Welcome To Franklin Real Estate FAQ's

What do I need to consider when choosing an area in which to purchase a rural property?

• Do I like the local area and community?
• Does the area have the facilities that my family & I enjoy doing? (For example, community groups, sporting facilities, recreation & theatre, restaurants, shopping facilities)
• What are my obligations to neighbours and the community?
• Will the travelling times and distances suit my lifestyle?

Can I build a home on the rural property?

Please check with the local council to ensure that the property has building permission and note conditions relating to lodging a development application.

Can I build a shed to live in or use for a weekender on the rural property?

Whilst each council will vary, most will permit temporary living arrangements in a shed if the plan for your house is lodged. When you lodge a plan for a shed with intent to live in it whilst you build, you will need to satisfy council that you are going to use the shed as an interim measure only.

What are the costs if I decide to build on the rural property?

Local builders can give an estimate according to your plans, other cost factors to consider are:-

• Power – cost for electricity will vary depending on the access and the distance from an available source, a transformer and pole costs approx. $14,000
• Water – council have a minimum requirement for water tank storage.
• Septic system – council have conditions for installation of septic systems, costs vary. There are a variety of new systems that treat effluent for returning the water to your garden.

Can I have the telephone connected? Will I be able to use my computer and the internet facilities on the rural property?

Check with local service providers.

Where are the education services for a rural property? Is there a bus service? Will I be eligible for travel assistance?

Check with the Department of Education.

What ongoing costs are there on a rural property?

The usual ongoing costs may include rates, rural lands protection board, garbage collection or local tip fees.

Does the rural property have legal access?

This is an important aspect and should be discussed with the agent and followed up with a solicitor when going over the contract.

Can the rural property earn an income, can it support stock, horticulture or aquaculture, do I need specific approval?

Local authorities will have guidelines for primary production regulations.

Does the rural property have a noxious weed or feral pest problem?

Council and RLPB will have records on problem areas.

Are the boundary and internal fences adequate on the rural property?

Check these at inspection with the agent.

Can I clear the timber on my rural property?

There are State laws and regulations regarding the clearing of land. Check with the Department of Lands in the local Shire.

Can I put in dams or a bore on my rural property?

You need permission from Dept. of Lands and Water Conservation.

What obligations and responsibilities do I have as a rural property owner?

• Ensure that your stock are contained within the property.
• Ensure that you control noxious weeds and feral pests.
• It is suggested that you introduce yourself to the local Bush Fire Brigade Captain and update the property ownership details.

Franklin Real Estate
The Country Property Specialists

1800 40 10 10