Why small-town buying is different

London’s market has variety and volume. Smaller towns don’t. That changes how you search, how quickly you act, and what you check before you fall in love with the photos. With the right prep, you can avoid surprises and move into a home—and a rhythm of life—that actually fits.

Mistake #1 — Thinking you have endless time

Listings may sit longer now—but small towns have fewer good fits at any given moment. If a Lucan or Exeter home matches your criteria, there may not be another like it for weeks.

• Get pre-approved and know your top 3 non-negotiables.
• Set alerts so you see the right homes on day one.
• Act promptly when the right fit appears.

Mistake #2 — Assuming all services are equal

In-town homes in places like Exeter, Lucan, and Thorndale often have municipal water/sewer, natural gas, and solid internet. Rural properties may not.

• Check if it’s town water/sewer or well/septic.
• Know if it’s natural gas or propane.
• Confirm internet availability and speeds.

Mistake #3 — Underestimating day-to-day trade-offs

You’ll find essentials in most small towns—but not the late-night hours or variety you may be used to. This can require adjustment.

• List your after-6 p.m. routines and check local availability.
• Test your commute and travel to activities.

Mistake #4 — Believing small town = less maintenance

Larger lots and rural systems can mean more upkeep—lawn care, exterior maintenance, well/septic upkeep. Even newer builds need a plan.

• Budget for seasonal yard care and major system replacements.
• Ask about well/septic maintenance needs.

Mistake #5 — Getting too picky too fast

Being overly specific can leave you with zero options. We’ve seen buyers pass on great homes while chasing a unicorn.

• Keep your top 3 non-negotiables, but stay flexible on smaller details.
• See homes in person—some may surprise you.

Small-Town Buyer Readiness Checklist

• ✅ Pre-approval and budget ready
• ✅ Top 3 non-negotiables defined
• ✅ Services confirmed
• ✅ Maintenance budget set
• ✅ Lifestyle tested

Next Steps

We’ve helped dozens of families transition from London to surrounding small towns. We’ll walk you through what to expect, what to ask and how to know when it’s right.