House hunting is hard enough, and to find the perfect property for horses is no easy task. Many realtors do not know the challenges and requirements for equestrian real estate and focus more on the house than the horses.

Finding the perfect property for your horses, especially if you have plans to grow is difficult. Make sure your next property can fit your family and your horses with the perfect property.

We Go over the 3 must-haves for your next equestrian property!

Right Type Of Land

As all horse lovers know, not all types of land are ideal for keeping horses. Heavily wooded areas, marshy, heavily rocky areas, or even steep slopes, aren’t good for keeping horses.

In fact, some land types can actually hurt horses down the line.

Steep slopes put a strain on the horse tendons, branches can scratch, and marshy grounds can cause hoof walls to weaken. Marshes are notorious for bugs, and can even get horses sick!

Aside from soil type, the layout of the land is important as well.

Making sure that there is plenty of water source, and that the land is land out to properly take care of hoses. From the type of plants available, that the wells are in great locations. Check the regulations especially for manure piles, and see if there is any risk of HOA regulations.

The amount of land is also important. The rule of thumb is about 1.5 acres of land per horse, and add an extra acre per horse. If you are planning to expand, or want to have the option to get more horse down the line, this is something to think about when searching for a home.

Outdoor Buildings

For anyone looking for a horse property, having outdoor properties is a must!

Having access to a barn or stable is a necessity, and property without it can cost in the long run. In fact, a new barn can cost about starts around $5,000-$10,000! If the barn or stable does not have adequate storage, that can add up too! New buildings may have more costs as well if you have to get permits or inspections.

Aside from the barn itself, look for other outside storage, for equipment and hay and a tack room.

If there are buildings in place you will have to have them inspected to see if they are sound, and idea for your equestrian needs.

The locations of the buildings is something to look into as well, as it depends on your plans with your horses. Here are some questions to keep in mind. How close your barn is to your home? Or are should your barn b e in front of your home? Where will the equipment be stored, how close is it to the barn? Where will you park your trailers and vehicles?

Having the right outdoor buildings is a key factor in finding your next property.

Fencing and Security

A horse getting loose, so having the right security and fencing is key when looking at potential properties.

Fencing should be looked over carefully, and arenas of the broken fence should be inspected to see how to fix properly before purchasing a property. Not only does fencing add value to the property, but also security and safety for the horses. Fencing can add up, with some material costing $10 or ore per foot! Properties in need of fencing can be costly, so make sure the land has some fencing in place.

Riding arenas also require adequate bases. Inspect arenas in place, or potential areas to add an arena, if they have good land, footing and fencing it may be a great option! Look at the materials to get an idea of what it would cost to make one, including land and fences.

Look at other security options for your outdoor buildings, as there are plenty of systems that are great for this! You should look at your home security as well! Look at your security options for your barn and storage areas to make sure your horse stays in the right area and don’t get out!

Keeping your horses safe should be your top priority, so make sure your property has all the security and safety features they need.

Summary:

Finding the best property for equestrian real estate can be hard. Many realtors do not know the ins and outs of taking care of horses, or ranch life, so knowing the top 3 things to look for can be a lifesaver! Keep in mind how many horses you plan to have, or add and how you plan to use your horses can make finding the property easier.