Small farms in MA? (Boston, Worcester: houses, buy, theater)

[berry987]

We are looking to relocate to MA and buy a small farm (8-12 acres, just for goats, chickens, etc.). We would like to be somewhat close to a small town with something going on (some cultural events, restaurants, etc) and preferably with good schools. Does anyone have any suggestions?

[scarletfire]

Do you have a rough idea of price range you're looking for? Are you looking for just raw land or a house on the same lot?

[airedaly]

With land being so expensive in Eastern Mass., Western Mass is a good option. There are some really nice towns west and northwest of the Amherst area and many small farms in the area. Living near the five-college towns is good because of the cultural activity. Amherst, Northampton are nice towns.

[surfingatwork]

don't forget to look at southeastern mass for farm land. (Lakeville, Middleborough, dighton, berkley, assonet, freetown, etc.)

[berry987]

We wouldn't want to spend more than about $450K for the house and land.

[scarletfire]

In Western Mass, you could check out Sturbridge. The schools are considered good for the area and you can get way more for your money there than towns that are closer to Boston. I have seen nice farm properties a little closer in (in Berlin and Grafton) but more around the 500s.

[litlux]

Real Western Massachusetts is the Berkshires and there are both farms and cultural activity in the area, and $500,000 would buy a lot more than anywhere else in the state. Think the corner of Massachusetts near the borders of Vermont and New York. The Local Foods movement is starting to gain steam, and there are a dozen farmers markets in the area for any extra produce you may have.

There are world class museums, theaters and historic sites as well, and some of the towns have really fine school systems. Boston is 2.5 hours away via Route 2, and Albany is 1 hour. Jobs are erratic, though, but since you did not mention it, I should mention that being self employed is a help.

If you like the idea of a farm with chickens and a few other animals, look at this one where I get my milk and eggs:

www.cricketcreekfarm.com/?page=home

For an idea of culture, visit this site:

http://www.berkshirefinearts.com/sho...tegory=opinion

I am writing the Holiday Preview for them which will appear in a few days... There is tons of activity for children, too.

[smarty]

Originally Posted by berry987

We wouldn't want to spend more than about $450K for the house and land.

I agree with other in terms of where to look... for the price, many houses less than 1 acre within Rt95 or even Rt495 cost more. I suggest towns bordering CT, NH, VT or west of Worcester.

[willdufauve]

I have a 3 acre goat farm in an excellent location with renovated cape house in Franklin County I'll sell you for $200K.

The goats included. Want pics?