Moving into a rural home can be exciting. They don’t call it an “escape to the country” for no reason, after all. That said, it’s important to note that moving into more picturesque surroundings, breathing cleaner are, and doing away with light pollution at night all come with its own caveats.
For example, a quick trip to the store now becomes a forty-minute drive. You may need a septic tank instead of being connected to the mains of a sewage system, which means paying someone to come and empty it. Moreover, you may actually need to deal with wildlife depending on where you live, even if it’s just keeping foxes away from your chicken coup.
In other words, you need to be prepared. Let’s consider five investments to make in a new rural home:
Great Property Markings & Fencing
In rural areas, property boundaries aren’t always as clear-cut as they are in more built up areas where everyone is on one another’s toes. Marking your property with fences or signage can help avoid any confusion, not only for you but for neighbors or passersby as well as that. For example, if it’s not a public right of way onto your land and walkers are leaving litter, you’re within your rights to close off your private property. Just be prepared for a little pushback, unfortunately.
Water Runoff Solutions
Water runoff might not sound like a big problem at first, but it can become one, especially in a rural home where the land is uneven. Heavy rain can cause water to pool in unwanted areas or even flood your home if you’re not careful, requiring the use of water damage restoration services. Drains, rain gardens, ditches and more can help with this.
Neighborhood Bonds
Cities and even suburban areas can be a little more anonymous given how many people live near one another, but rural communities tend to rely on each other a little more, such as when helping out during the winter or sharing tips about local services. Take the time to introduce yourself and offer a hand when you can. At the very least it will let you know who to avoid, but perhaps you’ll find someone you can trust, especially regarding the safety of the local area.
Road Repair & Maintenance
If you live on a private road, it might not be maintained at all. It’s owned by the local residents. Over time, potholes and erosion can become issues for your car and safety, so investing in regular maintenance is important, feeding into our last point. You might even consider hiring a local service to maintain or repair the road now and again to keep it drivable.
Garage Security
Rural living often means more space – and more tools, equipment, and outdoor gear. The crime rate is usually lower in rural areas, but that doesn’t mean your home won’t be a target for thieves. Make sure to lock up after yourself and motion-light certain areas to keep difficulties away.
With this advice, you’ll be sure to invest in your rural home for the better.
