Septic systems are not all that can "stink" with a country property

Many people wax nostalgic when they think of escaping the city or the tiny suburban lot and moving to the country. However, few are really prepared for the experience. There is much more to investigate in a country home, so be sure that you have an agent that is familiar with the issues to be your guide.

Remember, in the Houston area and in Montgomery County just north of there, we have no zoning. There are few regulations and restrictions that govern the construction of a home outside of the restricted subdivisions like The Woodlands. Let's go over some of the things to consider:

* Commuting will be different. At the best, you will have two lane roads out to your country home. For the best value, you may have a dirt or gravel road. Be sure to allow extra time for your commute. We still have logging trucks in the forest and getting behind one can greatly alter your commute time.

* Take a look around the property itself. When you get to the true country property, you are without any restrictions. That means that you could have a poorly maintained single-wide on the tract adjacent to yours. If you plan to live in your quaint, well-maintained ranchette; you may have to contend with neighbors that come from a different cultural mindset than yours.

* An alternative to an unrestricted country property, you can find a number of very well restricted acreage communities that regulate what kind of home can be built and what kind of maintainence is a minimum. These restrictions range from very strict ones similar to The Woodlands - to those that simply do not allow mobile homes. Choose the level of restriction that makes you feel comfortable.

* Learn something about well systems. I personally think that the well water in Montgomery County is some of the most sweet and tasty water I have ever found...and I drink about a gallon of water per day. I know water. But a contaminated well is dangerous and a poorly drilled or equipped well can be a big "money pit". Be sure you know a few "ins and outs" about wells - even before you hire an inspector.

* Learn even more about septic systems. In Montgomery County very few traditional septic systems are being approved. The process of getting a septic permitted and constructed could be a completely separate article. Suffice it to say, there is a reason why the county requires aerobic systems for most properties. If the prospective property does not have this modern system in place, carefully consider whether it is truly adequate. Start by asking for the permit documents.

* If you want to live in the country around here - better to buy sooner rather than later. During the last 10 years, the price of acreage properties - the kind where you can have a horse - more than 2 acres - has seen a much higher increase in value than properties in subdivsions of any kind. There is a great demand for living within driving distance of Houston and being able to go to the barn at night to brush your own horse.

Few real estate agents have expertise in both the subdivsions and country property. I have practiced real estate in Conroe and Lake Conroe for nine years. Four years ago I moved my practice to being primarily The Woodlands because when people move to the country around here, they rarely move again. It is hard to make a living if nobody sells their house. Be assured, I have the knowledge and experience to help you with whatever type of property suits your needs.