How to Make the Best Decisions When Buying a Horse Property
Horse ownership is a joy no matter where you live. Each area has its own unique horse community and vibe. Here in Alaska, we have wonderful horse communities. Each area in Alaska has its own horse keeping challenges. Throughout Alaska we have great trainers with varying disciplines. In Anchorage and Palmer, there are beautiful equestrian centers that have much to offer the horse community. Alaskans are provided tons of opportunities for rodeos, dressage, breed shows, hunter/jumpers, and trails to explore.
Despite being more remote, Alaska is able to provide access to the national brands for supplements, gear, and feed. There are some challenges to horse ownership in Alaska. It can be more expensive, and there are limited options when it comes to feed stores, horse shows and vets. These challenges bring the horse community closer together and they are willing to help each other and the horses. One way to keep your horses close and have options is to purchase your own horse property. How do you choose the right one?
Consider the condition of the barn
A barn is an important part of the property. You need to check the design of the hayloft, the size of the stalls, strength of the stall partitions and overall condition to see if the barn is functional for your needs.
How much space is provided?
Take a moment to evaluate how much land you need. Consider not only current needs, but also down the road. Your property should suit your needs and grow with you. Evaluate the space and determine if you will have enough acreage and won’t be limited on future use of the property.
Does the layout work for you?
Just as when buying a home, location is important and unchangeable, when buying a horse property layout is a major feature not easily changed. Your horse’s safety is top priority. If your property is in a rural area, it is advisable that the barn is located behind the house so that visitors must pass the house to access the horses. Taking the time to step back and consider the layout will help you to decide if this is the right property for you.
Is there enough storage?
Take a moment to consider the amount of storage options offered on the property. Are there sheds or buildings available for hay or equipment storage? Does the barn have enough space for storage?
Do you need a caretaker’s quarters?
If you decide to have a live-in caretaker to help with operations, especially with breeding, it’s important to investigate the best place to house them. If you barn is large enough, or if you have a separate apartment or house, hiring and retaining qualified staff with be much easier.
Have you considered the location?
If you purchase a property in a busy neighborhood, will you feel like you have enough privacy or safety? The advantage of a busier neighborhood would be increased visibility for a business. Consider what you are looking for in a property and make sure the horse property suits your needs.
Is there enough pasture?
After looking around the property does it have enough available pasture area to support the horses you plan on having? Are the pastures in good condition with quality grass? Look for any problem areas that may need to be managed and ways to cut hay costs by increasing the amount of available grass.
These factors when carefully considered will help you make the best decision and find the best horse property for your needs. If you’re looking for property in the Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and the Mat-Su Valley areas, we would be more than happy to assist!