The Pros And Cons Of Building On An Acreage: Custom Homes vs. Existing Structures

Acreage Properties: Custom Homes

Building a custom home on your acreage offers a multitude of benefits. Here are some of the advantages:

1. Personalization: With a custom home, you have complete control over the design and layout. You can customize every detail to suit your preferences and lifestyle, ensuring that the finished product is exactly what you envisioned.
2. Modern Features: Building a new home allows you to incorporate the latest technologies and energy-efficient features. You can install smart home systems, energy-saving appliances, and sustainable materials, which can result in long-term cost savings.
3. Quality Construction: When you build from scratch, you have the opportunity to hire reputable builders and oversee the construction process. This ensures that your home is built to high standards, using quality materials and craftsmanship.
4. Warranty and Maintenance: New custom homes typically come with warranties, protecting you from major repairs and defects. Additionally, since everything is brand new, maintenance requirements are generally lower during the early years.

Despite these advantages, there are a few drawbacks to building a custom home on your acreage:

1. Time and Effort: Building a custom home requires time, effort, and coordination with various professionals, such as architects, builders, and contractors. The process can be complex and lengthy, which means it may take longer before you can move in.
2. Higher Costs: Custom homes often come with a higher price tag compared to purchasing an existing structure. Construction costs, permits, and customization expenses can add up quickly, so it's crucial to have a realistic budget in place.
    

Acreage Properties: Existing Structures

As you explore your options for rural properties, you may choose to purchase an acreage with an existing structure. Here are the advantages of this option:

1. Time-Saving: Buying an existing structure allows you to move in sooner since the property is already built. This is particularly advantageous if you're on a tight timeline or want to avoid the complexities of the construction process.
2. Cost Savings: In many cases, existing structures are more affordable than building a custom home from scratch. You can often find properties with desirable features at a lower cost, making it a more budget-friendly option.
3. Established Infrastructure: Purchasing an existing structure means you already have basic infrastructure in place. Utilities, driveways, landscaping, and even fencing may already be established, saving you time and money on these aspects.

However, there are some potential downsides to consider when buying an existing structure on an acreage:

1. Limited Customization: While you may be able to make some modifications to the existing structure, there are limits to how much you can personalize it. You may need to compromise on certain aspects that don't align with your ideal vision.
2. Maintenance and Repairs: Older structures may require more maintenance and repairs compared to a new custom-built home. You might need to invest time and money into updating and upgrading various features to meet your preferences and standards.
3. Unknown Issues: When purchasing an existing structure, there's a chance of discovering hidden problems or structural issues that may not have been apparent during the initial inspection. It's essential to conduct thorough inspections and consider potential renovation costs.
    

Find Your Ideal Acreage Home With The Tanya Eklund Group

The choice between building a custom home or purchasing an existing structure on an acreage depends on your personal preferences, budget, timeline, and willingness to invest time and effort. Consider the pros and cons discussed above, and carefully evaluate which option aligns better with your needs and priorities. It's important to thoroughly assess your long-term goals, financial situation, and lifestyle preferences before making a decision. Consulting with professionals such as architects, builders, and Realtors™ who specialize in acreage properties can provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the decision-making process. Remember, whether you choose to build a custom home or purchase an existing structure, acreage real estate offers a unique opportunity to create your dream property in a picturesque setting. With careful consideration and proper planning, you can turn your acreage into a beautiful and functional space that perfectly suits your needs and lifestyle.

The Tanya Eklund Group is Calgary’s choice 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.
 

FAQ

Q: Where can I search for rural properties and acreages?
A: You can begin your search using our online property search tool here. And you can also contact our team of Calgary Realtors® to share with us your goals for acreage living and we can help you explore all the possibilities, even with some properties that may not be listed on the MLS®.

Q: Is mortgage financing different for acreage properties?
A: Unless you are purchasing an acreage for commercial agriculture or livestock purposes, mortgage financing for acreages is generally the same as urban properties. To learn more about the unique process of buying a rural property, read Important Considerations When Buying An Acreage.

Q: What do I need to know about listing and marketing my acreage?
A: If you are considering selling your idyllic country acreage, partner with a team of Realtors® who can help you navigate your acreage real estate transaction. And for tips from a real estate pro to position your property to be the next sale in your neck of the woods, read Tips When Selling Acreages Around Calgary.