4 Tests to Determine the Vacation Home That's Right for You

Before purchasing or building a vacation home, make sure you do your homework. Finding a picture-perfect setting for future getaways is possible, but it takes a lot of planning and research.

As you're evaluating vacation property, use these four tests:

1. Does the community have the amenities, climate, recreational and cultural activities you enjoy?

2. Does it promise years of enjoyable living without unexpected changes in the character of the community or neighborhood?

3. Are there physical or legal restrictions to stop construction of the home?

4. Does it have a special character that will make you want to spend your valuable vacation time in the same place each year?

If you're building, assess what it will take to put a house on the site and what regulations you'll have to abide by. Ask the local planning office about zoning, building restrictions and any environmental permits required. Also, look for private restrictions attached to the property deed.

Consult professionals to find out about drainage, water sources, soil conditions, utilities, road access, floods, geological hazards, and fire and police protection.

Visit many locations in different seasons. Explore the area — check out medical facilities and talk to neighbors. You may even want to have local newspapers from different areas mailed to your home.

You'll also want to evaluate the economic future of the area and how its growth rate and tax structure will affect you into the future.