We’ve helped several clients trade in the bright lights of the city for the private solitude of the country. They’ve aspired to swap the hustle and bustle of their urban life for a home on an acreage where the only noise that could wake them are the sounds of birds chirping. And we’ve been more than happy to help.
Moving to an acreage or rural development offers plenty of opportunity to build the home of your dreams, but the process is quite a departure from building within the city limits. If you’re considering the purchase of an acreage development around Saskatoon, here are some essential questions you’ll want to ask the developer—before you seal the deal.
Roads
- Will the main roads in the development be paved or coated in the future? If so, when will that happen?
- Who maintains the public roads within the development?
- Whose responsibility is it to construct an approach and culvert to the property? (Assuming there isn’t one already).
Water and waste services
- Where will my water come from? (Many acreage developments offer city water, while others require you to dig a well, or use a holding tank and a water delivery service).
- What type of wastewater system will I need to install?
- How is garbage and recycling managed?
Energy services
- Have you already run a metered electrical service to the lot? (The answer will likely be “yes” for developments surrounding Saskatoon).
- Is natural gas service provided to the lot?
Subdivision and community association fees
- Are there any subdivision fees that need to be paid on the lot? (You can often ask the developer or the local Rural Municipality (RM) about this).
- Are there any community association fees?
Miscellaneous
- What are my options for Internet service?
- If I purchase the land, is there a requirement to finish building within a specific timeframe?
Documents to obtain
- Can you obtain a copy of the geo-technical report for the area? (This will give you and your builder a better understanding of the soil conditions and water tables).
- Are there architectural controls and design standards in place within the development? If yes, request a copy to review with your builder.
It’s important to note that these questions are simply a starting place. For a more in-depth understanding, check out our Acreage Living Guide. It features more thorough information on each of the above categories, as well as a list of potential Saskatoon area acreage developments.