Country living: A first-timer’s guide to buying on the backroads

So, you're buying in the country for the first time: congratulations! Moving out of the city can be one of the most rewarding decisions you'll ever make – especially now that many of us can work from home.

But rural and waterfront properties come with unique challenges, and without the right help you could end up with a lemon. 

Here are our top five tips to consider before you sign on the dotted line.

If you only do one thing before you buy, be sure to map your property through our GeoPortal or request a formal property inquiry. This can tell you if your dream home is located in the floodplain or a municipal drinking water vulnerable area, near a regulated stream or wetland, or has unstable slopes.

These designations could determine how, where or even if you can renovate, rebuild or add to the property. Without this heads-up, your country castle dreams could be dashed - or at least diminished. 

Most rural properties have private septic systems or tertiary treatment units. Before you buy, research how septic systems work and your maintenance responsibilities under the Ontario Building Code. Depending on your set-up, you may face additional maintenance requirements.

Ask for detailed maintenance records from the seller or ask your conservation authority or health unit when the system was last replaced, inspected and maintained. If you plan on rebuilding or renovating, your septic must be assessed to see if it's big enough for the new space.

Most rural properties have private wells on site instead of municipal water. Wells come with their own maintenance and testing needs, and sometimes they must be re-drilled or decommissioned if they have persistent water quality issues. Ask lots of questions about water quality issues in the area, whether the property is part of a Source Water Protection zone and if the property's private well has had any problems. Ask for detailed maintenance and testing records from the seller and consider getting the water tested before you buy.

Keep in mind that grants, subsidies and other financial incentives are often available to help you enhance your new property. RVCA's tree planting and shoreline naturalization projects can add shade or reduce runoff, while our Rural Clean Water Grants can help you deal with drainage issues, well and septic upgrades, and more.

Buying in the country is a big and exciting move, but you need to look out for yourself to save you time, money and hassles down the road. To start your property inquiry or pick the brains of our very helpful resource specialists, call 613-692-3571 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..