When Henry Addison DeLand founded the city of DeLand, Florida in 1876, he imagined it becoming a center for agriculture. So it’s no surprise the surrounding area has thousands of acres of high-quality farmland, many of which are available for purchase today.
If you’re looking to acquire farmland, DeLand is one of the best places in Central Florida to do it. Not only does our subtropical climate allow for nearly year-round harvesting, but our area was also founded for this purpose. As a result, there are plenty of opportunities to purchase significant acreage in the area.
If you’re considering whether or not to purchase farmland in Central Florida, we’ll tell you all about the DeLand farmland market as well as how to go about purchasing the right property for you.
Availability Of Farmland In DeLand
If you’re wondering if DeLand has ample farmland available for purchase, the answer is yes. As of October 2022, there were more than a dozen farms and ranches for sale within 20 miles of DeLand ranging from 2 acres to 225 acres, according to multiple real estate websites. There are options available to purchase both farmlands with and without a ranch house on the property. Typically, the cost of farmland is anywhere from $4,000 to $12,000 per acre and varies based on the quality land.
What To Look For When Purchasing Farmland In DeLand
Just because there is farmland available, doesn’t mean it’s necessarily a fit for your specific needs. There are several factors you should consider before purchasing farmland, so you’ll want to make sure to sit down and do some research and planning. Here are some things to think through:
1. How Much Land Do You Need
It’s important to think through your goals and your overall business plan for the land. What type of farm are you looking to create? Will you be primarily harvesting crops, raising animals, or both? The answers to these questions can help you determine how much land in DeLand you actually need.
2. What’s The Quality Of The Soil?
It’s a good idea to evaluate the soil quality and understand the annual crop rotation on the farmland prior to purchasing it. The seller will likely be willing to disclose this information upfront; however, you can always request a soil analysis before closing on the deal. You’ll want to make sure the potential farmland is capable of supporting the crops and livestock you plan to grow and raise.
3. Consider The Water Source
Water will be critical to your farming operations, so you’ll want to understand the water source. Is the property irrigated? Are there water sources on the land? Water will likely be a major expense too, so you’ll want to factor it into your costs and business plan.
4. Understand Zoning And Easements
Local zoning laws dictate how a property can be used, so you’ll want to ensure the farmland is actually zoned for farming; otherwise, you’ll run into major issues with your local government down the road. You’ll also want to verify that no easements exist on the property. Easements allow third parties to use the land for a specific purpose. For example, an easement may permit someone living on a neighboring property to access their property via yours.
5. Who Owns The Gas, Mineral, And Wind Rights?
Just because you purchase farmland doesn’t mean you own any of the gas, minerals, or wind associated with the property. These rights can be severed from the surface rights and sold separately. If somebody else owns these rights on your property, then you’ll likely want to factor this into your decision as it may impact your ability to run or manage your farm in the future.
How To Purchase Farmland In DeLand
If you’re planning to purchase local farmland, we recommend starting by searching for a reputable real estate broker who knows the area well. A good broker or agent will be able to help you find the right property that meets your needs, while also helping you draft an offer and negotiate terms. They can also help uncover zoning restrictions, easements, or liens on the property. Land transactions can be complicated, so you want a real estate professional in your corner every step of the way.
If you’re looking for a land broker who knows DeLand better than any other firm, contact Palmetto Realty today. Our team specializes in land transactions, and we can help you find the perfect farmland today.