Homestead Financial Mortgage
Hobby Farm Loans2026-09-02T10:07:29-06:00

Hobby Farm Loans

Dreaming of owning acreage, horses, or a small hobby farm? Hobby Farm Loans are designed for borrowers who want the rural lifestyle while financing properties that include agricultural land without operating a full-time farming business.

Hobby Farm Loans

A Loan Designed for More Than the House

A Hobby Farm Loan is designed for borrowers whose primary career is outside of farming but who want a rural property that supports small-scale agricultural activities. Whether that means more acreage, room for horses or livestock, or land with agricultural potential, this program offers financing designed around the unique characteristics of rural properties.

Purchase or Refinance
Hobby Farm Loans can be used to purchase an eligible property, refinance an existing mortgage, or provide permanent financing following construction.

Primary & Second Homes
Financing may be available for both primary residences and eligible second homes, providing additional flexibility for rural lifestyle properties.

Room for Rural Living
Eligible properties may include acreage, horses, small livestock operations, outbuildings, and other agricultural features, provided the property remains hobby-oriented rather than a full-time business.

Larger Loan Options
Loan amounts of up to $2 million are available within standard program guidelines, with larger loan amounts potentially considered on a case-by-case basis.

Downpayment requirements

Qualified borrowers may be eligible for up to 95% financing, depending on the loan amount, property, and overall borrower qualifications.

Credit and debt

A minimum 680 credit score is generally required, with debt-to-income ratios typically up to 39% or as high as 43% with qualifying compensating factors.

Property & Acreage

Properties generally range from 5 to 160 acres, with larger acreages considered case by case. The home and property should remain residential and hobby-oriented rather than a full-time farming operation.

Closing Costs

Seller contributions of up to 5% may be permitted toward eligible closing costs, helping qualified buyers reduce the amount of cash needed at closing.

frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between a Hobby Farm Loan and a Rural Home Loan?2026-09-02T10:04:20-06:00

Both programs provide financing for rural properties, but their intended uses are different. Rural Home Loans are designed for primary residences without agricultural income potential, while Hobby Farm Loans accommodate properties with acreage and small-scale agricultural activity or income.

Can there be another home on the property?2026-09-02T10:03:58-06:00

Yes. One additional residence may be permitted on an eligible Hobby Farm property, with up to two additional residences potentially considered on a case-by-case basis.

Can I refinance a hobby farm?2026-09-02T10:03:42-06:00

Yes. Hobby Farm Loans may be used for both purchases and refinances. Certain cash-out refinance options are also available, although how the funds can be used is subject to program guidelines.

What is a Hobby Farm Loan?2026-09-02T10:01:26-06:00

A Hobby Farm Loan is a mortgage designed for rural residential properties with acreage or small-scale agricultural activity. It’s intended for borrowers whose primary occupation is outside of farming and whose property is not operated as a full-time agricultural business.

How much acreage can I buy with a Hobby Farm Loan?2026-09-02T10:01:47-06:00

Eligible properties generally range from 5 to 160 acres. Properties with more than 160 acres may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Can I have horses or livestock?2026-09-02T10:02:19-06:00

Yes. Hobby Farm Loans can accommodate horses and smaller livestock operations. The program generally allows up to 50 head of livestock, provided the property remains hobby-oriented rather than a concentrated or commercial livestock operation.

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