Whether you are thinking of purchasing an existing country home or ranch, buying raw land and building your dream ranch from the ground up, or something in between, the same fundamentals apply. Keeping these concepts in mind as you search for that ideal place to call home will ensure that your final selection remains a happy one for years to come.
Think about the future – just because a particular property looks like it will fit your needs as they exist today doesn’t mean that it will continue to do so in a few years time. Do you plan on enlarging the home or adding more facilities? Is there sufficient space to expand or improve the existing infrastructure?
Optimize Your Ranch Layout – while no property is perfect for every user and use, a good layout can make or break a promising contender. Think about access in and out of the property as well as where large vehicles such as trucks, multi-horse trailers, large delivery vehicles can park and turn around. Consider prevailing winds and the natural terrain when laying out pastures, vineyards and gardens. When planning the location of your major facilities, or analyzing the appropriateness of existing ones, try to minimize unnecessary walking or driving when performing daily chores.
Work with a Professional – Locating quality rural real estate requires more than searching listings in the paper or on the Internet so make sure you use the services of a Realtor; one knowledgeable about your desired area, who specializes in country property and with whom you feel comfortable. Meredith McKenzie is a horse lover and property specialist in the Altadena/Pasadena area.
Meredith McKenzie is at Podley Properties, 897 Granite Drive Pasadena. For more information, call (626) 243-4330 and (626) 344-9755 or email her at [email protected].
