Fertile Minds: How to find your first farm tenancy

There’s a lot to think about when applying for a farm tenancy – the TFA tenancies workshop at Farmers Weekly‘s Fertile Minds event offered pointers.

If you get knocked back at first, don’t give up, says TFA adviser Katy Fox. Assess what went wrong so you can improve your next application.

Her top tips for first time farm tenants were:

  • Be honest with yourself – tenancies aren’t for everyone – don’t underestimate how much hard work running your own business will be
  • Be open-minded about location and tenancy type – be prepared to move
  • Build a good track record and develop good working relationships – get a business account, work with other agricultural professionals – you’ll need references
  • Put your feelers out – let people know you’re looking for a tenancy Build friendships with local people – they might help when you move in
  • Check for tenancy opportunities advertised on the TFA website members’ area – www.tfa.org.uk
  • Understand the costs you’re letting yourself in for, particularly if taking over a rundown farm. Consider what you want to invest if the tenancy is short-term
  • Do your research – drive around the area, speak to neighbours, find out who the contractors are – but take things with a pinch of salt
  • Understand your landlord’s priorities and business
  • Plan for what you’ll do when your tenancy ends.

More on this topic

See more news from the Fertile Minds event