Have you ever thought of getting out of the hustle and bustle of the city and moving to the country? People looking to live in a rural setting enjoy the tranquility, space and privacy that an urban core would never be able to provide them. If you are interested in this lifestyle but have never lived in the country, read on for critical aspects of country living that you should be aware of before deciding to make the move.
Cost of living – In urban areas, there are more expenses, as you are closer to business establishments. The opposite is true for country living, meaning living discounts are passed on to the homeowner. Through local farming, food costs are also extremely discounted, as you are steps away from fresh produce.
Job opportunities – You would find more job opportunities in urban areas since that is where central hubs of commerce are located. In country life, the primary source of income is agriculture and animal husbandry. Analyzing small towns and communicating with local business in the area can help determine if your unique skillset can flourish in a specific rural community.
Amenities- Urban areas have more to offer when it comes to shops, restaurants, social venues, and general entertainment. However, if you would prefer a serene setting and quiet life, getting a home in the country would be right for you.
If this lifestyle interests you and you’re ready to make that change to country life, you probably want to start browsing listing sites for rural homes for sale. You will easily find many wonderful country homes here in Niagara-on-the-Lake and throughout Ontario. Before you start browsing, here are some of the most important aspects to inquire about a property before making any purchase.
Water and waste management – Rural homes typically will have septic systems. It is important to know what type of sewage disposal system your property of interest has, and to check that proper approvals were obtained during installation. As for the water source, if it is not a municipal hook-up, it would be important to know about the filter systems for the water source of your home, such as U.V systems, water softeners, reverse osmosis systems, to name a few.
Heating – Heating systems may vary depending on location. It could include forced air gas thermal heating systems, oil forced air, propane forced air or electric heating systems. It is important to inquire about the specific type of heating system your potential home utilizes, and to know about the implications and the costs it may incur.
Environment – When looking for your rural home, it is important to know about any negative environmental issues. Be aware of surrounding farms, and the type of farms that could adversely affect your enjoyment of your country home.
Now that you have a better sense of how country living sets itself apart from city life, deciding on your priorities, and working with a professional can help determine if it is the right choice for you and your family. Taking advantage of the quiet rural landscape and small town feel might be the best decision you’ve ever made!
