What Buyers Should Know About Purchasing a Property With Multiple Structures

A property with a home, detached garage, shop, barn, guest structure, or other buildings can offer additional flexibility. However, multiple structures also mean there may be more to evaluate before purchasing.

This is especially important when considering acreage and rural properties throughout Northeast Arkansas.

Identify Every Structure on the Property

Start by making a complete list of the structures included with the purchase.

Depending on the property, this could include:

• Main residence
• Detached garage
• Workshop
• Barn
• Storage building
• Agricultural structure
• Guest house
• Pool house
• Other outbuildings

Make sure you understand which structures are actually included in the transaction.

Evaluate the Condition of Each Structure

Don't focus only on the main house.

Inspect the condition of additional buildings as well. Look at:

• Roofs
• Foundations
• Exterior siding
• Doors and windows
• Electrical systems
• Plumbing
• HVAC
• Flooring
• Structural components

A qualified inspector or appropriate contractor can provide additional information about specific structures.

Find Out How Each Structure Is Used

Consider the current and intended use of each building.

A structure currently used as a workshop, for example, may not automatically be suitable for residential or commercial use.

Before planning a change of use, verify applicable zoning, building codes, permits, and other requirements with the appropriate professionals or local authorities.

Check Utilities

Multiple structures may have separate or shared utilities.

Depending on the property, investigate:

• Electricity
• Water
• Sewer
• Septic systems
• Internet
• Natural gas

Rural properties may have wells, septic systems, or other infrastructure that requires additional evaluation.

Review Property Boundaries and Easements

Multiple structures make understanding the property's boundaries particularly important.

Consider whether buildings, driveways, fences, or utilities are affected by:

• Property lines
• Easements
• Rights-of-way
• Shared access
• Other recorded interests

A survey and title review may help identify relevant issues.

Consider Insurance Requirements

Multiple buildings can affect insurance considerations.

For questions about coverage, exclusions, replacement costs, or other insurance matters, consult an appropriately licensed insurance professional.

Don't assume that every structure has the same coverage or requirements as the primary residence.

Think About Maintenance

Additional buildings can mean additional maintenance responsibilities.

Consider the age and condition of each structure and potential future expenses involving:

• Roofing
• Painting
• Electrical repairs
• Plumbing
• Heating and cooling
• Structural repairs
• Landscaping
• Pest control

Understanding the property's overall maintenance needs can help you plan realistically.

Verify What Can Be Built or Changed

If you're purchasing a property because of its existing structures—or because you want to add more—research local requirements before making assumptions.

Questions may include:

• Can an additional structure be built?
• Are there setback requirements?
• Is a permit required?
• Are there size restrictions?
• Is a particular use permitted?
• Are there restrictions or easements affecting the site?

Requirements can vary by location.

Consider Rural Property Characteristics

Properties with multiple structures are often found on larger lots or rural acreage.

If you're considering property in Greene County, Craighead County, Paragould, Jonesboro, or surrounding Northeast Arkansas communities, also investigate:

• Road access
• Drainage
• Septic systems
• Wells
• Fencing
• Flood-related considerations
• Agricultural uses
• Timber or wooded areas

Each property should be evaluated individually.

Don't Assume Every Structure Adds Equal Value

A property with multiple buildings may appear more valuable because of the number of structures, but each building should be evaluated based on its condition, utility, permitted use, and relevance to the property.

An older storage building, for example, may have very different value and maintenance requirements than a recently constructed workshop.

Complete Your Due Diligence

Before purchasing a property with multiple structures, make sure you understand what you're buying and what responsibilities come with it.

Review the property condition, structures, boundaries, utilities, access, permitted uses, and available documentation.

Professional inspections and appropriate legal, title, surveying, insurance, and other professional reviews can be especially helpful when a property is complex.