Whether owning a horse farm was a childhood dream of yours or perhaps a consideration for an investment property, there is no better place to be a horse farmer than in Aiken, South Carolina. Regardless of your motive and your experience level with horses, this is not a decision to enter into lightly. Horses and farms upon which they live require constant care and are very time-intensive. Here are the things that you need to know before buying a horse farm for sale in Aiken, South Carolina.
Know about horses
Horses come in a variety of breeds and their bodies are built to perform different functions well. Some horses are fast. Others are exceptionally strong, created for pulling and hauling. Others have gentle temperaments that make them an excellent fit for therapeutic uses. Within each breed of horse, there are standards of excellence that set some apart as exceptional. Knowing what type of horse you want to own is a vital first step before falling in love with one of these majestic four-legged animals.
Ask yourself the following questions to help you make your decision:
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How do you plan to enjoy your horse?
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What type of temperament do you need this horse to possess?
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Who will be riding this horse?
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How much time and energy is consistently needed to care for this horse, and how will its needs be met?
A horse purchased for your family's enjoyment does it need to be to the same standards as one that you intend to train as a racehorse or has performed in dressage competitions.
One of the best ways to get acquainted with horses, their personalities, and their needs, is to simply spend time with those who have made a career or a lifestyle out of horse ranching or horse training. Arrange to spend time at a horse ranch. Observe the work and care that goes into the facility, the grounds, and the horses themselves. Ask as many questions as you can about the horses. Spend time with the animals themselves, grooming, caring for them, and familiarizing yourself with the unique ways that humans and horses interact.
Know the real estate market
The housing market in Aiken continues to be strong in 2022. Over the course of this year, the pace of home sales has accelerated. The average home takes 82 days to sell, which is more than a third faster than it was just a year ago. Listing prices for homes have increased 15% in the last year and Aiken real estate shows no sign of slowing down in the face of rising inflation and interest rates. Moss Real Estate can provide you with up-to-the-minute details and comparable real estate values.
Know the costs
Purchasing a horse farm for sale in Aiken, South Carolina is a considerable investment. There are both obvious and hidden costs, as well as opportunity costs and they must be evaluated carefully before making a commitment.
Horses are needy creatures. They need quality feed, a barn with ample space to hold all of their equipment as well as to give them a safe place to stay out of the elements. They require large amounts of land in which to roam, and regular visits with the veterinarian to keep the horses sound and healthy, a farrier to keep their hooves in good repair. There is tack to purchase, as well as a trailer and truck for transport if you intend to take your horse anywhere beyond your own farm. Young or unruly horses may require training, and depending on the size of your farm and your available time to work it, you may need to hire a team to help with the responsibilities of your farm.
It is also a wise idea to have insurance for the horse, both for liability and for the horse’s own needs. Also, consider that because horses need daily care there may be some sacrifices required in order for you to properly care for your horse. Owning a farm means that you are far more tied to the land than you may have been before, and taking long vacations far from home may not be easy to do.
Know your lifestyle
There are several options for horse farms for sale in Aiken, South Carolina. Carefully assessing the way that your family lives, including your pace of life, your ability to attend to the maintenance of the barn and grounds, and the amount of time you have available to devote to your farm will dramatically impact your decision-making process. Horse farm ownership is a fully engaged lifestyle if you opt to do it all independently. Thankfully, in Aiken, you have plenty of options available to do a horse farm your way.
Master-planned horse community
Master-planned communities are a hallmark of suburban living, but in Aiken, the amenities are one-of-a-kind. Some, such as Three Runs Plantation, feature miles of horse trails wandering through the residential development. There is also a schooling area and a dressage arena. These amenities are in addition to the standard community clubhouse, pool, and fitness center. At Anderson Farms, families can learn all about agriculture and animal husbandry at the community farm and gardens, as well as enjoy fishing, kayaking, and hiking in a picturesque nature preserve. Tod’s Hill similarly features riding trails, a horse barn, and tranquil outdoor spaces.
Established horse farms
Select from among a variety of plantation-style or traditional farmhouse residences with ample acreage for all of your four-legged friends to roam. Already established farms make for a quicker relocation and can often be a time-saver as you are able to acquire the home, barn, and land all as a package deal.
Build your own paradise
Nothing builds confidence and pride in home ownership quite like planning your perfect home and watching it develop from blueprints to a finished product. Begin with a home design in mind, and then seek the land you want that can also accommodate the farm you want to build. Building a custom home may take a bit longer and cost more, but the result will be a one-of-a-kind residence that your family can enjoy for generations.
Know when the time is right
Are you ready to fulfill your dreams of owning a horse farm in Aiken, South Carolina? If so, reach out to Lisa Moss of The Moss Realty Group to answer all of your questions and help you find the perfect new home for all of the members of your family. Her personalized approach to clients and her savvy business sense equip her to perfectly help with all of your real estate needs. Call her today at (770) 880-5619.
Recommended Reading: 8 Best Neighborhoods to Live in Aiken
Recommended Reading: 8 Best Neighborhoods to Live in Aiken
