Build Your Own Backyard Swimming Hole

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Water rights are no longer a matter of title in most states, and unlimited water rights are almost a thing of the past. In fact, the water rights issue can be very confusing. Some properties have irrigation or other water rights; some do not. Each state has its own policy about water rights. Most states allow at least domestic water rights for each dwelling, but in areas with a scarcity of water, even domestic rights may be impossible to obtain. When buying land, be sure that you receive rights to have or develop domestic water at the very least. Domestic rights usually include the house, yard, and a limited number of livestock. If additional rights to water become available, it may greatly enhance your land if you obtain them. For example, shares in irrigation districts sometimes come up for sale.

Having or increasing your rights to water will almost always increase the value of your land. Without at least a domestic water right, your land may be very limited in value.

7 Have a Master Plan. Before you start building a home or adding barns, outbuildings, and other improvements you should develop a comprehensive master plan for the land and your intended developments. That way, your additions will be arranged in a way that will most enhance the value of the property. For example: a barn should be close enough to visit easily and all buildings should have sufficient spacing to prevent spread of fire if one should burn.

8 Remove Junk and Care for the Soil. Many old farmers and farms have accumulated more than their share of old cars and junk, and modern landowners are not much different. That is because dumps and transfer stations are often costly and a great distance from rural land, and who knows, you might need that junk someday. Plus there is ample space for storage. Not only is this unsightly, but it provides ideal housing for snakes and rodents. While is prudent to keep a certain amount of old and surplus stuff around, getting rid of the bulk of this accumulated debris will always improve the value and salability of land.

Caring for the soil includes treating for local noxious weeds, either by hand-picking or sprays. A purchaser definitely does not want to face a major noxious weed problem, and many counties will actually treat the weeds and charge you for it and/or levy fines it you don't handle it.

Prevent or treat erosion problems. Erosion will definitely decrease the value of land. The U.S. Government Soil Conservation Service can offer help in evaluating erosion problems and recommend treatment. Sometimes there is also money available for shared erosion control. Pick rocks from farmland and pasture. This should be done on a regular basis. It increases productivity and thus the value of land.

9 landscape Your House and Grounds. From major projects to the small finishing touches in the yard, landscaping can greatly enhance the value of your land. Landscaping is one of the areas in which you can give free reign to your imagination and creativity. However, for the best effect and enjoyment, there are a few simple guidelines to follow when creating your Garden of Eden.

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