You may be a seasoned country dweller. Or you may be purchasing outside of an urban location for the very first time. Buying a rural property is a great opportunity to embrace a slower-paced and quieter lifestyle, but buying an acreage can be much different than buying a downtown condo or a home in the suburbs. If you're considering buying an acreage, you may think that a general home inspection will be enough to ensure that the property is in good condition. However, it's important to remember that acreages come with unique features and potential issues that require a specialized inspection. Here are some things to make sure your home inspector looks for when inspecting an acreage property.
If you are looking to buy in the beautiful rural landscape of the area surrounding Calgary,
The Eklund Group is an expert real estate team with extensive experience
buying and selling acreages throughout southern Alberta.
Contact our Realtors® for skilled and knowledgeable insight into the unique acreage living opportunities.
Call 403-863-7434.
Acreage Inspection Checklist
✓ Well and Septic System
One of the most important things to check on an acreage property is the well and septic system. These are often the sole source of water and waste management for the property, so any issues could lead to serious health and safety concerns. Your inspector should check the well for proper water pressure and flow, as well as test the water for contaminants. The septic system should be inspected for signs of leakage, and the inspector should check the size and condition of the tank to ensure it's appropriate for the size of the property.
✓ Landscaping and Drainage
When purchasing an acreage, it's important to consider the landscaping and drainage of the property. Poor drainage can lead to flooding and other water damage, and it can also affect the health of any crops or vegetation on the property. Your inspector should look for proper grading and drainage systems, as well as signs of erosion or other soil issues. They should also inspect any retaining walls or other landscaping features for signs of damage or instability.
✓ Outbuildings and Structures
Many acreage properties come with outbuildings or other structures, such as barns, sheds, or garages. These structures should be inspected for structural integrity, as well as for any signs of damage or deterioration. Your inspector should also check for proper electrical wiring and any necessary permits for any new or existing structures.
✓ Heating and Cooling Systems
Acreage properties are larger than typical homes and may require more than one heating or cooling system to adequately regulate the temperature throughout the property. Your inspector should check all heating and cooling systems for proper function and efficiency, and should also inspect any chimneys or vents for blockages or other issues.
✓ Fencing and Security
If you plan to keep livestock on your acreage property, it's important to have proper fencing and security measures in place. Your inspector should check any existing fencing for proper function and integrity, and should also inspect any gates or security systems to ensure they're in good working order.
✓ Soil and Environmental Concerns
Acreage properties come with unique soil and environmental concerns that could affect the property's long-term viability. Your inspector should look for signs of soil contamination or other environmental issues, and should also check for any potential hazards such as old buried fuel tanks or asbestos-containing materials.
✓ Pests and Wildlife
Acreage properties are often more susceptible to pests and wildlife than urban or suburban properties. Your inspector should check for any signs of pests or wildlife, including rodents, insects, or larger animals such as deer or coyotes. They should also check for any necessary pest control measures, such as traps or bait stations.
✓ Water Features
Acreage properties may have water features such as ponds or creeks. Your inspector should check these features for proper function and integrity, as well as for any potential safety hazards such as steep banks or unstable shorelines.
In addition to these specific areas of concern, it's important to ensure your inspector has experience working with acreage properties. They should have a good understanding of the unique challenges and potential issues that come with owning and maintaining a larger property and should be able to provide you with a comprehensive report on the condition of the property.
Find Your Perfect Acreage Home With The Tanya Eklund Group
Buying an acreage property requires a specialized inspection that goes beyond a standard home inspection. There are unique features and potential issues that need to be identified and addressed to ensure the property's safety, functionality, and longevity. By hiring an experienced inspector who understands the specific challenges of owning and maintaining a larger property, you can be confident in making an informed decision about your acreage purchase. Remember, a thorough inspection is a crucial investment that can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
The Tanya Eklund Group are Calgary’s choice Realtors® for buying and selling acreages. Our team brings the skilled insight needed to position your unique rural property to sell quickly and for top dollar. We are connected in the rural real estate network to help you find the country home of your dreams. Southern Alberta has some of the most beautiful rural homes and the most picturesque landscapes in the world, but there are some important considerations when buying or selling an acreage property such as well and septic systems, county bylaws and covenants, environmental concerns, and school districts. Let us help you navigate your rural real estate transaction. Let us be your Acreage Specialists. Reach out to our team at (403) 863-7434 or through our contact form and let’s talk about what home means to you.