Farming full-time for income
Updated Sep 5, 2025
Seeking
- 11-50 Total acres
- 11-50 Acres of cropland or tillable land
- 6-10 Acres of pasture
- 6-10 Acres of hayland
Desired locations
New farmer seeking farmland opportunity in NC—vegetables, poultry, and sustainable crops.
Plan
I am a beginning farmer seeking to lease or purchase land near Charlotte to build a diversified farm focused on vegetables, poultry, and specialty crops. My goal is to grow high-quality produce for local markets, while incorporating sustainable and regenerative practices. Although I am new to farming, I have been studying farm business models, cash flow planning, and am committed to farming full-time as my primary income. I am eager to partner with landowners who value stewardship, hard work, and long-term farm success.
Desired infrastructure
Equipment and infrastructure details
I am seeking 20–50 acres of tillable farmland in the South Central or North Central regions, preferably near Charlotte. My primary interest is in growing conventional crops such as tobacco, with potential for diversification into row crops or pasture in the future. Irrigation access and a barn would be highly beneficial. I am looking for a lease (short or long-term) with the possibility of option to buy, to establish a sustainable and productive farming operation.
Preferred type of opportunity
Opportunity details
I am looking for a lease opportunity that allows me to gain hands-on experience with mentoring while building a long-term farming operation. My goal is to grow conventional crops, starting with tobacco and row crops, and expand into diversified production as the farm develops. A lease with option to buy is ideal, as I am committed to investing in the land and maintaining sustainable practices. I value guidance from experienced farmers and want to establish a productive, responsible operation near Charlotte.
Desired farming practices
Practices details
I plan to focus on regenerative and ecological farming practices that build soil health, reduce chemical inputs, and support biodiversity. While not immediately certified organic, I intend to use organic methods and work toward transitioning into certification over time. My goal is to produce healthy, sustainable crops and poultry while protecting the land for long-term productivity
Production goals
Goals details
My production goals are focused on row crops (corn, soybeans, and tobacco under contract) along with hay and pasture management for steady cash flow on leased land. I am also open to vegetable production for local markets to diversify income streams.
Long term, I’d like to scale toward poultry production under integrator contracts once I secure land and facilities suitable for houses. For now, my goal is to focus on profitable field crops and hay production on leased acreage, while building relationships with local buyers and exploring contract opportunities.
Farm experience
Years of experience
0 total years of experience
0 years employed as a worker (non-manager)
0 years as a manager
Education, training, and employment experience
Experience details
Self-directed training in crop enterprise budgets, farm business planning, and market research. Actively networking with local farmers and attending workshops to build skills.