Equestrian property buying guide

Buying equine property guide for horse stables, riding schools and equestrian centre

Before purchasing an equestrian property or riding centre business you need to think carefully of any requirements. Along with ensuring that you can easily afford the running costs and any repairs should they arrise. Starting or operating an existing equestrian business can be a huge financial commitment.

1) If you are looking to start-up a new equestrian business make sure you fully research the project to ensure the business plan is achievable especially in remote areas.

2) When purchasing an existing equestrian business or property including riding centres make sure you check the financial trading accounts and try to retrieve information on why they are selling.

3) Hiring the services of a professional property solicitor and accountant if you are looking to purchase an existing equestrian business is invaluable to ensure you are not miss-sold.

4) We strongly recommend you instruct a professional surveyor to assess the property before entering into a sale agreement. Avoid being left with a property that could be potentially worthless whilst draining your financial resources due to repairs.

5) Make sure you understand the tenure before entering any legal agreement. Different tenure can include: Freehold, Long term leasehold, Long term rental, Managed estate, Owner farm, Short term leasehold, Small holding or Tenant farm.

6) If you are looking to make changes ensure that planning permission and usage regulations compliance is achievable at the property with local authorities or government departments. Also assess the local area for future developments that could have a negative impact on your property or business.

7) Assess the location of the property with regards to transport access links including local veterinary practices and any bridle paths. Check the volume of traffic, if you are planning to ride the horses on the road to access none connected fields or paddocks within the property.

8) Ideally you will require around 2 acres per horse and access to an additional spare paddock to prevent overgrazing. When viewing a property don’t forget to check the paddock for shaded areas and sheltering.

9) Finally many buyers overlook checking the type of soil at the property. Free-draining land provides low maintenance especially during the colder winter months whilst providing safer ground for the horses. It’s also important to understand that heavy clay soil can be problematic whilst sandy ground soil can promote colic.

10) Don’t forget to check the most important accommodation the stables. If the horse’s are not happy you won’t be and this can have a real negative impact on your business. Especially when trying to attract new horse owners who may require stable accommodation.

11) Also make sure you are aware of the facilities and property features available. An indoor equestrian arena can be invaluable during the harsher winter months. To ensure your business is still fully operational, especially when providing riding lessons.