Sure, we can't run to the store every time we need something, but that in itself saves us money. We do a major shopping trip once a week and the only thing we may need during the week is milk, bread or water (we do not drink the well water, although I'm quite sure it is fine to drink).
The only part of our acreage I don't care for is the fact it is along a busy highway. We are hoping to change that soon, as we have our sights set on a couple of places closer to hubby's work (cutting the drive in half would be nice). Both acreages are miles off of any highway and one can actually enjoy the sounds of nature without the interruption of traffic.
For those of you who are considering a move into the country (or a move to another rural location), the list below shows you what you should look for:
- Convenience - how close is your prospective home to the nearest town/city?
- Accessibility - for those who live in harsh climates (winters with snow), how will you get to work (if applicable) when there is a blizzard? Is the adjoining road a priority when it comes to snow removal, or will you be snowed in for days? Tip: school bus routes are usually maintained better than roads without bus traffic.
- Utilities - does the property have all of the utilities necessary for comfortable living, or is it something you will have to install? Electricity, fuel source for heat, telephone, internet access, satellite TV/radio, water source (well) and septic system are all things you should be considering.
- Residence - if you are buying a property to move into, what is the existing house like? Is it big enough to accommodate you, your family and your possessions? Does it have a lot of natural light? Which direction does it face?
- Fencing - for those of you who are existing animal owners, is the fencing adequate? Will you have to install animal pens and paddocks before you move in or will the existing fencing suffice?
- Size of land parcel - how much land are you going to need? Do you see yourself being happy with only a few acres, or do you want a larger parcel? What are your intentions for the land? Animals? Garden? Hay fields? Crops?
- Barns and outbuildings - does the property have existing usable barns and/or outbuildings or will you have to build some? This is an important factor if you own or are considering purchasing livestock.
- Lighting - are there existing yard lights or will you have to install them?
- Water source for livestock - is there an existing water source (natural pond, dugout or well)? If not, how will you provide the livestock with water?
- Windbreak - is there an existing windbreak or will you have to plant one? If living in climates with cold north winds a windbreak is essential for cutting down on your heating bills, not to mention keeping your patio set in place during the summer.
- Location of yard - are the yard and house located at the top of a hill or at the bottom? These are factors to consider as the top can be quite windy, but the bottom can be subject to flooding during heavy rain or a lot of spring run-off.
- Maturity of yard - is the yard filled with mature trees and existing lawn/garden space, or will you be starting with a clean slate?
The above list contains just the basics of what to look for and consider. Make a list of your own as well so you are not regretting the purchase you make. Purchasing a home is a big decision, whether it is urban or rural.
Feel free to add any points I may have missed in the comment section.
Have a great day!
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