Escape To The Country: Making The Move To Rural Life

6 min read Post on May 24, 2025

Escape To The Country: Making The Move To Rural Life

Finding the Right Rural Location

Choosing the perfect rural location is the cornerstone of a successful country move. Thorough research is crucial to finding a place that truly meets your needs and lifestyle.

Researching Different Rural Areas

Before you start viewing properties, take the time to explore different rural areas. Consider these key factors:

Proximity to Amenities: While the appeal of rural life often lies in its isolation, you'll still need access to essential services. Consider the proximity of schools, hospitals, shops, and veterinary services (if you have pets). Think about your daily needs and how far you're willing to travel for them.
Community and Culture: Research the local community. Visit potential areas on different days and at different times to get a feel for the atmosphere. Engage with locals if possible – their insights into community spirit, local events, and potential challenges are invaluable.
Broadband Availability: In today's world, reliable broadband is essential, even in rural areas. Check the availability of high-speed internet in your target locations, as this is crucial for remote work, online schooling, and staying connected.
Property Prices and Market Trends: Research property prices and market trends in your chosen areas. Consider factors like property types (farmhouses, cottages, etc.), land size, and condition to get a realistic picture of your budget. Work with a local estate agent familiar with the rural property market.
Commuting Distances: If you'll still need to commute to a city for work, factor in commuting distances and traffic conditions. A seemingly idyllic location can become stressful if the daily commute is excessively long or unreliable.

Choosing the Perfect Property

Once you've narrowed down your location choices, it's time to focus on finding the perfect property. This involves careful consideration of several factors:

Property Condition and Renovation Costs: Evaluate the condition of the property honestly. Factor in potential renovation costs, which can be significantly higher in rural areas due to access challenges and specialized tradespeople.
Size and Layout: Consider the size and layout of the property to ensure it suits your family's needs, both now and in the future. Think about space for guests, storage, and future expansion possibilities.
Land Size and Usability: Assess the size and usability of the land. A large garden might sound appealing, but consider the time and effort required for maintenance. The presence of outbuildings, sheds, or barns can be a major advantage.
Potential Issues: Thoroughly investigate any potential issues such as flooding, subsidence, or poor drainage. Engage a reputable surveyor to conduct a detailed survey before making an offer.
Lifestyle Requirements: Ensure the property meets your specific lifestyle requirements. Consider pet-friendly aspects, accessibility features for any family members with mobility issues, and proximity to walking trails or other recreational activities.

Financial Considerations for a Country Move

Relocating to the countryside involves significant financial implications. Careful budgeting and financial planning are essential to avoid unforeseen challenges.

Budgeting for the Unexpected

Rural living often comes with hidden costs that city dwellers might not anticipate:

Higher Property Taxes or Council Rates: Property taxes and council rates can be significantly higher in rural areas compared to urban areas.
Higher Utility Costs: Expect higher utility bills, particularly for heating. Older, less energy-efficient properties are common in rural areas, leading to increased energy consumption.
Home Maintenance and Repairs: Rural properties often require more maintenance and repairs due to exposure to the elements and potentially older infrastructure.
Transportation Costs: Owning a car is almost essential in rural areas, adding to the costs of fuel, insurance, and maintenance. Public transportation options are often limited.
Internet and Phone Services: Reliable internet and phone services can be more expensive and less readily available in rural locations.

Securing Financing

Securing financing for your rural property purchase requires careful planning:

Mortgage Options: Explore different mortgage options specifically tailored to rural properties. Some lenders specialize in rural lending and might offer more competitive rates or flexible terms.
Financial Advisor: Consult with a financial advisor specializing in rural relocation. They can provide personalized guidance on budgeting, financing, and long-term financial planning.
Lending Rates and Terms: Understand the implications of different lending rates and terms before committing to a mortgage. Compare offers from multiple lenders.
Larger Deposit: Saving for a larger deposit can be advantageous in the rural property market, especially if the property is less conventional or requires significant renovations.
Additional Costs: Factor in additional costs beyond the purchase price, such as solicitor fees, surveys, stamp duty, and removal costs.

Adapting to Rural Life

Making a smooth transition to rural life involves more than just finding a property. Adapting to a different pace of life and building a support network are crucial for long-term happiness.

Building a Support Network

Connecting with your new community is essential for a successful rural relocation:

Community Groups and Activities: Get involved in local community groups, activities, and events. This is a great way to meet people and integrate into the local culture.
Meet Your Neighbors: Make an effort to meet your neighbors and build relationships. Friendly neighbors can be a valuable source of support and information.
Online Forums and Social Media: Utilize online forums and social media groups specifically for rural residents in your area. These can be great for finding local information, recommendations, and support.
Local Clubs and Societies: Consider joining local clubs and societies based on your interests. This is a fun way to meet like-minded people and discover new hobbies.
Local Tradespeople: Identify reliable local tradespeople, such as plumbers, electricians, and builders, as you’ll likely need them at some point.

Preparing for a Different Pace of Life

Rural life often means a slower pace and a different set of challenges:

Embrace the Slower Pace: Embrace the slower pace and appreciate the quiet tranquility of rural living. It might take time to adjust, but the rewards are significant.
Limited Amenities: Be prepared for limited access to certain amenities and adjust your expectations accordingly. Learn to plan ahead and be more self-sufficient.
DIY Skills: Learning basic DIY skills for minor home repairs and maintenance is highly recommended. This can save you time and money in the long run.
Potential Isolation: Be prepared for potential isolation and find ways to stay connected. Regular visits with family and friends, or utilizing technology, can help combat this.
Children and Pets: Consider the impact on children and pets and ensure a smooth adjustment for them too.

Conclusion

Making the "escape to the country" a reality requires thorough planning and careful consideration. By researching potential locations, budgeting effectively, and preparing for a lifestyle change, you can successfully navigate the transition and enjoy the rewards of rural living. Remember to thoroughly research your options and seek professional advice where needed. Don't delay your dream of an escape to the country – start planning your perfect rural retreat today!