Leaving city life behind to buy rural property is a rising trend in Ottawa. Buyers are now seeking homes where they can live, work, and play. They are looking for a lifestyle that is simple and sustainable with large lots or water access, and a small town charm. There are a few considerations to make before making your move. Here are 6 tips for buying rural in Ottawa:

Tip #1: Get Comfortable With Septic Systems

If you have lived in the city your entire life, septic systems may be new to you. When you reside in rural or remote communities, septic systems will be your what you will need for waste and water removal. Caring for these systems requires routine pumping (every 3-5 years), and mindful care inside of the home, such as spreading out usage of dishwashers and washing machines and being careful of the items you flush. 

Tip 2: Get a Proper Well Assessment Done

Well water is typically safe for consumption, bathing, cooking and cleaning when cared for properly. Ask for any documentation of maintenance or inspections done on the well in recent years; these inspections should typically occur three times a year. You may want to also send a sample of the water away to a lab for a full workup to ensure there is no risk of contamination. 

Tip #3: Check Your Connections

With many people now both living and working from home, having a high speed internet connection and reliable phone service is essential. You want to ensure your cell phone provider does cover your area, you may also want to consider having a landline in your home.

Tip #4: Consider New Expenses

There may be other payments associated with maintaining your property in a rural community. This could include fees for snow removal, garbage pickup, road work, or other services. 

Tip #5: Plan for Transportation

If you are working from home, transportation might not be your number one concern. You may need access to one or two vehicles so you should factor in those costs: car payments, gas, maintenance and insurance. Also worth noting is access to city bus routes is limited in rural or remote areas.

Tip #6: Work With An Agent who knows rural communities

I specialize in rural communities and have extensive knowledge and experience to ensure your transition from city to country is seamless, and that you have all the information you need to maintain your home properly for years to come. 

Contact me to get started!