What I Wish I Knew Before Starting a Homestead

Starting a homestead is one of the most rewarding decisions we’ve ever made—but if I’m being honest, it’s also one of the most humbling. When we first decided to trade convenience for chickens, and fast food for food forests, we were driven by dreams of simplicity, sustainability, and self-reliance. And while those dreams are still very much alive, there are a few things I wish someone had told me before we got started.

So if you’re dreaming of starting your own little piece of paradise, here are a few lessons we learned the hard way (so maybe you won’t have to):

1. Start Small. Really.

We had grand plans, and still do.—But trying to do them all at once, well- let's just say I would need to win the lotto. Chickens, bees, a garden, a composting system, rainwater collection, a barn... can't forget the sourdough starter on the side. Spoiler alert: burnout is real. Start with one or two manageable projects and build from there. It’s better to succeed small than fail big. We started with our "small" side garden, that sustained us for many years, until we expanded a few seasons ago.

2. It’s Not Cheaper at First

Homesteading can absolutely save money in the long run—but the upfront costs add up quickly. Fencing, tools, lumber, feed, soil and its amendments, and unexpected repairs (so many repairs). Budget more than you think you’ll need, and don’t feel guilty about taking it slow. But I will say, if you are handy and crafty, you can find a lot of good plans for reclaimed materials like wood and tin to make some pretty cool outbuildings and coops. It doesn't have to be Pinterest board perfect picture especially when you are just starting out.

3. Livestock Are a Full-Time Commitment

Those dreamy Instagram photos of fluffy chicks and content cows don’t show the 6 a.m. feedings, predator attacks, or messy coops. Animals are amazing, but they come with a learning curve—and real responsibility. They don’t take holidays off, even if you want to.(Thank God for family helping us so we can leave every once in a while)

4. Gardening is Both Art and Science

I thought I’d just stick seeds in the ground and harvest a bounty. Then came the pests, the grass, poor soil, more grass, wilting plants, did I mention grass? And unpredictable weather. Gardening takes patience, observation, and a willingness to fail and try again. But oh, when it works—it’s magic.

5. You Will Fail (and That’s Okay)

Crops will die. Animals might get sick. Your perfectly planned raised beds might flood - ask me how I know. Homesteading teaches resilience like nothing else. Each mistake becomes a lesson, and with time, those lessons turn into wisdom.

6. You’ll Never Really Be “Done”

There’s always another fence to fix, another project to try, another goal to work toward. That’s part of the beauty of it—but it can also be overwhelming. Learn to celebrate progress, not perfection. Also, try not to dive so deep, you burn out. This is something I still struggle with and I am taking steps to avoid. I may do a blog about that next.

7. Community Matters

Homesteading doesn’t have to mean doing it all alone. Some of the best advice and encouragement we’ve received has come from fellow homesteaders, local farmers, and online groups. Find your people—they’ll save your sanity. I really love Reddit for this, an online forum with tons of different topics from beginners to experts. The internet CAN be a good thing.

8. Your Definition of “Success” Will Change

At first, success might look like a thriving garden or a freezer full of homegrown meat. But over time, success becomes something deeper: the quiet joy of gathering eggs, the pride in fixing something yourself, the peace that comes from living with the seasons.

Final Thoughts

If you’re standing at the edge of this wild, beautiful journey—take the leap. Homesteading isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. Just go in with open eyes, an open heart, and a willingness to learn as you go. The land has a lot to teach us, and it’s okay not to know everything from the start.

Have you started your homesteading journey? What do you wish you had known? Drop a comment below or share your story—I’d love to hear from you!

Happy Homesteading, with love, Steph.