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COUNTRY VILLAS
In this case you will almost certainly be buying a ‘greenfield’
site, or possibly a tract of land with an existing building. There
are urbanisations (housing developments) in the countryside but
they are infrequent.
Most of the advice given in the previous section regarding coastal
villas holds good, but there are a number of additional points
to take into consideration.
1) Minimum plot sizes.
These can vary from as little as 1,000 m2 (approx 1/4 acre) if
the plot is close to a village - up to 25,000 m2 (approx 6 acres)
if the plot is deep in the countryside. If the plot is below the
minimum size required you cannot legally build on it.
2) The size of the property that can be built on the plot.
In many areas a substantial piece of land is required before
anything other than a run of the mill property can be built.
3) Right of way.
Most countryside plots will be accessed by country tracks (dirt
roads) which may also give access to other rural homes or farms.
It is obviously essential to have legally recognised access from
the nearest tarmaced public road to your selected plot.
4) Water and Electricity
If the plot is isolated the cost of putting in services may be
prohibitive.
5) Existing Building
If there is already an old farmhouse, or cottage, on the land
and it is your intention to refurbish it rather than build a brand
new home, there will almost certainly be restrictions on can what
be done.
6) Topographical
Most country plots will be sub-divided farmland and the borders
may not be clearly marked. A topographical survey should clearly
delineate borders and state exactly the total square metres of
the plot. If the land is not already fenced, then a new purchaser
may consider fencing off the plot (according to his survey) to
avoid possible future disputes. The cost of a survey is likely
to be between £200 and £500 for most normal homesites.
Your Lawyer will be able to ascertain all of the above before
purchase. He should also be able to arrange a Topographic Survey
on your behalf.
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