Four Things to Think About Before Buying an Acreage Property

There is something wonderful about living in the country. The fresh air, the wide open spaces and the ever changing views that each season brings are more than enough to convince many home buyers to head outside the city.  If you are considering moving to an acreage property, there are a few important things to consider that may not have crossed your mind.

Everything is bigger in the country.  Be prepared for the maintenance that goes along with living in an oversized lot.  The lawn will take longer to cut, you will need more mulch for the garden, and landscaping will be an extensive (and possibly never-ending) project.

Everything will be farther away.  Coming from the city?  You have probably gotten used to the conveniences of the mall and grocery store just a few minutes away.  Forgot to pick up something on the way home?  No problem, the store is right there.  Not so in the country.  You will learn to strategically plan your shopping trips so nothing gets left behind.

Home inspections go well beyond the structure.  In a typical buying situation, you would hire a home inspector to take a close look at the house and assess the condition and lifespan of its most important features.  Inspections look much deeper in a rural property.  What is the condition of the well?  Is the water safe to drink?  Is the septic tank and field in good working order?  All of these things will have a huge impact on your quality of life out in the country, so be prepared to do your homework before making a purchase.

Price isn’t necessarily related to the size of the lot.  Buyers will certainly pay a premium for an acreage lot, but a property that is double the size isn’t necessarily double the price.  After a few acres, the value of the listing is far more dependent on the location, views, and of course of the condition of the home.

Despite the drawbacks, it’s no surprise that so many people love country living.  After a busy day at work, there is something so relaxing about unwinding far away from the hustle and bustle of the city.  By asking the right questions and knowing what to expect, you can make a purchase you feel confident about.