It’s been more than 40 years since Oliver and Lisa Douglas moved from New York City to rural Hooterville. Today, urbanites are following their example by becoming hobby farmers.

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Tom Flanagan, president of the Indiana Alpaca Association, is the only member of the group raising the animals in Hancock County. The family farm is about a mile east of Fortville. PHOTO: Robert Scheer / The Star.

Tom Flanagan is president of the Indiana Alpaca Association. PHOTO: Robert Scheer / The Star.

Tom Flanagan raises alpacas on his Hancock County farm. PHOTO: Robert Scheer / The Star.

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Green Acres is the place to be

Moving out of a subdivision and heading to the country can be the realization of a dream to enjoy a slower pace of life. If you’re yearning for a wide-open space to raise livestock or produce, consider investing in a hobby farm.

The right agent

An area’s zoning codes must allow for a hobby farm. Before you start your search, find a real estate agent who is an expert in hobby farms. The agent’s knowledge and expertise are essential to your success.

“A Realtor makes sure that the property is allowed to have animals,” said Donna Younts, of Keller Williams Realty. “They know the rules of each county.”

Many times, novices don’t know all the details of farming, such as how much acreage it takes to raise enough vegetables or fruit to sell or how much pasture animals need. A good real estate agent who specializes in farm property will have a clearer idea.

Prepare to pay

It can be challenging for hobby farmers to find affordable property. Land in Madison, Henry, Boone and Shelby counties tends to be priced reasonably. The Lebanon and Sheridan areas are attractive, too.

“Hancock County is a wonderful area for a little hobby farm,” Younts added. “It is close to I-70 and is easily accessible.”

She recently took a prospective buyer to see farmland in Madison and Henry counties. Homes on 3 or more acres started at $110,000 — an affordable price considering the average subdivision home costs $150,000. A farmhouse might not be updated with modern amenities, but some buyers are willing to give up luxuries for the serenity of country living and a home for their animals.

Find the right farm

If you think you’re ready to trade city life for a pastoral place in the country, follow these steps for success.

• Pinpoint your desired area.

• Do some research to find the approximate cost of homes with farm acreage.

• Talk to a mortgage adviser to determine how much you can afford to finance.

• Check the zoning codes for the desired area.

• Search for available properties with the help of a real estate agent.

• Tour the farms to determine which one is right for you.

–By Mindy Weaver-Flask, for Custom Publications

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