Even if the are not giving you much cash flow, the appreciation play in great areas can be smart provided you can cover your monthly nut for a few years till appreciation does its thing. 

Poker is SUPER easy when you are staring at the nuts hand. 

We love to be outdoors (hiking, biking, fly fishing etc) which is why we’re searching for a farm area that would also be a good hub to adventure out of.

The problem with the Northern Neck is that there isn't much work outside of the Sheriff's Department, farming and the Omega fish oil plant in Reedville.

The Board decided there was excess money in a fishing derby account and transferred $500 out of it and into charitable fund.After contacting board president with my concerns.

Also enjoy sports, fishing, and flying.I am a recent graduate and work full time as a drone pilot for a utility company (enjoyed your TFR reference), have cash in the bank and no debt.

When people act nuts it's done.

I know every nut and bolt in every building.

You always want competition from a number of fish; not the only fish in the pond on the day you need a contract.This is not a state with high wage earners like NY/ CA/ DC, so even one additional line item can affect profit.

By contrast I live in a trailer park with my friend who drives me nuts most of the time.