How to Buy a Rural Property
A rural property-- farmhouse, horse farm, vacant field or tilled land--often sounds ideal. But it can present problems for a buyer, especially if the land has never been inhabited. Still, rural land is frequently cheaper than urban or suburban land, and many areas are free of restrictions, so you can build what you want. Once you've found a rural property you want to buy, take time to consider the unique obstacles and financial challenges the property may present before moving ahead with the deal.
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Instructions
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Find a property by searching a database focused on rural properties, such as Land and Farm or Agriseek (see "Resources" below). In addition, Realtor.com lists all of the properties that have been assigned MLS numbers. Contact the chamber of commerce in towns near the area you are interested in and ask for a list of local real estate agents and a real estate guide.
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Use Google Earth to get a bird's eye view of the area. You can see the topography, if there are lakes and rivers, and where towns are located. This can be especially valuable if you're buying property long-distance.
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Check local regulations and the property's current zoning if you intend to build on-site or use the land in a different way than it has traditionally been used. Have a soil percolation test, or perc test, done to ensure there are no drainage problems.
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Hire a surveyor to verify the boundaries. Check for easements, which might include your neighbors being allowed to drive across your property or use a shared entrance road.
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Make sure there is potable--drinkable-- water if you plan to live on the land. You might have to dig a well, install a septic system or have utilities, such as electricity, extended to serve the property.
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Check for cell phone reception and access to Internet services. Consider whether you would need to build a road to the property or if the existing access should be graded or paved.
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References
Resources
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