Lifestyle Guide: Country
What to think about before moving to a country home
Living in the country is amazing and highly desirable for many house hunters. You'll find beautiful scenery, incredible privacy, and many benefits for you and your family. However, before you make the move, it's important to know what you should expect from your new home. That's why it's so critical to work with a realtor who knows about country properties! Angela Rossi is a highly experienced agent in this area, and she is here to guide you and provide a high standard of service as you get ready to move into your country property.
What to Consider Before Moving Into a Country Property
It's important to consider both the upsides and the downsides before you move into a country property.
Do you know about wells and septic systems?
Country properties often rely on wells and septic tanks rather than connecting to city lines. Make sure you're familiar with both demands: for example, did you know that you will need to pump your septic tank every few years to keep it working smoothly? Are you prepared for the fact that wells will stop working if the power goes out?
Are you familiar with the difference between propane and oil?
Heating oil is more efficient, as it produces more heat per gallon than propane and may be used more slowly than propane. This means you may have to refill the tank less frequently. It's important, however, to know how your country home is heated and what the approximate cost of heating might look like as you plan for the future.
Do you know about geothermal heating and cooling?
Another option for heating and cooling your home is the use of geothermal systems, which transfer heat from or into the ground a few feet below the earth’s surface. These systems provide heating, cooling, and even hot water. While geothermal pumps are rather expensive to install upfront, they will likely lead to energy savings in the long run. Because the temperature a few feet below the earth’s surface isn’t influenced by surface temperature variations, the temperature stays relatively consistent, so there will likely be a reduction in energy consumption.
What do you know about water filtration systems?
There are several water filtration systems available, including UV and reverse osmosis systems. Make sure you carefully research the type of filtration system used on your property.
What is the zoning on the property you're looking at?
You need to ensure that your property is zoned for residential construction before you start building. You need to know the property setbacks and if there are any environmentally protected areas that might be controlled by a convocation authority other than your local municipal area. Also, it's very important to know and take into consideration the Ontario farmers' rights when selecting your property: farmers have the right to do business, including business that may lead to higher levels of odor, dust, noise, and light, even at night and in residential areas. If you're zoned for farming, you may need to take that into consideration.
The Importance of Surveys
Before purchasing a new country property, it is important to have an extensive survey conducted to clearly identify all property lines. Out in the country, there may not be clear fences or lots that designate those vital property lines, so it's important to ensure that you have a survey in place to know where your property begins and ends. Many times, the seller may not have conducted a survey. If that is the case, you may need to take into consideration the cost of getting a survey for the property or negotiate that with the seller.
What to Look Out for Before Buying a Country Property
There are several things to evaluate as you purchase a country home.
- Mineral and water rights
- Whether the property has any outbuildings and how well-maintained they are
- Whether the house has adequate, up-to-date plumbing and septic systems
- Whether you have the quiet and privacy you're really looking for
- Distance to local resources
- How far are you from a fire station for insurance purposes
- How well-maintained the roads are and how much access you may have in bad weather
Make sure you carefully consider all those key elements before buying a property in the country so that you can choose the ideal property for your needs.
What to Know About Building a Home on Vacant Land
Building a home on vacant land is a great way to customize your property to your specific needs. However, make sure you:
- Speak to a mortgage broker, because mortgages are very different on vacant property
- Know the proper zoning and where to apply for construction approval
- Know which permits you might need
- Know your rights when it comes to taking down trees and other plants on the property. Be aware of any restrictions involving the disturbance of local wildlife
- Research the amenities that are available in the local area, including sewer, water hookups, electricity, internet access, and even mobile reception
- Look into the cost of the local development charges
- Understand the timeline to be able to complete a project
- Determine how far the property is from the nearest amenities, such as electricity/gas and municipal water (if available) and the cost of bringing it onto the property
Buying a country home can be a fantastic experience, but it's important to know what you're getting into before signing on the dotted line. Contact Angela Rossi today to begin searching for the home of your dreams.