Plan for self sufficient into amazing retirement plan?

[Carla D]

I've read that having multiple streams of income is a good idea- so that if one dries up, you aren't left up the creek. I would think a combination of basic product (meat, eggs, produce etc) and value-added product (leather, wool, chicks, pickles and other canned goods) and maybe some other things like hand-spun yarn, or wooden furniture, or clothing, or soap and candles.

Barter is NOT dead; it's just laying low. My DH's family had an arrangement with a neighbor that was a beautician-- she came by once a month and cut everyone's hair (there were seven of them in all) and in exchange they raised a pig for her each year. The only money involved was that she paid for the cut and wrap of the meat since an outside butcher was used. I had a casual friend that let me stay in her time-share in the mountains (lakeshore property!) for a week and in exchange I did a spring-cleaning on the cabin (It only took 3 of the 7 days, so the other 4 were vacation)

Thank you for your suggestions. I have a huge list of things that can be made/crafted/sold. Some are quite unique. It’s not that I’d make all of them, but the list gives me options according to what I have available, what I might be in the mood to make, and market trends. I’d like to think I’ll have the chance try each and every one of them. But, probably won’t.

 

[sumi]

Farms are going out of business because they can’t make ends meet due to what creameries and processing plants are willing to pay for their milk.

And you know why? South American countries can sell them milk for the same price or less than they pay local farmers. So they hold the farmers hostage with that. Either they take the low price, or lose the market. In S.A. we paid up to R24,00 (roughly $2) for 2 litres of milk. The farmer got about 10% of that. And that was before the creameries took the cream off and diluted the milk with water to stretch it. It's disgusting. Whenever possible we bought raw milk directly from small scale farmers.

But then there is the hassle of trying to get nominal money from people who think you should generously GIVE to them because they are family. I bet that would be the quickest way to lose the farm.

Barter with them instead. Tell them to help towards the cost of keeping and raising the animals and birds if they want in, either by providing a service you'd otherwise have to pay for, or by buying feed. Make sure there are expectations laid out right at the start and that the deals will stop and if they are not met.

 

[sumi]

Did you think about keeping bees? They take little space and will pollinate any fruit trees you have you on the property. Honey is so useful around the house, stores forever without going bad and can be sold too.

 

[Carla D]

Did you think about keeping bees? They take little space and will pollinate any fruit trees you have you on the property. Honey is so useful around the house, stores forever without going bad and can be sold too.

I have thought about bees. They do come into play down the road as an optional thing to do. I’m going to post my plan and see if I can get anymore amazing input from people in here.

 

[Carla D]

I’m going to do something I maybe shouldn’t post something so personal. But I’m dying to know what a couple of other people think. Am I missing anything? Does anyone else think this is over the top? Input is greatly appreciated. Thank you

 

[Carla D]

Here’s the rest of my plan. I’d really love to know what a few other people.

 

[frustratedearthmother]

Are you planning an "on site" store front?

 

[Carla D]

Are you planning an "on site" store front?

Yes, probably a small shed located on the property. Something like this with a commercial refrigerator right on our property. Probably a small seasonal store, but possibly all year around.

 

[frustratedearthmother]

Cute idea! I guess a high-ish traffic area would be beneficial?

 

[NH Homesteader]

I can't see everything you uploaded because I have a cell phone and it's not cooperative at the moment! Have you looked into legal requirements in your state?I've always wanted to do something like what you're thinking but in my state I would need to truck my pigs to a USDA butcher to sell by the package, would need a food handlers license and to have my freezers inspected on occasion, all precooked foods would need to be cooked in a certified commercial kitchen... except jams and jellies (I think, haven't looked recently ). And dairy products have a whole long dramatic bunch of rules.

Not trying to be a downer, just thinking about logistics!