From Hanwell and Kingsclear to Keswick, Douglas, Rusagonis and the communities along the river, many of the homes around Fredericton sit on a little more land, with their own well and septic system instead of city services. Buyers love the space and the quiet, but they also have more questions about how a country property works. If you’re thinking of selling a rural home, a bit of preparation goes a long way toward a smooth sale. Here’s what our team recommends.
1. Do I Need to Test My Well Before Selling?
Buyers will want to know where their water comes from. Gather what you know about your well: whether it’s drilled or dug, roughly how old it is, where it’s located on the property, and any records you have from drilling, servicing or treatment equipment such as filters or softeners.
Most buyers of rural homes include a condition for water testing in their offer, and some lenders expect it too. If you haven’t tested your water in a while, consider having it tested through an accredited lab before you list, so there are no surprises once you have an offer. We can explain how water testing usually fits into the offer timeline.
2. Get to Know Your Septic System3
A septic system is out of sight and often out of mind, but buyers and their REALTORS® will ask about it. Find any records you have, such as when the tank was installed, when it was last pumped, and who did the work. If you know where the tank and field are located, mark them, or sketch them on a simple site plan.
If it’s been a while since your tank was pumped or looked at, it may be worth booking that before you list. Here in New Brunswick, it’s much easier to do while the ground is still accessible, so fall is a good time to check this off your list before the snow arrives.
3. Know Your Land and Boundaries
On a larger lot, buyers want to know exactly what they’re getting. Find your survey or location certificate if you have one, and know where your property lines are. Think about outbuildings such as garages, barns, sheds and workshops, and whether you have any rights-of-way, shared driveways or easements.
If anything about your boundaries or access is unclear, talk with your lawyer/REALTOR® early. Sorting it out before an offer comes in is far less stressful than trying to solve it on a deadline.
4. Think Like a Country Buyer
Buyers moving out of the city often have practical questions. Who plows the road? Is there a private snow clearing arrangement for the driveway? What internet and cell service options are available? How long is the drive to downtown Fredericton, CFB Gagetown or the nearest school bus stop? Jotting down the answers ahead of time helps us market your property and answer buyer questions quickly.
It’s also worth keeping the driveway and walkways clear and safe through the winter months so showings can go ahead without a hitch.
5. Show Off the Lifestyle
People buy rural homes for the space, the privacy and the lifestyle. We’ll make sure your listing tells that story. A tidy yard, a clear path to the garden or the water, and a well-kept outbuilding all help buyers picture themselves there. Tell us your favourite things about living on your property, whether that’s the sunsets, the trails out back or the peace and quiet. Those details make a listing stand out.
Selling Your Rural Home with Our Team
Selling a country property comes with a few more moving parts, and our team is here to help you through each one. We can walk you through what buyers will ask about, connect you with trusted local professionals, and make sure your home is marketed to the right people. Reach out today to get started!
