Lots of people dream of eventually settling down in the countryside. The clean air, space and scenic surroundings are a draw for many, and often you get more property for your money. We are lucky here at Nicol Estate Agents to be able to offer our clients the best of both when it comes to city/rural living, selling properties in East Renfrewshire’s leafy suburbs and more rural areas across East Ayrshire – all within commuter distance to both Glasgow and Edinburgh.
For those considering a big move to the sticks, it certainly is easy to paint a rose-tinted picture of a more rural life and there are many practicalities to consider before making a big move, especially if you have grown accustomed to city conveniences!
Work out your budget
Like with any big purchase, it’s imperative to make sure you can afford it! Before you get carried away looking at dream properties, take a good look at your finances to work out a realistic price range, helping to narrow down your search. Get a trusted local agent to give an accurate valuation on your current home and speak to a mortgage broker about what you can afford to buy next.
Focus on location
Like most of us know when it comes to property, location is key! You might find the ideal home for you in terms of bricks and mortar, but if the area isn’t right it might be difficult to live there or sell on if this situation arises in the future. Don’t focus on home specifications from the outset over taking in the broader context of a property – think transport links, local amenities and schools as well as any plans for development in the area. It’s always a good idea to suss a new area out by having a walk around and chatting to homeowners and local business people to gain a local perspective.
Think about priorities
If you are relocating from the city, think about what you might miss. The convenience to cafes and classes, friends around the corner, a 10 minute train into work? Are you willing to forego these in the pursuit of the fresh air and peace a more rural live might offer? The move will affect not just your life, but your partner and family too, especially if you have children who might have to change schools. Speak to all involved before you come to a consensus and keep the future in mind too. The country might suit now but your situation may change in years to come.
Remember practicalities
Envisage a day in your new country life. No milk for your morning cereal – is there a local shop you can nip to for emergencies? How are you getting to work and what’s the commute time looking like? Work from home, how’s the broadband connection? Friday night takeaway – do they deliver here!? If the weather turns, do you foresee any issues with access in bad snow or flooding due to heavy rain? It’s easy to get swept away by a gorgeous country house, but make sure all the small details of living there won’t add up to a big problem.
Rent first?
If this is a big change for you and a completely new area, it might make sense to rent a property first in a bid to give a trail run and see how you will cope. This is a good idea for those who aren’t yet 100% decided, before investing in somewhere you find it more difficult to live than you imagined. On the flip side, you might get stuck into country living, make new acquaintances and community connections and decide the good life is definitely for you!