The rise in housing costs has caused many families to consider new options, including a move to more remote areas. Ask yourself the following questions before you jump at the chance of owning a house in the country to avoid buyer’s remorse.
1. Will I Be Able To Find Work There?
If you think the morning commute in rush-hour traffic is bad, wait until you have to drive an hour to even see the nearest city. It can put extra miles on your car and the cost of gas can quickly eat into your budget. Additionally, you’ll be increasing your carbon footprint unless you opt for an all-electric vehicle.
Some of these obstacles can be overcome with the rise of remote work. However, you’ll want to check into options for high speed wireless internet for rural areas before deciding to go this route. There are still many places in the country without reliable access.
2. Is There Access to Recreational Activities?
Look at recreational, cultural, and educational opportunities in the surrounding areas before deciding to move to a remote area. The lack of amenities can cause culture shock for people moving out of metropolitan areas.
3. Are There Other Families Nearby?
If you have children that are used to hanging out with the neighborhood kids, they could be in for a rude awakening in a rural area. Instead of meeting up in apartment hallways, you’ll now need to make a concerted effort to keep your kids engaged with their peers. Think of the consequences, like long, summer days with them underfoot, before committing to anything.
Sure, unlimited wireless internet for rural areas can help lessen the impact by keeping them connected to peers on social media, but that only goes so far — and it certainly doesn’t take the place of an impromptu afternoon basketball game. Keep this in mind when looking at properties and be sure to ask your realtor about what types of activities are available.
4. How Close Is Medical or Emergency Care?
Remote living can make getting help in an emergency more difficult. Be sure there is clear and easy access to your property in case something goes wrong. Unlike when you live in urban areas, you will need to look at unique rural fire risks and the proximity to fire stations when choosing a country home.
5. What Aspects of My Life Am I Willing To Change?
You will need to manage many things on your own whereas before you could just call for help. Conveniences like food deliveries and running to a corner bodega will quickly become things of the past. The simple act of going to town can take up a whole afternoon if the nearest one is an hour or so away. It pays to be absolutely sure what aspects of your life you are willing to change before you make a major move like this.
While it is easy to picture idyllic days spent at a leisurely pace, the reality is that life in the country can be tough. Knowing the right questions to ask can help you find the best place for you and your family to put down roots.
