Whether in pursuit of a lifelong dream or just due to a desire for slower-paced living, there has been a real boom in Alberta lately of people wanting to buy an acreage and move to the country.

And why not? Certainly there is much to recommend the lifestyle: space, privacy, recreation. Perhaps you’ve always wanted horses, or want to be able to go quadding or fishing in your own backyard. There are many kinds of rural properties, and you could find the one that suits you best.

With the proper footwork and research these things can be yours. Without doing your homework though, your cozy reclusion to the country may feel more like being banished to the backwoods.

Among the many things you should consider, add drinking water, septic systems, garbage disposal, municipal regulations, zoning, Internet access and proximity to a school district if you have children, to the list.

When you are a rural landowner, you are often responsible for your own septic system, obtaining drinking water if there is a cistern instead of a well, maintaining private access roads, as well as your own garbage disposal.

Another good thing to keep in mind is the distance from your property to the nearest Fire Department. This may affect your insurance premiums.

Something you should consider is the natural environment of the area. Is your property in a floodplain, for example? You may be responsible for flood or fire risk management.

You will also need to know the local bylaws and regulations that may affect your property. Some of these regulations may include zoning, water rights and easements. There may be provincial rules and regulations that could affect you as well.

A rural property can be zoned as residential, agricultural or commercial. It’s important to know what uses the land is approved for before buying a property or building on it.

A good time to start searching for a rural property or acreage is in the spring or summer. At this time of year, you’ll be able to physically walk around the property and notice if some areas feel soft or soggy.

It may be a lengthy list, but moving to the country is not an insurmountable task with the help of a qualified, professional realtor. The Realty in Red Deer team has access to many beautiful acreage and other rural property listings and can help you find the right one for you. Contact us today to discuss your needs.