Rural House Hunting

Many dream of a new home, but sometimes their expectations of what to expect might not always meet reality. This is certainly true in a state like Wyoming.

The countryside around Cheyenne has some beautiful places to live, but it comes at a price. A couple can get enamored over the beauty of the high plains, especially if they are new to the area, and in the end, get more than they bargained for.

As a Realtor, it is important that I share with house hunters, particularly newcomers to the area, what to expect through the year if you prefer to move outside of the city limits.

For example, winters here can be very harsh both with wind and sub-zero temperatures. This has a direct impact on extra heating costs and vehicle maintenance. Being out in the country can also mean being late to work at times, or even missing a day (or more) of work because the road conditions make travel impassable. Being out in the Wyoming winter means WIND. Wind brings snowdrifts that can keep you housebound or not able to get out for groceries.

Does this mean you should not buy out in the country?

NO, absolutely not! Some of the most beautiful wide-open spaces you could ever find are in the areas surrounding Cheyenne. This is true whether you go toward the mountains out Happy Jack Road or out Horse Creek Road direction. There are also places going toward the east or down towards the border of Wyoming and Colorado where you can see into tomorrow all while enjoying the views that reach to the Rockies.

This post is not meant to discourage any of our buyers who are shopping for a great home in the countryside. My intention is just to point out a few areas for which you need to be prepared. As the saying goes, “Forewarned is forearmed.”

1. Plan well in advance.
2. Have an action plan to protect each member of your family.
3. Make sure your car is also ready to travel out of town every day.
4. Don’t wait until the last minute to buy groceries, gas for your car, or propane for your home.
5. If you are thinking of raising animals, think of what you need to do to protect them as well from the harsher climates.
6. Find out what policy your employer has in regards to travel in inclement weather.
7. If you are traveling through a snowstorm or a windstorm, it is good practice to let a friend or family member know when you are leaving and when you have arrived.

Living in Wyoming can be an adventure, and finding a home in the countryside is the dream of many people. Enjoy the dream, but be prepared! You will be glad you did.

If you’d like to find a home in the country, then give me a call today and we can get started, Mark Escalera 307-286-0396 or visit my website!