“There are plenty of reasons why someone might be drawn to an equestrian property, and it’s not just horse owners who find them appealing,” says Chris Jarrett, Director, Cheltenham, who has seen a noticeable increase in demand in recent years. “In most cases, the buyer will already have horses and need the facilities that come with an equestrian property rather than rely on a livery yard,” adds Marcus Brown, Director, Taunton. “Other buyers might not be ‘horsey people’ but like the appeal of having the land and outbuildings for the amenity value.”
Reasons for investing in a home with equestrian facilities obviously include the ability to pursue horse-related activities – this type of property usually comes with ample space for animals to exercise and train and can be customised to specific needs, such as jumping or dressage. They offer a connection to nature as well as business potential. Owning an equestrian property can also open the door to a community of like-minded people who share a love of horses. “It’s also great to be in close proximity so you can check on horses early in the morning or late at night, or if they are sick,” adds Samantha Holmes, Senior Sales Negotiator, Newmarket. “Having your animals close makes it easier to meet their needs.”
Above:: Cadeleigh, Tiverton, Devon. Coombeland is a Listed farmhouse providing a very comfortable and characterful country house that takes full advantage of its lovely south facing position. The house is situated at the heart of the 150 acres and is accompanied by the adjoining six bedroom guest cottage, beside which the superb purpose-built stable yard with 14 loose boxes provides the core of the estate. £3,750,000.
Increased activity in the equestrian sector
Demand often outstrips supply, particularly in areas like the Cotswolds and Cheltenham, where horse culture is deeply rooted. “The demand encompasses both private buyers seeking properties for personal use and those looking to establish or expand equestrian businesses,” says Chris. “The Cotswolds has become a desirable area for the dressage community, with notable figures like Charlotte Dujardin and Carl Hester based near Newent and Ledbury. The area’s accessibility, combined with its natural beauty and established equestrian competition centres, continues to attract both local and national interest.”
Left: Upper Coberley, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire - a wonderful, detached period farmhouse with an exquisite Yiangou designed extension, a range of period outbuildings with potential, and about 20 acres, much of which is arranged as pasture with exercise arena and field shelters, located just to the south of Cheltenham. £2,950,000.
Samantha says that she has seen increased activity in the equestrian sector, both from those investing for business purposes, “breeding/ bloodstock, pre-training, retraining of racehorses or wanting to offer livery services,” and domestic buyers who are often looking for “a family property with 4-8 acres including paddocks with stables or outbuildings. We often see people who require the maximum amount of land but who only require a small dwelling for themselves. If you are a true equestrian, you would rather your horses have the best facilities and you will compromise on the house.”
Marcus adds that many buyers want a separate haybarn and a yard that is big enough to manoeuvre a horse box. “A manége can also be essential for the more avid horse rider, as well as direct access to further hacking from the property.” He advises equestrian buyers to register with Jackson-Stops as not everything goes online. “As the properties get bigger and more valuable, deals are done off-market.”
A unique opportunity
Chris adds, “general estate agents may not fully appreciate the specifics of equestrian properties. Working with someone who understands the lifestyle, facilities, and potential pitfalls will make the process much smoother.” He advises would-be buyers to be clear about their needs when starting their search: “Define exactly what you need. Are you looking for a private home with a couple of stables, or do you need a full livery yard with an arena? How much land is essential for your horses? Will you be keeping other animals? Having a clear vision will help focus your search.
Ultimately, equestrian properties will usually offer a unique combination of lifestyle, investment potential and countryside living.” And if you are considering putting your equestrian home on the market? “Always ensure that paddocks look their best, a buyer doesn’t want to see aerial shots of paddocks that are damaged from the winter months or overgrazing. Ensure that general maintenance and tidiness of the yard are to a high standard. If you have any covenants or restrictions on the property that may affect a buyer’s borrowing, be transparent from the start,” advises Samantha.
Above: Stone Lodge Equestrian Centre, Jaques Bank, Near Doncaster - a well-appointed modern equestrian yard that includes owners and grooms accommodation, together with excellent equestrian facilities that are set around a large quadrangle including 20 Monarch stables, 6 timber stables, tack and feed stores and a solarium. £1,195,000.
Jackson-Stops are experts in equestrian property sales and offer all types of property including racing yards, livery yards, equestrian centres, houses with stables and paddocks and equestrian land. Our clients range from seasoned racehorse trainers and successful eventers to families with paddocks for ponies. Making the right choice is crucial, and at Jackson- Stops we look after every aspect of an equestrian property sale.
Considering selling your equestrian property? Please get in touch with your local office: www.jackson-stops.co.uk/branches
