Just a quick thought that was important to us:
We seriously considered moving to Northern Scotland, The Hebrides etc, and I'm sure we'd have loved it there. However, whilst it's true that you can get a lot more for your money, there also aren't the same employment opportunities that there are in more populated areas.
So for us, since the bank won't take mortgage payments in the form of eggs, it made most sense to fork out a bit more for the smallholding, but buy somewhere still accessible for work in town. This means that we can enjoy the smallholding, but don't have to make it pay. (Don't get me wrong, I'm full of admiration for those who do, but I'm soooo glad we don't have to be in that category, as I think the stress would have killed me by now!!)