So, you’ve finally decided to do it! You’re going to buy that little place in the country you’ve always dreamed about. You, your family and your horses will be under one roof at last. You’re looking forward to the joy of waking up each morning and looking out the window at your horses in their paddocks waiting for breakfast. If you work at home you’ll be able to pause between tasks to gaze out the window at you equine buddies happily grazing away in grassy pastures. Now you’ll be able to carefully monitor their weight, look after their health on a daily basis and keep their stall as clean as a whistle. Riding will be handier since you’re “right there.”
Perhaps you’re even hoping to save a little money on expenses since you’ll be doing things yourself now. And besides, I bet there’s someone in your family who’s always wanted to drive a tractor!
While all of this may be true, there is another side to consider. Having your horse at home means that YOU are now totally responsible for your horse’s well being; no one else is going to be keeping an eye on him. While riding may be easier to accomplish some days, what about the days when it’s cold, rainy and there’s no covered or lighted arena? Or what will it be like when your riding buddies aren’t there to encourage or accompany you?
What about vacations and times you’re called away? If you and your family want to take off for a weekend or a few weeks do you have someone to provide adequate care for your horses while you’re gone? And as far as saving money -- after you consider the time and cost of buying, building and repairing things such as fences, arenas, barns, shelters, equipment, and hay storage... well, it all may be looking a little less glamorous now. And, are you sure you are ready to tackle this 24/7 job of horse and horse farm management?
If you remain un-daunted and this warning sounds like fun to you -- then stay tuned! The home in the country with your horses may be calling for you! In this article series we are going to go over some general points to help you in the decision-making process before you buy your new horse place and while you are still shopping.
NEXT MONTH: In Part 2, starting from the ground up, we’ll look at some of the important natural features to consider when shopping for a new home in the country.
