If you’re considering purchasing a small hobby farm or acreage in a rural area make sure to ask yourself the right questions before you sign on the bottom line.

I live on acreage as well and don’t blame you at all for considering the advantages but there are some items from the real estate side you need to keep in mind so you don’t get stuck in the end.

Septic Considerations:

Yes, septics. Many buyers who have never lived on acreage are not aware that unlike homes in the city where they are hooked up to city services the majority of rural properties have their own septic system on site. Many counties including Wright County have a law that says the septic system must be tested to be in compliance upon the sale of the property. If the area does not require this on a property being sold you still want to get it done. Hire a certified septic inspector / installer to test the system and find out its current condition before you get stuck in a stinky deal

Septic systems can range from $7,000 to $15,000 and more depending on style, location and how big the home is so hire a pro.

Well:

Most hobby farms will have their own well water too. This is another item you should have tested. A well company can come out to check over the system and test the water for quality – most FHA loans will require this.

Schools:

If you have kids or will be having make sure to check out the school bus route and times. Some properties that are in the outlying areas have a pretty long bus ride you may want to consider.

Lot Lines / Survey:

Many acreage properties have crop land next to them or vacant land so over the years the guy running the farm equipment may have been slowly inching his way onto your land making it appear smaller or the opposite, the homeowner was mowing past his real property line so long it appears bigger. Know what your buying and ask for the property to be marked before you buy.

If we can be of help on your acreage home search please contact us. Thanks for stopping by our blog.