The approval process for a homestead is typically quite cumbersome. It usually starts at the village level, moves to the town, and then to the county. Sometimes it requires coordination between several departments, such as land administration, agriculture and rural affairs, and natural resources. Li Xiang hadn't expected it to be approved so quickly.
Li Jinyu explained that it was likely processed so quickly because Li Xiang had just been elected village chief and party secretary. Plus, he was an internet celebrity, so all the town leaders knew who he was.
As for the village level, it went without saying—instant approval.
The county leaders might not know him personally, but they had likely heard of him. Since both the village and the town had already signed off, there usually wouldn't be any issues at the county level.
When the villagers heard the news, they were happy for Li Xiang, but they also couldn't help but remark that it really pays to be famous.
