Should we rent first?
Before you join the millions of second-home owners of this country, you might want to consider a trial run of country living. Especially if you haven’t decided on any specific area, or how large an investment you can handle, renting or leasing a country house is heartily recommended.
In selecting a country home, the average couple should ideally try to set aside sufficient time to find what would be just right for them. Many purchases are made under stress and pressure, with later regrets. Desirable properties in the popular price range are becoming difficult to find in many areas of the country. Prospective purchasers make snap decisions and compromises in fear of losing what appears to be a good opportunity.
One of the key advantages to renting prior to purchase is the leisurely approach to finding the “right place.” A family might discover that the country way of life is not their cup of tea and forget the whole deal, thus avoiding costly mistakes. It is also possible that the rented home might be available for purchase if the mood is right. You might consider taking an “option to buy” at the time the lease is negotiated. Renting a country house will allow you to become a better informed and more sophisticated buyer.
It is sometimes difficult and in many areas impossible to rent or lease a comfortable dwelling. The available homes are either inadequate or plush and expensive. “Seek and ye shall find,” but it won’t be easy.
Few of the desirable places for rent are listed with real estate brokers or advertised in the newspapers, simply because the owners don’t have to rely on these channels to find favorable occupants. A personal meeting with local bankers, insurance brokers, or attorneys may help you in obtaining leads on rentals of this type.
You might rent a summer or winter cottage, spend a week or two in a family type motel, and use these as a base for your scouting operations. If at all possible, spend several days in the area you have selected. It is really the first giant step you should take in your journey to the countryside.
Relax! You’re coming to the country to reduce the pressures on you. Don’t bring them with you on a one-day, frantic road trip.