Thinking of moving out to the country for the quiet, the space, or simply the charm of it all? You’re not alone.
Several people have sought solace from the chaos of urban living and opted for sprawling estates where they can unwind, breathe fresh air, and reconnect with nature.
Even Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Prince and Princess of Wales, have two country homes. Interestingly, they received one of the homes, the Anmer Hall, as a wedding present from Queen Elizabeth II.
When hunting for a country home, it’s easy to get caught up in the big things like the number of bedrooms or the open floor plan.
All that is important, but what about the backyard? That’s where the charm of rural life lies. But many people overlook that—you mustn’t make that mistake.
So, what should you look for when evaluating a backyard? We’ll discuss just that in this guide.
1. Space for Gardening
Have a green thumb? Then you’d want a backyard with plenty of room, so you can cultivate a garden.
Ample space aside, the backyard must have the right conditions for gardening.
Look for homes with sunny exposure, as sunlight is crucial for growing healthy plants. According to Better Homes & Gardens, most plants thrive when they receive direct sunlight for six hours.
Check the soil quality also. In rural areas, the soil is usually a bit richer than what you’d find in the city.
Still, getting a sense of the soil is a good idea. That way, you’ll know whether you’ll need to add compost or extra nutrients.
Think about irrigation options as well. If there is no easy access to water, you’ll have to install a system. The cost of installing an irrigation system ranges from $450 to $4,700, reveals Forbes. If you can’t shell out so much money, a simple garden hose will do the job.
2. Outdoor Living Spaces
Outdoor living is all the rage nowadays. The trend isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
When searching for your ideal country home, explore properties with established outdoor areas that are both functional and inviting.
A well-designed patio or deck with ample space for furniture, a fire pit, or a grill is a huge plus. It will offer a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor life, giving you an area to relax, dine, or entertain guests.
Also, look for features like built-in seating, shade structures, or even an outdoor kitchen if you love to cook al fresco.
If the property has the acreage you can live on, think about how you can use that space creatively. Perhaps you can add a pergola or a small herb garden nearby.
You can also add a pool with a patio surround that includes an outdoor kitchen or deck. With acreage, Land Broker MLS notes, there is also room for outbuildings like she-sheds, saunas, or art studios.
As you tour potential homes, visualize how these outdoor spaces can enhance your lifestyle.
3. Water Features
A natural water feature is a huge plus when you’re out in the country. Maybe there’s a small creek running through the property, or you’ve got a pond.
Water features can add a whole new level of charm and tranquility to a backyard. Plus, they can attract animals like frogs or ducks. That will make your backyard feel like a nature retreat.
Keep an eye out for existing water features when exploring properties. Even something as simple as a bubbling fountain or small pond can make the backyard feel like a retreat. If you’re considering adding a water feature to your own space, visit Pond Haven today to check out options for purchase.
Water features—big or small—require regular maintenance, so finding properties with them might be difficult. If you don’t find homes with a water feature, look out for the potential to add them.
For inspiration, take a look at the stunning water feature by the driveway of Jayne Torvill’s impressive country home. It’s a perfect example of how a water feature can elevate the beauty of a property.
4. Fencing
Fencing is one of the crucial features, but it often gets overlooked.
If you have pets or young children, a fenced yard is a must to keep them safe and secure. You don’t want them to wander off or get into trouble with local wildlife.
In a rural area, fencing is often about more than just keeping your pets in; it’s also about keeping wild animals out.
Deer, raccoons, and other wildlife can wander onto your property. That sure is a part of the charm of country living, but they can also wreak havoc on your garden or small animals.
Earlier this year, the New York Post reported that Simon Cowell’s $8.7M mansion was invaded and marred by pesky moles. Those moles wreaked havoc in his gardens.
When looking at properties, consider the type of fencing. Wooden fences offer charm but may need more maintenance. Vinyl or chain-link, on the other hand, can be more durable and require less upkeep.
Final Note
In the end, the backyard is where the magic of country living happens.
Whether it’s gardening, relaxing, or keeping animals, the right backyard can turn a country house into your own little slice of paradise.
So, take your time when exploring properties, and make sure the outdoor space has what you need or the potential to become what you want.
