In recent months, there has been a huge demand for countryside homes from those who wish to relocate having faced the national lockdown in the city. Although on the face of it there may appear to be few hurdles, it is important to bear the following factors in mind when purchasing a new home.
The people next door
It will be no surprise to learn that the neighbours you are likely to have in an inner-city high-rise apartment are very different from those in a rural countryside property. To that end, it is very important to make the necessary enquiries and view the property in person before embarking on a purchase. As it is not uncommon for farmers to have various categories of livestock on land near your dream property which may become intolerable after a week or so.
The true extent of property
More often than not the boundaries of rural properties can become complex and confusing with many homeowners encroaching on each other’s land. It is therefore important to clarify the full extent of the boundary of the property, as the last thing you want is a dispute with the neighbour on completion.
The water works
It is common for rural properties to be services by private drainage and water either in full or part. It is important to understand whether these systems may also be located on a neighbours property and how the maintenance costs will be agreed.
Access rights
Many countryside properties have rights of way over neighbouring properties for the purposes of access. It is important to establish who owns what, and how any maintenance costs for such access rights shall be agreed.
Agricultural outbuildings
It is not unusual for rural properties to come with one or more outbuildings. It is therefore important to establish that in purchasing the property, you are obtaining vacant possession of any outbuildings, or that you are comfortable being the new landlord for any existing tenancies.
Planning and future development
Rural properties are more likely to be listed buildings or be situated in a conservation area. This mat limit plans for developing or altering the property in the future, and it is imperative that you instruct a surveyor to report back to you on any potential restrictions.
Renewables
Rural properties are becoming increasingly powered by renewable energy. It is therefore important to ascertain who owns any solar panels and establish whether any payments are required one completion.
Payment schemes
In some instances, rural properties with land enjoy the benefit of a Basic Payment Scheme such as the Countryside Stewardship Scheme. If this is the case with the property you intend to purchase, you should establish the full extent of any obligations there may be.
If you wish to discuss your new move, please do not hesitate to contact us.