Thinking About Buying Acreage
Life outside the city limits can be very rewarding. You become acutely aware of your surroundings-of nature. Sunrises, sunsets and beautiful views are, most often, what are advertised. Rightfully so; they are spectacular. What you don't see in the ads are many other, thrilling things. Walking upon a covey of quail, as the fly out of the grasses in front of you, with a big whirring sound. Thrilling. The sound of coyotes yipping, owls hooting. Thrilling. A gray fox staring into your headlights, as you drive along your road. Thrilling. My big thrill is the roadrunner, crossing my path. Thrilling. There is nothing like stepping outside in the still of a clear night. The sky will be inky and the stars will asstound you. Thrilling.
As you think about moving out of the city, to your own acreage, what lifestyle do you imagine? There are many ways to move "out." Perhaps you want to acquire acreage as an investment that you can enjoy. Maybe you want to play a role in preserving some of the acreage from development-or both. You are allowed to homestead up to 20 acres. Acreage, in excess of 20 acres, will be taxed at a regular rate.
Pay attention to the surroundings, when looking at property. Who owns the property in the area? What are their plans? Are deed restrictions, in the area, suited to your expectations? Don't assume tha the neighboring 30 acres won't build a house, and block your view. Stranger things have happened. Could the adjacent property become a dirt bike park? Or a dog breeding kennel? These examples are pulled from real events. Ask questions.
You may want to spread your wings, maybe 1-5 acres. The same questions and investigation apply. There are developments that have created 1-8 acre lots, within the development. That can be a great way to insure that what you expect is what you will get. In that case, the deed restrictions and HOA requirements will outline what you can expect. Meet some of the others in the development. Ask questions.
Land has continually been a winner for investors. In Austin, we have the good fortune to be surrounded by unique properties, land that recalls legends we have learned. What a great way to invest......and live.
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