Check sites like Zillow, Trulia, Redfin, and local real estate agents for listings with 10+ acres and land use specifications. Drive around areas of interest as well. Consulting a specialized real estate agent can help find qualified properties that may not be listed on the MLS.
Contact the town hall or consult municipal codes to understand ordinances related to agriculture, livestock, and other typical homesteading uses before purchasing land.
Key factors include available land, cost of properties, zoning laws related to agriculture and livestock, and access to amenities like grocery stores and hospitals.
The biggest benefits are the relatively low cost of living with a shorter commute and more amenities compared to nearby states, abundance of land and space in many areas, and the presence of tight-knit rural communities.