Get acquainted with the property:  The best way to apply a solid dose of reality to your dreams is to take the time to carefully walk around and study the property.  It’s the best way to discover that old trash dump left over from past generations or the soggy spot in the pasture caused by a broken drainage tile.   Experienced realtors have seen plenty of clients who think they know what they want.  But as soon as they walk the ground, they decide differently.

Be prepared to pay:  Country land isn’t as cheap as it used to be.  Even the value of marginal farmland is sharply rising, especially if it’s suited for development.  Not many years back, less desirable farmland could be purchased for $1500 per acre.  Now that land brings $3000 per acre or more.

Don’t assume you can build on the property you like:  If the property has been designated a wetland, for example, the actual sites available for a home on the property will be sharply limited. Here's a good time to pay for your own survey. You're going to need it to show county officials there is upland space on which to build a home or a barn and other outbuildings.

Carefully consider your life stage:  Put schools at the top of your search list if you have children.  A country school with small classroom size is appealing.  There are fine rural schools, but other rate low on the resources scale and high on the deferred-maintenance list.  If you are used to dining regularly at a nice restaurant, realize that these may be few and far between in rural areas.

Make sure you have access:  Property fronting a hard-surfaced road is best.  But access created for easements, pipelines, power lines and railroads is bad.  Pastures and paddocks should be easy to get to and have adequate gates.  Make sure wetlands don’t limit plans you have for a country property.

What is your planned usage:   What do you want to do on your country acreage?  Country living does not mean living without rules.  If you want alpacas, horses and other livestock, make sure you carefully check out local zoning laws to make sure livestock is allowed.  While you’re at it, don’t forget to look for any local covenants that may limit your usage.

Soundness of the land:  If your are buying land for a home, make sure the soil is suitable.  As the Bible says — and I paraphrase — build your house on solid ground.  For the health of your septic system and the well being of your alpacas, make sure the soil drains well.  Soggy soil is bad for your alpaca’s feet and leg fiber and is a breeding ground for parasites.

Heritage Farm Suri Alpacas | Tim & Beth Sheets | Flora, IN | www.OurHeritageFarm.com

Could my alpacas call it home?  Alpacas are extremely adaptable creatures but they do require certain amenities.  Shade is crucial in the hot summer months.  A few trees in the pastures provide natural cooling but make sure there is enough open space to plant pastures.  Property that allows a natural breeze to flow through is also desirable.

Ten Tips for Finding Your

Place in the Country

Be clear about what you want:  Are you interested in timbered property or pasture?  Hilly verses flat? Hunting/fishing or personal retreat?  Room for a few alpacas or a large herd?  Do you need to be near civilization?  Country air is fine, but location is key to scratch the occasional itch for a restaurant in the city.  It’s critical that you communicate these thoughts  clearly to the realtor or broker.  The search process is often about eliminating what you don’t  like as opposed to initially finding  what you do like.