In this Backyard Life video, homesteading pro Mike Morgan shares practical land usage strategies—many of which he practices to make money from his land. Here are 15 specific ideas the Outdoors With The Morgans YouTube host says you just might be able to utilize, as well.
Property Monetization Ideas
- Firewood sales. Mike notes that you don’t have to actually cut trees down if there are ones that have naturally fallen (i.e., from storms) on your property.
- Equipment jobs. Secondly, picking up side-jobs with equipment you already own and use on your property is a great way to help cover recurring costs like property taxes and/or insurance.
- Fossil fuel leases. First, be sure to do your homework to determine if oil or gas reserves on your property. (Mike has a non-surface lease, which precludes him from building roads, pipelines, etc. His gas comes from approximately 7,000 feet below ground, and provides a nice source of monthly income.)
- Hunting property leases. Mike says folks are always on the lookout for productive hunting land.
- Poultry products sales. Raising chickens is all the rave today, and selling their eggs is great way to earn some extra cash.
- Gardening. Likewise, fruits and vegetables that are grown can then be sold at either a farmers’ market or roadside stand.
- Airbnb: Building a small cabin—or renovating one already on your property—creates a homey, comfortable place to stay for passers. And, it’s a great alternative to a traditional hotel.
- Wedding venue: Although it would require a large initial investment (and some investor help), it would certainly pay off.
- Pet sitting and boarding: As long as you have—or create—a secure boarding area, this property addition will allow you to earn income, as well as teach children responsibilities (walking, feeding, and caring for the pets) and valuable life skills.
- Horse and goat rentals and boarding: In addition to being potential money makers, goats in particular help keep brush and other unwanted greenery under control. As long as you have a pasture area, boarding horses—or, even cows—could be a property monetization option, too.
- Campground: As with a wedding venue, this option would require an initial investment—and sweat equity—to make a reality.
- Pay-to-fish lake/pond: Ponds or lakes create angling opportunities that many outdoorsmen regular pay memberships to access. However, you’ll need liability insurance.
- Timber clear-cuts: Instead of just selling harvested tress as a source of income, it will also increase wildlife by creating better habitat. (Mike suggests doing your research to find a reputable company to handle the clear-cutting.)
- Boat/RV self-storage: Building covered and secured storage areas is an income homerun. This is especially true for folks that don’t have a place in their driveway or neighborhood to store them.
- Christmas tree farm: Finally, given ample land and growing conditions, this is a great seasonal income driver.
That’s it! Now that you have everything you need to know how to make money from your land, it’s time to start raking in the cash.
