Man, do I relate... Being a Libra, I always try to take my time to fully explore all options possible. From this objective point of view, I would stick to your heart's guidance towards a dream home and adapt accordingly (i.e. cut back on unneeded luxury as need be). A rental property is a good idea, but can also pose risks of unwanted extra costs and/or tenant issues as well.

If you can't find rough land with space between the trees to build, you may still be able to carefully transplant in the winter months the trees needed to build between. I don't say "carefully" lightly either, as I too very much love mature trees. Follow your intuition and spirit, and I doubt you will go wrong.