Country Living: What Newcomers Can Expect From Rural Life

August 29, 2025

Modern barndominium with metal roof on a hilltop beneath a bright sky.

People choose to move to the country for all kinds of reasons: for more space, to pursue their passions, to raise a family or just to connect with nature. 

For those who are new to rural living, it may come with a few surprises. But with the right planning, the country can feel like home in no time. 

Planning for a future in the country 

Making the decision to buy a home is a big step for anyone. For buyers new to the country, that step can be even more daunting. 

Getting familiar with the lending process is a good place to start. It’s also important to work with a partner who can answer any questions about rural homebuying and guide you through the process and give you a sense of what’s possible. 

The Gallaghers had long dreamed of moving to the county, on land that had been in the family for decades. Relocating to the country would mean a slower pace of life surrounded by nature. But the Gallaghers didn’t know where to start. They needed a partner who would see their vision and help them get there.

“Compeer Home took us seriously, never judged us for our age, inexperience or goals,” said Eric Gallagher. 

Sometimes, the move to the country takes time. Our team at Compeer Home will work with you through each step, until you’re ready to make the move.

Going to the right lender

Rural newcomers will quickly realize that country homes don’t look one certain way. They come in all shapes and sizes. For many buyers, these unique options are part of the appeal of country living.

Thalacker family walking together on a cornfield path, smiling and holding hands.


The Thalacker family opted for a shed/house, or barndominium, that allowed them to enjoy the open feel of a barn and the modern finishes of a house. It was because of our expertise in rural properties that the family could get a loan on the unique home. 

Other rural properties include large acreages, while some have multiple structures or the potential to produce income. But many traditional banks won’t lend on these kinds of properties. 

When John Bushert found his dream property, the amount of farmable land it had posed an issue for the first lender he went to. 

Likewise, the Dick (link to Dick family story) family faced a similar challenge when their bank showed apprehension about lending on a property that included a horse stable business. 

Luckily, we can offer solutions for these properties when other banks can’t thanks to our specialization in rural lending. For John and the Dick family, that expertise meant finally securing that dream property. 

Our team doesn’t just work in these rural communities. We live here, too, meaning we can even offer pointers for navigating things city and suburban residents often take for granted: electric service, water, sewer, and snow removal.

We can also offer more flexibility than other lenders, offering buyers a one-time rate adjustment without refinancing costs.

 

Adding a personal touch

For those looking to sell property in the country, the process is more than a transaction. Sellers take pride in their property, and they want to find buyers who will take proper care of it. 

That means a personal touch is always appreciated. In fact, it can make all the difference for potential buyers. Clients of Compeer Home loan officer Lindsey Anderson have even written letters to sellers to make a good impression.

A secluded hillside home surrounded by trees with autumn colors and open green space.


When the Mumm family’s dream property went back on the market, the seller reached out again to them directly because of the rapport they had built. 

 “A lot of times they're hobby farms or family farms that have been owned by family members for a really long time,” Anderson said. “There's a real sentimental value for these folks who are selling these houses.” 

The road to country living isn’t always straightforward, but there are so many things that make it worth it. With our help, you can build the life you’ve always wanted. Let’s find the loan that fits for you.