I'd look into the investment possibilities before doing anything because if I thought I might sell it at some point, that would guide my next steps. For short term I'd put our camper there so we'd have a guaranteed getaway spot. From there I'd set awhile and think it all over, because that would be at least half of the fun.

Friends of ours did it like this-- while holding down good jobs in a big city, they bought a large, cheap parcel here. It became their weekend getaway, during which they built (all by themselves) a 2-story, year-round "cabin." When that was done enough to live in, they took jobs here. They hunt and garden that land, and are looking forward to a cozy retirement.

Since then the hubby has held the line on 9-5 work, while the wife has learned the real estate biz and gotten all her certifications. Now the real estate is starting to pay off, but she is smart and has also bought (cheap) a related small business for bread and butter income. Her overhead is nil. He'll hit retirement age before she does; they have planned all this well and with a very long view, BUT while having a good time "getting there."

~S~