When you are considering an acreage property, there might be a few things to consider. There are some country acreages that lie just outside of town and may still have access to city utilities, including water, sewer and electric, but this is not always the case. Sometimes, the home may be on a well and individual septic system, so this is something you want to consider.
When it comes to a well and septic, you have to consider that you will be responsible for repairs should a problem occur. Unlike living in the city, you can t just call the utility company when you don t have water or there is a problem with the sewer. If you have a pump go out in the well, you won t have water until you replace it or have it repaired, so you will need to have a well company come out to make the repairs. Another thing to consider is ground water contamination and the well should be tested and treated frequently. You need to know how deep the well is because the deeper the well, the less the chance of contamination, in most cases.
When it comes to the septic system, you need to know where the lateral field is, and hopefully it has one. Also you should find out the capacity of the septic and the age so you don t have to worry about replacement, which can be costly. When you are purchasing your country home, these inspections on the well and septic should be part of your purchase offer for the best protection.
Another thing to consider on a country home with acreage is whether there is a wet creek and pond on the property that might be spring fed from the creek. Knowing the water rights and access rights can be important, especially in Western and Northern desert plains states where somebody above or down the creek or river from you has water rights. In the event there needs to be work done, you may be responsible for keeping the creek flowing because a farm downstream may be dependent on it for watering crops or livestock. This is a consideration for you if you plan to be dependent on it, as well.
Knowing the future development plans for country acreage just outside city limits should be discovered before purchasing. You would hate to buy your perfect country home only to find out that a planned waste treatment facility is going to be your next door neighbor, for example. Many people will look at the most optimistic scenario, thinking the property value will increase as development moves their way, but this is not always the case and can drastically change the lifestyle you enjoy on your country home, depending on the planned development.
Finding out any building ordinances and restrictions are important, if you have plans, as well. It is better to know this ahead of time, rather than later. Check for building codes, ordinances or restrictions that might hinder anything you have planned. Country homes with acreage are a great way to raise your own organic food and your own livestock, just be sure you know what you are purchasing.