Wahine, both houses sound like they each have wonderful things to offer. A lot has been mentioned about rental and resale and I have nothing new to offer there.

You also mentioned your current house is set up for your partner's business. So buying this one would require less investment as far as the business goes. Your job and commute stays as is. You already know how everything runs, is set up as far as communications (internet/cell service) and customer access.

The new house (which sounds awesome!) would require remodeling and building of a shop for your partner's business. Would the business still have the same (or better) communications and customer access? What about your commute? How will that be effected?

It sounds a little more remote. If so, are the utilities ties similar? Are the power lines reliable? Where does the water come from? Sewage lines? If it is more remote, than some of this stuff can be a little different from a town/city connections and there will be additional considerations.

Oh yes, more house, more acreage, more maintenance. That said, living out away from busy streets and in the quietness is breathtaking. You will get used to the quietness and begin picking up on the smallest sounds. (In a good way) Its quite remarkable.

Ultimately it is what you and your partner value most and what your long term plans are. Sometimes talking it out and writing down future plans helps give perspective and direction.

Good luck!
dt