Living in a rural area can be a dream come true for many people. The peace and tranquillity, the wide-open spaces, and the opportunity to connect with nature are alluring aspects that make rural living so appealing. 

That said, if you’re considering buying a rural home, it’s essential to be well-informed about the unique considerations that come with living in the countryside – both from a lifestyle and property perspective. 

In this blog post, we will explore some crucial things you should know before purchasing a rural property.

Want to learn more about rural living in the National Capital Region? Explore these insightful blog posts.

• Rural vs Suburban Living – Which is Better For You?
• Everything You Need to Know About Rural Living in Ottawa
• Why Home Inspections for Rural Properties Are Unique

It’s a Unique Way of Life

One important consideration of living in a more secluded area is the accessibility of essential services and amenities. While seclusion can provide peace and tranquillity, it often means being farther away from grocery stores, hospitals, schools, and other facilities.

Depending on how rural they go, residents may need to travel longer distances to access necessities, healthcare services, or educational institutions. This factor requires careful planning and preparedness to ensure that individuals or families living in secluded areas have reliable transportation options.

Of course, buying a rural home doesn’t mean losing total access to urban amenities. There are many expanding rural communities with well established village centres, offering urban amenities outside of the city. In fact, many of the National Capital Region’s top rural communities are just a short commute into central Ottawa. However, if you’re accustomed to living in an urban or suburban area, it’s important to consider whether you’re comfortable with this trade-off. 

Taking Care of a Rural Home

Rural properties are unique. If you’ve never lived in the country before, it’s important to understand how the homes and properties are different, and how these intricacies will impact you as a homeowner. 

Home Systems

Rural homes are built differently than those in a town or city. Before buying a rural home you’ll want to be aware of its systems, how they work, maintenance costs, and the potential for required upgrades down the road. 

For instance, if you buy a rural home, you may not have access to certain civic services. In a number of Ottawa’s surrounding rural communities – such as Manotick, most homes are on well and septic.

Rural homes may utilize various heating and cooling systems, including forced air, natural gas, oil tank or electric baseboard or traditional options such as furnaces, boilers, or wood-burning stoves, as well as alternative options like geothermal. Determine the type, age, and efficiency of the heating and cooling systems in place. Older systems may require more frequent maintenance and have higher energy consumption, which can impact long-term costs.

By familiarizing yourself with the systems in a rural home, their maintenance needs, associated costs, and the potential for upgrades, you can make an informed decision and ensure that you are financially prepared for the responsibilities of rural homeownership. Consulting with professionals, such as home inspectors, can provide valuable insights and help you assess the condition of these systems before finalizing your purchase.

Outdoor Maintenance

Rural homes tend to have larger plots of land compared to those in urban or suburban areas. While this offers the advantage of more privacy and space, it also means more extensive property maintenance. 

Maintaining lawns, gardens, and other outdoor spaces can be time-consuming and physically demanding. Consider the time, effort, and resources needed to maintain the land, including landscaping, lawn care, and upkeep of any outbuildings or fences. Familiarize yourself with the maintenance and operation of these systems and be prepared for any additional costs or responsibilities they may entail.

Looking to buy a home? Explore these related blog posts for helpful advice. 

• What Should I Include in My Buying Offer?
• Should You Buy a Waterfront Property
• 5 Real Estate Agent Green Flags

Choose the Right Community

While many rural communities in the National Capital Region share commonalities, such as a laid-back atmosphere and tight-knit community feel, every area is unique. Your everyday life will look different depending on where you buy. 

With this in mind, choosing the right area based on your personal needs, lifestyle, and goals is just as important as selecting the best home or property. This is one reason why it’s so important to work with a locally knowledgeable real estate professional who understands the local rural communities. They’ll be able to help you find a great fit. 

Be Aware of Future Development 

After finding a community that fits your needs, consider the potential for future development in the area and how it may impact your ideal lifestyle. While they may evolve at a slower pace compared to the city, rural areas can still see major changes over time – such as the expansion of infrastructure, and the arrival of new homes and residents. 

If you’re looking to lay down roots in a smaller, quieter community, you’ll want to be aware of potential developments that could interrupt its rural ambience. Once again, a local agent will be your best resource for finding a property that meets your needs today and tomorrow. 

The Wright Team has helped buyers in Manotick and the National Capital Region for over 40 years. Send us an email or give us a call at 613-692-0606 to see how we can help you find the perfect home.