For Maclain “Mac” and Karina , moving to the countryside was more than a wish—it was a long-held dream rooted in their rural childhoods. Tired of suburban life, the couple sought a rural retreat where they could raise a family and reconnect with nature. Their search led them to south central Kansas, where they discovered a 78-acre property named Heron Waters.
A Shared Dream
Cultivated from an early age, both Mac, a finance manager, and Karina, a speech pathologist, share a love for the outdoors. “My family and I moved out into the country and my parents had a hobby farm,” Karina said. “We had donkeys, cows and sheep. We had a couple of chickens and goats; a couple of everything and that was always my dream.” Mac felt the same way, being originally from Michigan and growing up on land.
Their previous suburban home on a golf course felt restrictive. “It was something we knew we wanted to get away from at some point,” said Mac. The Heron Waters property, named by its previous owners for the graceful birds that inhabit its western pond, resonated with their desire for a nature-filled life.
An Unexpected Discovery
Initially, they searched for bare land to build a custom home. However, an open house for Heron Waters changed everything. “We expected a bare piece of land with a really small house,” Karina shared. The sprawling estate, which includes a central pond with a waterfall, barn, pastures, a silo and 25 tillable acres of farmland, exceeded their expectations.
The Kansas property is a vital escape from their professional lives. While Mac reconnects with nature, Karina tends to the gardens and their five cows. “Out here, we get to work with our hands and it’s okay to get dirty. I love being outside and trying new hobbies,” Karina shared. Beyond their own enjoyment, the couple plan to share their new home with loved ones, envisioning a place for everyone to relax and create memories.
The Right Partner
Securing their dream property was possible thanks to Rural 1st and the couple’s Loan Officer, Anna Young. The couple needed a lender who understood the unique value of the rural property. “Rural 1st was the perfect partner,” Mac said. “Anna’s expertise, genuine understanding of rural living and trust we placed in her made the process seamless.”
Heron Waters is more than just a property; it’s a testament to Mac and Karina’s dedication to a life aligned with their values. It’s a place where they can relax, explore and be Closer to What Matters®.
Interested in financing your own rural retreat? Connect with a Rural 1st loan officer today to learn more.
