Three Things You Need To Do Before Purchasing A Horse Property
If you dream of owning a property where you can have your own horses, it is time to turn that dream into a reality. Before you start viewing available horse properties, it is important to do you research so that you can make an informed buying decision. Here are a few things to check off your to-do list.
1. Get All of the Structures on the Property Inspected
When purchasing real estate, it is common and even required in many cases to have a home inspection completed. However, when purchasing a horse property, you need to have every building or structure on the parcel inspected, including any barns, fences, or stables. As you search for a home inspector, look for a candidate who has experience evaluating agricultural structures. An inspection is essential to make sure that every structure is up to the local building code and to determine the true condition of each building.
2. Research the Local Laws for Your Municipality
It is essential to see if there are any laws that apply to the potential property that govern the ownership of animals. Make sure to look up both local and state laws so that you understand all of the regulations. For example, there may be a limit as to how many horses you can own. Or, you may be required to register your horse and pay an annual licensing fee.
If this is the first time that horses will be kept on the property, check local building restrictions to determine what steps are necessary to add a barn or stables. You may need to purchase a building permit to erect a new structure.
3. Consider How You Will Access the Property
Properties that are suitable for owning horses tend to have numerous acres of land so that the horses have room to roam. Sometimes, the properties are also fairly secluded. Make sure that you understand all of the points of access to the property. This can help you plan potential routes to your new home, and you can decide if additional safety measures are necessary to keep potential trespassers off your future land. For example, you may need to fence in a portion of the property that is easily accessible from a public road.
If your region regularly receives winter precipitation, see who is responsible for clearing back roads that lie on your property. Roads that are not state-maintained may require that you invest in equipment so that you can efficiently clear them after a snow storm.
Share