The dream of owning a home in the country is romantic, calling up visions of peaceful days with less stress, a slower pace, and a chance to fulfill lifelong dreams of a simpler, more natural lifestyle. The yearning for country living may be driven by the dream of keeping your horses at home, owning other livestock, developing a large garden, and enjoying a simpler, healthier way of living. The qualities of rural life that have traditionally attracted people to the country remain largely the same today: more space, closer proximity to nature, cleaner air, cheaper cost of living, increased safety, less noise and pollution, more privacy and lower stress. Studies show that living in the country is beneficial for both your physical and mental wellbeing, but there will be trade-offs.

Be honest with yourself, and make sure your family members share your passion for this major lifestyle change. Consider every aspect of your proposed new home. Moving to the country means leaving behind many services, among them the conveniences of town and public transportation, the close proximity of friends, and easy access to cultural activities? As a compromise, acreage close to town may offer the best of both worlds – the freedoms you crave along with easy access to modern amenities. Regardless, for those who are willing to forgo their city life, the transition to a country LIFESTYLE is more than worth it.