Back in medieval times, the cottage was a term of a dwelling denoting the home of a cotter – a serf. As such, it was considered a peasant dwelling. Some cottages were made from stacked and carved out mud while others were crafted out of the side of hills. Few were actually made from stacked stone or brick, though there were a couple and these usually came with hay roofs woven in on the top.

Nowadays, the term of a cottage and the status of living in one are far less derogatory and many people fancy these small and humble dwellings for both their intimate size and quaint appearance. Indeed, they are far more realized but just as appreciated as their medieval counterparts.

Property difficulties with an older home should be searched out. Check on the septic system which in poor condition can have nightmare results. Look for termite damage, signs of leaky roofs, and foundation problems with slanting floors, doors and windows that are hard to open. This gives signals of a foundation problem. Poor insulation brings expensive utility bills. Picking a home with a view is great but being sure to find out the plans for future development in the area. Your great view of a lovely valley may turn into a super highway. If possible find out why the seller is giving up such a wonderful cottage home. Most cottages have the most up to date conveniences but there are those with well water facilities, make a list and check.More info here: Love It or Hate It? Cottage Incense Pot

Another concern with the older cottage home, like any existing home, is its condition. Most people know to check areas such as roofing, plumbing, and heating and cooling systems. But did you know that many older cottage homes were built without insulation? If you plan to use your cottage home throughout the year, this is an important area to check.

One final thing to check is whether or not the cottage of your dreams comes with the land it sits on. It may sound crazy, but in some areas older cottage communities are still “ground rent” communities which means that you buy the house but have to pay a (usually nominal) rent to the owner of the ground the cottage sits upon. This may or may not bother you, but it is always best to consult a legal professional regarding the ramifications of an arrangement of this type.The information doesn-t stop now. Keep looking: Coveted Crib: An Unconventional French Cottage

Cottage homes date back as far as the Middle Ages, when they were the dwelling of a cotter.This/tag helps explain it more. As peasants, cotters generally farmed their own small parcels of land and live in their modest homes. It wasn’t until centuries later, when North Americans began building smaller homes in the country to vacation from their larger (and much busier) homes in the cities. It was this birth of development that began making cottage homes quite popular. Whether located high in the mountains or in a low-lying valley near a lake, cottage homes provide a way of life unsurpassed by their rural counterparts.