With around 1 million horses in the UK under private and professional ownership, it’s no surprise that there is strong demand for equestrian property. Keeping horses at home is every horse owner’s dream, so here is the lowdown on what to consider when buying an equestrian property.
Finding the right property depends on what type of rider you are, a recreational rider is likely to want 10 plus acres of pasture with 3-4 stables and good hacking and a professional rider will be looking for a larger set up with extensive facilities that often include an indoor or outdoor manège, gallops, horse walker, land and a range of stables and building.
Finding the right location is hugely important and often the desired location will depend on what type of rider you are. Clearly, good access to bridle paths and tracks is desirable and, even better, a gallop across open moorland or a sandy beach is paradise to confident riders. If you are a serious rider that competes, you’ll need to consider access and proximity to training and competition facilities. If you’re planning to run a business from your equestrian property, you should also consider any planning issues and if there is a potential pool of clients in the area.
The British Horse Society recommends 1-1.5 acres of grazing land per horse, the land should be able to be split allowing for grazing on rotation which will reduce poaching the ground. The grass should be well established, the soil should be free-draining with a preference for lighter loams. Soil may not be the deciding factor but it is important to consider as it will impact the winter management and safety of your horse, free draining ground helps grow strong bones for young stock and enable horses to be turned out for 12 months of the year. Shade, shelter and water are two other factors worth considering when looking at land.
Stabling ideally needs to well ventilated and spacious, the American Barn arrangement is particularly favourable to most horse owners especially in the winter months, a domestic smaller set up will often have traditional timber stables looking into an outside space. A dry and secure storage area for tack/ equestrian equipment and space to store hay and bedding is vital. Not all equestrian properties will offer every facility that you require in their current state, but it is important to consider the practicalities and cost of changes you may wish to make.
And finally, remember the house itself, professional riders such as showjumpers, eventers and racehorse trainers will often settle for a home of modest quality, their priorities being the location and facilities for their horses. For recreational riders the house is often very important. Some buyers favour a traditional character farmhouse, whilst others seek a modern, bright eco-friendly modern house. We recommend equestrian buyers to remain flexible in their approach as equestrian properties are not in plentiful supply and improvements can always be made at a later date. We work closely with our other specialist teams at Luscombe Maye and can offer advice on planning and diversification.
Our specialist equestrian department is based in our Modbury office and supports all seven of Luscombe Maye’s South Hams offices with a further office near Exeter that encompasses the Teign Valley, Mid Devon and the Dartmoor National Park. The team is made up of keen riders some who compete themselves, this means that we have a deep understanding of all things equestrian and can offer you accurate and practical advice to ensure that you make the right purchase.
Whether you are looking to buy or sell an equestrian property in Devon please give us a call, we would love to help you 01548 800153 or email Sara at equestrian@luscombemaye.com.
