If you are thinking about buying a country property, then these 6 tips will help you get up to speed with everything you should know and consider when looking at properties.
- Location matters
Search for a location which suits your needs and offers the types of facilities your family will want close by. Consider ease of travel to work and schools – country roads can be narrow and difficult to navigate.
- Consider Internet Speeds
In some rural areas internet speeds are not great and although this might not be a problem for a casual web user it can be if running a rural business or working from home. Look at options for increasing capacity.
- Visit the property at different times of the year
While the property may look idyllic on a serene summer day it might appear very different in winter weather. Try to visit the property in different seasons.
- Investigate any planning restrictions
Many country properties have planning restrictions in place because they are listed or are in conservation areas and permitted development rights have often been removed. If you have plans to amend or extend the property investigate this first.
- Drainage
Many country properties are on private drainage so you will need to check appropriate registration with the Environment Agency and you will need to ensure it complies with the latest standards. Are there appropriate drainage rights within the Deeds – especially if the septic tank and outflow is not within the boundaries of the property.
- Instruct an experienced Solicitor
Purchasing a country property requires expertise which perhaps is not required when buying a house in an urban estate. This firm is expert in dealing with country properties and the issues to be considered – not only those highlighted above. We understand how the countryside works and will be able to assist with suitable professionals and tradesmen such as private water and private drainage experts, listed building professionals, planning professionals, thatchers and builders.
WBW has offices in Torquay, Paignton, Newton Abbot, Exeter, Bovey Tracey, Exmouth, Honiton, Sidmouth, Launceston, Axminster, Chard and Seaton.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Please note that the law may have changed since this article was published.
