I agree with laci.
The giant would be better...I give you a plan for 700 acres.

Giant Sage
House 128 19% 8960 population
Barck 281 40% 9240 Elit / Horse
Farm 85 13% 6885 bushels / round
Store 5 1% 118,48 rounds are covered
Fort 105 15% 5880 Archer (in fort)
Temple 75 11% 10500 Mages
Inn 1 0% 56 Thieves
Bank 5 1% 0
Smithy 15 3%
700 acros
Score: 32122 points

Consumed food: 6927,2 bushels / round
Employment: 91%


I think, you can loot with this troop, and you have to buy the metal for the training.