.

Leaning toward a compact tractor or maybe something a little meatier. We should finish construction in a year. Anticipate I'll need to cut the brush 2-3x per year, and something to clear a path in the winter. I'll likely add chores as we go. Any tips on getting started appreciated.

 

[ArlyA]

Nice to have you here with us Mikey. We are looking to buy an acreage for the past year.

 

[CloverKnollFarms]

We are in Central IN too. Welcome

 

[part-time-Farmer-NC]

Welcome aboard. Lots of good info to be found on here and asked abroad too. Many situations are unique so don't be afraid to ask.

When looking at a tractor you should consider the implements you plan to use with it. Many are rated at min/max HP. Other things to consider are the terrain. If its hilly some tractors are better than others with stability. There are things you can do to improve stability like ballast and fluid filled tires.

Sounds like a bush hog would be in your immediate needs or consider a flail mower. I own both but the flail mower has an option to shift the cutting path 18" to help get closer to trees fence lines etc.

Another good thing to do it sit in a few different models as they ergonomics will feel different. Kinda like cars they all have some differences that appeal/repel our tastes.

While not all homesteaded plots need a front end loader I can't imagine life without one now. Grew up without one on the farm but now I use mine almost daily.

When starting out pick your own farm I try/tried to make it a one person show. Where I don't need to get help. My wife is not a fan of driving the tractor (oh darn... ) so I try and figured out what attachments can make it easier/faster to do the chores around here.

There is NEVER not anything to do on a farm, at least around here on this farm.

Wishing you the best on your endeavor.

 

[kenmbz]

Welcome to TBN and your new acreage.
How much do you want to clear?
How much to plant and what.
Make a list to start before you buy.
I have had lots of help from people here, so you're in a good place.

 

[gstrom99]

Welcome! Lots of advice/opinions on this site, for sure. Buy one you can afford (no weird off-brands and w/o taking a loan preferably). Be sure to get one with a loader and cat 1 three point.