What to consider before building a country home

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Country homes are becoming increasingly popular. It’s now common to see grand houses tucked away in remote villages, far from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Muhammad Nsereko, a construction consultant with 3D Designs and Construction, notes that many people are choosing to build homes outside urban centres. These serve as retirement residences, commercial ventures, or family retreats. Regardless of your reason, Nsereko advises you to invest carefully.

“Be sure you actually need a country home,” he says.

Ask yourself: Do you want to raise your children outside the city? Are you planning to farm, secure family land, or simply build a peaceful retreat? Your motivation will determine the type of home to build.

If you want a weekend getaway and can afford it, you might opt for a luxurious home with landscaped gardens, a swimming pool, and elegant interiors. However, if farming is your goal, a simple three-bedroom bungalow with servant’s quarters may suffice.

“Luxury is unnecessary unless the property will double as an Airbnb or guesthouse,” says Joshua Twinomurinzi of Divine Structures. He adds that you must decide between a bungalow or multi-storey house and ensure the investment remains manageable.

“A country home should not become a maintenance burden,” he warns.

To sustain it, consider small income-generating projects - such as banana plantations, poultry, dairy, or fruit farming - to help cover upkeep costs. You may also need a housekeeper, gardener, or security guard, so budget accordingly.

Location

Choosing the right location is crucial. While many prefer ancestral land, Nsereko says you can build anywhere, particularly if family disputes make ancestral areas unsuitable. For instance, someone from western Uganda might build in the central region for peace of mind.

However, he cautions that some communities resist new developments. Residents might vandalise materials or hinder construction, and some places are avoided for cultural or superstitious reasons.

Brian Katamba, a resident of Nakulabye, shares his experience: “Owning a country home was my dream. I saved for years and bought land in Mityana with a scenic view. I built a beautiful farmhouse, but our nights were terrifying. We heard bangs on the doors, and our gardens were vandalised.”

After questioning neighbours, he discovered the area was infamous for ‘night dancers’ and cannibals. He sold the property within weeks. “My advice is that one should carry out thorough due diligence. Speak to locals, ask questions, and avoid regrets,” he warns.

Nsereko adds that building in your home area also has advantages, especially if you plan to enter politics. A permanent home builds credibility, secures family land, and offers privacy when visiting. Ensure the land is free from disputes and that all documents are authentic - you would not want to lose a sh200m investment to land conflicts.

Access to amenities

Before building, assess key services. Is there electricity, or will you rely on solar or a generator? Consider proximity to schools, hospitals, and water sources, whether rainwater harvesting, a borehole, or public supply.

Road access is essential, especially for transporting produce or supplies, while reliable Internet and mobile coverage are vital for retreats or retirement homes.

Features to include

A good country home should serve both adults and children, says interior designer Mariah Kiwagama.

Plan for adequate bedrooms, bathrooms, and spacious living and dining areas with good lighting.

Include an outdoor dining space for relaxation and a home office, library, or workshop for productivity. A guest wing and servant’s quarters will add practicality and comfort.