How to Buy a Rural House in Ontario

Are you looking to get out of the city and craving the peace of mind that rural living has to offer you? Then this is the blog for you.

Whether you are looking for a hobby farm, room to build your own home or a chance to develop a business/operation, rural living has an unmatched sense of flexibility!

Let’s walk through what to expect— and make it happen!

First, What Counts as a “Rural Property”?

Rural properties are anything that is outside of the zone of suburban living. These are often larger properties on the outskirts of cities that have enough space to live and play. Many times they also are distinct in their zoning, frequently being classified as Agricultural or Commercial lands depending on their existing nature.

Rural properties also might not include the common services found in urban communities. Things like cable, sewer/drainage systems, water systems and heat and air conditioning tend to be less common, particularly in more rural areas.

They can also look very different- where some rural properties are a short 5 minute drive from the city, others might be 45 minutes away from the closest small town and require a long drive down a gravel road with little to no neighbors in sight! The kind of rural property you choose ultimately depends on your needs!

Rural living can mean different things–but the key is space, privacy, and a connection to the land.

Looking for more advice related to buying a rural home? Check out these related resources!

Where to Look: Our Favourite Rural Spots Near Toronto

There are some incredible rural communities just outside the GTA that still keep you connected but offer a peaceful lifestyle and tons of value. Here are a few of my top picks:

1. Guelph & Surrounding Areas

Guelph itself is a thriving city with an amazing community feel, but head just a few minutes outside the city limits and you’ll find plenty of rural homes with acreage. Whether it’s a charming country bungalow or a farmhouse with room to grow, this area gives you that rural vibe without giving up grocery stores, healthcare, or schools. This is a more ideal option if you are looking to still remain close to the city but have the feel of being in the countryside.

2. Puslinch

Just south of Guelph, Puslinch is known for its rolling hills, tree-lined roads, and rural charm. This area is especially known for those looking for smaller parcels of land to host a hobby farm because it is home to severed lands and smaller plots that are desirable for those not looking for the upkeep of a large property.

3. Wellington County (Elora, Fergus, Rockwood, Erin)

Each of these towns has its own personality, but they all offer picturesque country homes, historic charm, and lots of options for buyers looking for space. Rockwood and Erin are especially popular for those commuting into the outskirts of the GTA and inner Toronto communities.

Not only that, these small towns offer a close sense of community, charming restaurants and cafes and great downtown cores for locals to connect.

4. Cambridge

Yes, Cambridge has a bustling urban core, but head toward North Dumfries or the outskirts of Ayr and you’ll find homes on large lots, farmland, and hidden rural gems. More to that, the access to the 401 makes this area super commuter-friendly and convenient for those looking to host farming operations!

5. Waterloo & Kitchener Region

You might think of a hustle and bustle when you hear Kitchener-Waterloo, but outside the city boundaries you’ll find plenty of rural pockets, including Woolwich, Wellesley, and Wilmot.

This is a great region if you’re looking for a balance of country life and city convenience and many of the lands around these areas as you head towards St Jacobs and Elmira down Highway 6 offer some of the most scenic views, making you think you are truly out in the countryside!

Searching for the perfect rural property? Check out our featured listings here.

Steps to Buying a Rural House

Here’s how I recommend approaching your rural home journey:

1. Figure Out Your “Why”

Are you looking for a hobby farm? Room for your kids to run? Space for a workshop or home business? Room to start your own farming practices? Knowing and understanding your goals will help narrow your search and avoid properties that don’t meet your needs. In the same way, it will help your Realtor refine your needs to search out the best properties for you and your family!

2. Set a Budget (With Room for Extras)

Rural homes can come with amazing value, but also a few extra expenses—there may be updates that come with the price of your rural home or hidden costs that creep up after the fact! It is so important to work with a Realtor who has experience in selling and buying rural properties so that they know what to look out for!

3. Connect with a Realtor Who Knows the Area

Rural real estate is truly a specialty. We know which roads get plowed first in winter, which wells are prone to running dry, and what local bylaws will impact your plans. It makes a difference.

4. Schedule Property Visits

Photos only tell you so much. Walking the land, checking out the outbuildings, and understanding the layout are so important when you’re buying rural. More to that, a strategic Realtor will inquire into the structural capacity of the homes/additional buildings, look into the age of the roof, windows, furnace, CAC and other applicable appliances and utilities to ensure that you are getting the best, full-rounded service.

Let’s Make Your Rural Home a Reality!

There’s something really special about waking up to nature, having space to grow your own food, or just sitting on your porch without hearing the birds chirping in the distance over your morning coffee. If rural living is calling your name, we’d love to help you find your perfect property this spring!

Whether you’re dreaming of a farmhouse in Wellington County, a hobby farm in Puslinch, or a private retreat outside Guelph, we are here to help make it happen!

Searching for a rural home? Contact the experts in Rural Realty at Capstone REPS today! Reach us by email at info@capstonereps.com or call 519.824.9050.

More About Capstone

Our real estate professionals are industry experts and proud long-time locals. Learn more about how each of our team members helps elevate your real estate experience.

Meet Your Capstone REPS