What to Consider when Purchasing an acreage around Saskatoon

Are you looking to escape the city or maybe you just want a little more space, acreage living is becoming a very popular choice these days. 

Allowing home owners and I have the privacy, freedom & space to build their dream life in the prairies . When considering if an acreage is for you, you need to consider these things. 

• Location: as always, location is so important, how far are you willing to drive into the city every day, how easy is it to access the property, how much snow will you have to remove on the property. How is the soil around you and how high is the water table around here. Also good to keep in mind distance to schools and is there a school bus that services the area. 
• Utilities: acreages don’t always have the same access to water, sewage, electricity, garbage collection like we do in the city. So you need to consider the type of utilities at the property. Ask for the current owners past utilities statements. 
• Rules & regulations: even though you are out in the country, there are restrictions set by the rural municipality on livestock, out buildings, building restrictions,running a business  and much more. Always a good idea to talk directly to the Rm to make sure your plan meets the requirements. 
• Septic & water systems- most acreages have their own private septic system. The amount of land and the size of the home will determine if it’s a mound, pump out or a holding tank.  Be sure to look into the water supply;  could be a public water line, a well or some haul their water. If you are wondering where the closest public water line is, it’s best to contact Sask Water. 
• Once you find an acreage of your dreams, here are conditions you need to consider when making an offer. Always make it subject to financing! Make sure you have a firm approval for this specific property. Sometimes lenders will instruct the appraiser to only give value of the home, 1 garage & up to 10acres giving no value to the out buildings like a shop, barn or Quonset. 
• You will need a septic inspection. Costs between $300-$400. Depending on the water supply, you will want the well inspected and a water sample test done at the Saskatchewan research council. Costs $90-175 depending on the test. You will want to review the zoning compliance certificate with the Rm. Request utility statements from the seller so you are aware of the monthly expenses, especially if it has electric heat. Last is get a home inspection!

If you have any questions about purchasing an acreage, please feel free to reach out.

Jill Bird @ RE/MAX Saskatoon

306-221-1350

Jill@sellingsaskatoon.com