Should You Buy an Equestrian Property?

A lot of people dream of owning an equestrian property, such as a horse farm or ranch. Around here in Durham Region, Kawartha Lakes, and Northumberland County, there’s a lot of opportunity to turn those dreams into a reality!

Equestrian properties are a unique type of real estate that can be different from other types of rural homes and land types, including some hobby and working farms. So, if you’re looking to buy a country home where you can own or ride horses, there’s a lot you’ll need to know before you’re ready to explore the market.

Searching for equestrian properties and small farms for sale in Ontario? Explore featured listings.

What is an Equestrian Property?

Simply having horses on your land doesn’t necessarily make it an equestrian property – at least from a legal perspective. In fact, not every acreage, rural property, or farm can have horses on it.

In Ontario, every municipality has its own rules and regulations about agricultural and equestrian zoning. Beyond just the ability to have horses, there may also be bylaws in place regarding the number of horses allowed, the space allocated per animal, land usage, and the addition of infrastructure.

So, before you start searching for the perfect place, you’ll want to get in touch with a real estate agent who specializes directly in rural properties. Not only can they help you find equestrian properties for sale in your preferred area, but they can also help you make sense of the rules and regulations you’ll need to follow.

Hoping to buy a rural home? Check out these blogs for more advice.

Is the Land Suitable?

When you start searching for the right horse property for sale, one of the big things you’ll need to look out for is land quality. This is super important, whether you’re buying a horse property that’s already outfitted with equestrian infrastructure, or one that you’ll be converting or upgrading for horse ownership. Horses have unique needs, and as a buyer and rider, you’ll want to make sure that your land can meet them.

Land requirements for equestrian properties can get super technical, and your exact needs will vary based on the area, your plans, and your horses themselves. Once again, working with a Realtor who is uniquely knowledgeable about rural homes and properties will be super helpful.

Without diving too far into the specifics, here are a few high-level considerations regarding land quality when buying an equestrian property:

Is there enough land for my horses?
Is the property easily accessible for horse trailers?
What is the topography of the area?
Has this property experienced issues with drainage or flooding?
Are there dangerous animals in the area?
Are any plants on the property poisonous to horses?
Do the neighbouring properties pose any hazards?

The Costs Are Different

If you’re hoping to find a horse farm for sale, you’ll want to make sure that you can afford it. Budgeting is an essential part of any property purchase, but it’s extra critical when you’ve got animals to take care of and special facilities to maintain.

Not only will the price tag of an equestrian property be more than your average home, but recurring expenses like maintenance, supplies, insurance, and utilities like hydro and electricity can also add up in a hurry. Of course, there are all kinds of caretaking costs to be prepared for too, like food, water, and veterinary care.

With all this in mind, you’ll want to do some research about the true costs of owning an equestrian property before you start searching for one.

Are You Ready to Own an Equestrian Property?

Finally, if you are thinking about buying an equestrian property or horse farm, you’ll want to think long and hard about whether you’re actually ready for it.

Having horses on your land can be an incredible experience, but it comes with a ton of responsibilities. In addition to the everyday care of your animals, looking after your property can sometimes feel like a full-time job on its own (at least on certain days).

However, if you’re a hard worker and up for the challenge, owning an equestrian property can be fulfilling, especially for passionate riders.

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What Are the Alternatives?

Owning an equestrian property comes with a lot of responsibilities, and it’s not always the right option for every buyer. However, if you are hoping to buy a country home and still have horses, there are a few alternative solutions.

For instance, throughout Durham Region, Kawartha Lakes, and Northumberland County, there are a number of reliable boarding stables. These dedicated facilities ensure your horses have everything they need, and give you greater flexibility in your home search.

Your real estate agent can help you find rural properties for sale close to your stable of choice.

Searching For an Equestrian Property? We Can Help!

With more than 175 years of combined experience in our neck of the woods, we know everything there is to know about rural properties in Durham Region, Kawartha Lakes, and Northumberland County. Whatever you’re looking for in the country, be it an equestrian property, hobby farm, waterfront cottage, or family home, we can help you find it.

Searching for the perfect place to call home? We can help. Call 905-985-7300 to reach our team, or email us at hello@liveplayinvest.com.

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Whether buying or selling a home in Port Perry and the surrounding area, our team has you covered. Book a call with us today to get started.