Vancouver Island has an impressive range of real estate options to choose from. Prospective buyers can select everything from a penthouse in the urban core to a cottage on a sparsely inhabited island. Or they can readily choose homes ranging from suburban bungalows to high slope mansions. It’s no exaggeration to say that there is something available out there to match any taste or to meet any budgetary requirement.
For many potential owners the dream of owning rural property holds a special appeal. Whether a budding hobby farmer or simply desirous of having a quiet place to get away from it all, rural property has many attractions. But before beginning your search for that ideal rural retreat there are a number of things you should consider.
Where is it located?
The often quoted real estate axiom of ‘location, location, location’ is especially true when it comes to acquiring rural property. When viewing a property on a bright and sunny spring day a site that seems only half an hour from your place of employment today, might be an hour away in the driving rain or snows of winter. If commuting to and from your rustic hideaway is a concern than distance is a factor that must be considered.
Another is the condition of the roads to your new home. In some more remote locations the smooth pavement of the highway might be replaced by the randomly repaired surface of a gravel road. Will this road wash out in winter? Is your vehicle going to survive the pounding of a potholed route on a daily basis? If necessary how difficult will it be for emergency services to reach the location?
What are the neighbors like?
Everyone has a personal story about unpleasant neighbors. The same situation can happen in a rural location just as readily as in an urban one. Before making your purchase it’s a good idea to check out your neighborhood. Are the properties in immediate proximity to yours in good repair, or are they ramshackle? Are there livestock in the fields that could wander onto yours? Are hunters or other people with firearms likely to be discharging them on a regular basis?
How big a property do you need?
If your rural dreams include establishing some sort of small scale agri-business, is the property you’re looking at big enough for your needs or will a smaller one do? Of course every purchase has to be made with a defined budget in mind, but if money is not a factor then bigger might be better, as a larger canvas will provide the opportunity to paint a larger masterpiece.
What comes with the sale?
Often if purchasing an existing rural property, a hobby farm for example, there may be chattels that come as part of the price. It’s important that everyone included in the transaction understands what is actually being purchased. A partial list of what may (or may not) be included would include any outbuildings or barns, gates, livestock feeders, miscellaneous farm equipment and other items. Always confirm a final list before signing on the dotted line. You don’t want to be disappointed once you move in.
Do you have a REALTOR®?
A key part of any successful real estate transaction is the knowledge and experience of a professional REALTOR®. The experts at Realty Executives Mid Island understand the market, they know the inventory, and they have the skills needed to guide you through any purchase – rural or otherwise.
The list could go on but clearly you’ve already gotten the idea. Owning a rural property is a unique purchase and one with tremendous potential. But research has to be carried out beforehand to ensure the purchase is the right one for your needs, temperament and budget. Why not call Realty Executives today to begin the process?
