Being a horse owner adds a level of excitement to the home search process, because there’s much more to consider than what the home itself has to offer. Ideally, properties will already feature a pasture where your horses can graze, along with a well-maintained barn to house your horses, riding gear and other essential equipment. But these aren’t always guarantees, so it’s important to look for a property that can accommodate your needs. Consider these top four tips from Terrie Cox, RE/MAX Equity Group when seeking the perfect equestrian luxury property.

1. Work with an experienced real estate Broker.

The first step to any successful real estate transaction is choosing a qualified Broker. It’s essential that you research area Realtors and don’t hesitate to ask questions about their experience. If they’re unclear about the unique demands of selling and buying equestrian properties, they can’t provide the support needed during the process. Instead, turn to a World-Ranked Broker like Terrie Cox. With more than 30 years of experience in Pacific Northwest real estate, including numerous equestrian properties, Terrie has the insight, network and tools needed to help you find the property of your dreams.

2. Understand the land.

The quality of the land itself is of paramount importance when it comes to finding an equestrian property. To ensure that your horses can wander around the pasture comfortably, select a property with adequate drainage – you’ll typically want at least a slight slope. Plus, gauge the health of the property’s plant life. This can serve as an indicator of the soil quality, which can affect the land’s ability to accommodate nutritious vegetation.

3. Consider local rules and regulations.

You’re likely aware that properties housing large animals, including horses, are frequently affected by local rules and regulations. Even so, it’s critical to check into the finer points of the community’s rules and zoning requirements. If you’re scouting a property that seems like a prime location for a future barn, for example, check to ensure that such a structure would be permitted under the community’s regulations. Terrie Cox, a World-Ranked RE/MAX Broker, can help you with this step of the process.

4. Think about water.

Horses require a great deal of potable water. If the property you’re considering is connected to a municipal water supply, finding water for your horses won’t be an issue. But if you’re after a property that’s in a more secluded, rural location, this may not be the case, and a property with a stream or pond may be a major selling point.

5. Acknowledge your long-term goals.

The excitement of finding the perfect property may compel you to make what initially seem like minor sacrifices in favor of bringing your dream to life as soon as possible. However, if these sacrifices could hamper projects you’d like to complete in coming years, it may not be the right property after all. Consider how you’d like your property to look 10 years down the line – do you plan to include more horses or perhaps to expand the size of the pasture? Don’t settle for a property that limits your imagination.

Find the Right Property Today

Searching for an equestrian paradise in the Pacific Northwest? Turn to the professional guidance of Terrie Cox, RE/MAX Equity Group. Browse horse properties for sale in Oregon and Washington, or contact Terrie Cox today to begin your search.