Buying rural or acreage property in Australia can be a dream come true — whether it’s for a peaceful lifestyle, hobby farming, or raising horses. But it’s not the same as buying a suburban home. From access issues to hidden costs, there are important considerations that, if overlooked, could turn your dream into a costly challenge.
Here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid when buying rural or acreage property in Australia:
1. Underestimating Ongoing Maintenance Costs
One of the biggest surprises for first-time acreage buyers is just how much time, effort, and money it takes to maintain the land.
- Fencing repairs, weed management, slashing, and water systems require regular upkeep.
- Larger properties might need ride-on mowers, tractors, or water pumps.
- If you’re managing livestock or horses, add feed, vet, and infrastructure maintenance to the list.
👉 Tip: Always factor in annual maintenance costs when budgeting — and ask the current owner for an estimate of upkeep expenses.
2. Ignoring Zoning and Land Use Restrictions
Zoning laws can significantly impact what you can and can’t do with your rural property.
- Want to build a second dwelling, run a business, or keep livestock? You may need council approval.
- Environmental overlays (like bushfires or flood zones) can limit buildings or require special permits.
- Some areas are zoned for conservation, agricultural, or limited development, which can affect your plans.
👉 Tip: Check with your local council or a conveyancer before signing a contract. Don’t assume you can “just do what you want” because the land is large.
3. Overlooking Access to Services and Infrastructure
Rural properties can be beautiful — but they’re often remote. Ask yourself:
- Does the property have reliable water sources (tank, bore, dam)?
- Is there mains electricity, or will you need solar and battery systems?
- What’s the internet and mobile coverage like?
- Is the road to the property sealed or all-weather accessible?
👉 Tip: Visit the property in bad weather to see if access becomes difficult and confirm what services are connected or available nearby.
4. Not Getting a Thorough Property Inspection
It’s easy to fall in love with the space and views, but don’t skip due diligence.
- Check for signs of termite damage, erosion, or waterlogging.
- Get an independent pest and building inspection.
- For horse or livestock buyers, assess fencing, shelter, and pasture conditions.
👉 Tip: Use a rural property specialist to inspect aspects unique to acreage, like water systems, septic tanks, and dam infrastructure.
5. Forgetting to Plan for Travel and Lifestyle Changes
The tree change dream is real — but rural living often comes with extra travel and fewer conveniences.
- How far is the nearest town, school, vet, or hospital?
- Are you prepared for longer commutes, school runs, or trips to buy supplies?
- Rural life requires self-reliance, especially during storms, fire seasons, or outages.
👉 Tip: Spend time in the local area before you buy. Drive the route to town and talk to neighbours if possible.
Final Thoughts
Buying rural or acreage property in Australia can be incredibly rewarding — offering space, freedom, and a connection to nature. But it’s essential to approach the purchase with both head and heart. Avoiding these five common mistakes can help you make a smarter investment and start your rural journey on the right foot.