Rural vs urban homes - which is easier to sell?

A huge decision for anyone looking at moving is whether to move to a rural or urban area. While both rural and urban homes have their advantages and disadvantages, you might be wondering about how easy it will be to sell your rural or urban home when you decide to move on.

Your chances of selling a property are dependent on a large variety of factors. Some of these factors are within your control, but some will inevitably be outside of your grasp. Before selling up it is important that you are aware of any factors that might work against you so you can mitigate the risks and improve your chances of a quick sale.

For some, the traditional property market isn't the best plan for a speedy, reliable sale. These individuals might consider getting in touch with a property-buying firm like LDN Properties who will purchase their home directly with minimal fuss.

Here are some of the main factors to bear in mind when considering selling your rural or urban property.

Rural homes

While many of us dream of escaping from city life to a rural idyll, there are many things to consider before opting for country living. Whereas a move to the country was once a natural progression for many urban dwellers, there has been a notable shift in recent years, resulting in fewer people moving to the countryside.

In general, country living can be slightly more expensive than urban living (except if you live in a metropolis like London). In terms of selling, you should remember that the pool of buyers looking to purchase your rural property will likely be considerably smaller than the interest commanded by an urban property.

However, arguably, the UK's experience of lockdown in the face of the Coronavirus pandemic will change attitudes to urban living. While before the pandemic many would have shunned the idea of moving to the country in favour of the convenience of city living, the pressures of being stuck inside apartments cheek by jowl with neighbours may be enough for at least some to be lured by the appeal of open country living.

Urban living

While urban living is not for everyone, there are some key reasons why more people are choosing to stay in the city. One major factor is that most people are required to commute to a job in the city. Therefore, many cannot justify the prospect of a longer commute, and so forego a move to the country.

In addition, some choose to stay in the city where their property's value will likely increase at a faster rate than a country home. For others, the convenience of city living including proximity to amenities, schools, shops, etc. is enough to keep them in urban life. Many prefer to stay close to friends and family.

However, many may be put off by the lack of space that city living typically affords when compared to rural dwellings. Also, it's less likely that your money will buy you a garden within a city. Finally, those who value peace and quiet may be more attracted to the idea of rural living and less likely to make an offer on an urban property.

Tips for selling a rural home

If you have a rural property and are concerned about finding a buyer - don't panic! There's a lot you can do to make your home a highly attractive prospect to potential buyers. Also, bear in mind that the limited pool of available rural properties on the market means that your property is more likely to stand out to buyers who want a taste of rural life.

Find the right estate agent - Finding the right estate agent is very important as not all estate agents have experience of rural properties or homes that come with land. A good rule of thumb is to choose a local estate agent who can prove their experience of finding buyers for rural properties.

Highlight access to public transport and supermarkets - Some buyers might be put off if they feel that rural life would cut them off from essential amenities. By highlighting local conveniences you can win over buyers who otherwise would not consider your property.

Consider timing - For many buyers, timing is important when it comes to purchasing a rural property, with the majority of sales going through in March so that the purchasers can be settled in time for the new school term.

To sum up, while you may be focused on making a return on your investment, ultimately, you should choose a property that is right for your lifestyle and personal circumstances. While it might be slightly easier to sell an urban property overall, this shouldn't put you off starting a new life in the country if that is what you are looking for.