As the national real estate markets begin to heat up once again, what’s in store for equine enthusiasts looking to buy horse properties? Breeders, ranchers, and riders need to stick to a short checklist that includes commonsense advice about infrastructure, obtaining financing for vet services, hiring competent inspectors, zoning, HOA rules, and more. The upside is that US suburbs are trending toward being equine friendly after decades of resisting the inevitable. Still, prospective landowners must be diligent as they determine the course of action before putting hard-earned money on the line. Here is a cheat sheet about how to proceed.
Deal With Pertinent Legal Issues
There’s no better way to avoid potentially costly disputes and legal issues than to think ahead. That means getting a zoning letter or the proper land classification from your city’s or county’s planning department. Make sure it confirms, in explicit writing, that horse keeping is permitted on the tract. Likewise, check the fine print on any setbacks, storm water rules, or density regulations that could interfere with your usage plans.
To further safeguard yourself against potential liability issues, you may also consider establishing a formal legal structure, such as forming an LLC, which can help separate your personal assets from the risks associated with horse-related activities and provide an added layer of protection.
Additionally, clarify everything by speaking with HOA board members and asking them what is and is not allowed on the property, how fines are assessed, and how they govern structural changes. If you intend to host lessons, board any number of animals, or put on special events, confirm relevant allowances and fees now, not later. The goal here is to prevent surprise liens and permit requirements so you don’t run into extra expenses or restrictions.
Get Vet Financing
Why is veterinary financing such a big deal for future property owners? First, it’s ethical to make sure that all animals under your supervision get the care and attention they deserve. Equine enthusiasts and owners of household pets can do just that with veterinary payment plans that are affordable. Getting routine services and critical treatments can get expensive. For costs up to $35,000, be sure to sign up for a plan that lets you spread those costs for up to 60 months into manageable monthly payments.
There are even no interest plans, known as 0% APR options, that make it simple and painless for vet clients to get quick approval and for practitioners to expand their customer base. That’s a win-win for everyone involved and makes equine ownership and care an expense anyone can deal with. Humans who take care of animals have a special, sacred responsibility to minimize illness and promote long-term health in their special companions. Financing plans are the smart choice in today’s economy.
Find the Right Inspectors
There’s no real secret to avoiding hidden costs and safety risks associated with property ownership. The basic rule is to do multiple inspections. Start by hiring a facility inspector who examines drainage, overall land layout, stalls, and turnout areas. Talk with the professional to make certain that your place meets animal needs and all local safety standards. Now is the time to catch problems that can easily elude casual checklist inspections.
Other components of a thorough job in this regard include soil testing and drainage sufficiency in all turnout areas to spot parasite risks, potential erosion, and mud-related issues that can impact equine comfort and hoof health. Get a professional assessment about manure management, containment of runoff, and general water quality. That’s the wisest way to minimize pests, unwanted odors, and unsightly water buildup. Inspections go a long way toward being a good neighbor to your fellow landowners.
Know Your Infrastructure
If you look to purchase land near a metro area, like the outskirts of Phoenix or Kansas City, infrastructure is a major concern. It affects the daily operation of the property. Start by making a list of driving times to feed suppliers, an emergency clinic, veterinarians, and farriers. Inquire about response and typical treatment times, then add that data to the list. From there, find out what on-site amenities are ready to go and which ones need work, including wash racks, round pens, tack rooms, and arena lights.
Confirm that pasture rotation is available within a short distance and that after hours or on call services are accessible. You don’t want routines disrupted by urgent farrier or vet needs. In terms of common sense, the whole idea is about being prepared. To make everyday life stress-free and predictable, make an effort to see that all the pieces of the ownership puzzle are connected and in place.
Make a Detailed Budget
To keep the property sustainable, make a long-term and short-term budget. Forecast cash flow, allocate improvement funds, plan for routine maintenance, and create an emergency account for surprise expenses. Develop a 12-24 month budget that includes costs associated with unexpected repairs, feed purchases, farrier fees, and veterinarian charges.
