4 Things You Need to Know Before Buying a Horse Farm in Florida
You might think property hunters in Florida are searching for sun, sea, and sand, but there’s a whole world of people looking, quite literally, for greener pastures. Florida’s Marion County has long been known as the horse capital of the world, and buyers from all over the country are looking to invest.
However, purchasing a luxury property suitable for an equestrian lifestyle isn’t the same as buying a standard home, or even another farm. Whether you’re looking for a private estate, professional training center, or another equine facility, there are several factors to consider before taking the leap. Here’s what you need to know before buying a horse farm in Florida.
Finding the Right Location
As with other property types, location is everything. Not all parts of Florida were created equally when it comes to horse-friendly land, so choosing the right area depends on your specific needs, wants, and goals.
When you’re exploring farms for sale FL, focusing on Ocala will ensure you access to world-class equestrian infrastructure. This area boasts rich pastures, unparalleled veterinary care, and top events like the Grandview Invitational, Live Oak International, and HITS Ocala Winter Circuit.
Land Quality and Pasture Management
Keeping your horses healthy, safe, and comfortable is a priority. A horse farm requires specific land conditions, including adequate soil drainage, proper grass quality, and a mix of open and protected areas.
The ideal soil should be slightly loamy and have the right balance of water drainage and retention to avoid overly dry or muddy pastures. In Florida’s warm climate, the best grass for horses is Bahiagrass or Bermuda grass. You should have enough shade (natural or otherwise) to offer cover from the intense sun and shelter from wet or windy weather.
Equestrian Facilities and Property Features
Buying a horse farm is about more than the land. While it is possible to purchase raw land and build from the ground up, there are plenty of properties on the market with infrastructure to support your horses, staff, and training programs.
The main features and facilities to look at are stables and barns, arenas, paddocks, training areas, fencing, tack and feed rooms, and water supply (irrigation). Purchasing a well-equipped property might involve a large initial financial outlay, but it could save you time, money, and energy in the long run.
Local Climate Considerations
Florida’s hot and humid climate can be challenging for horses and their owners, especially when it comes to consistent access to large volumes of clean water for drinking. Some farms will come with natural springs or ponds, but most owners prefer deep wells that give them a reliable clean water supply.
Hurricane preparedness should also be a realistic concern. The Sunshine State’s hurricane season runs from June to November. When evaluating horse farms, check for storm-proof stables, a backup power system, and reinforced fencing. Lastly, always make sure there’s an evacuation route and plan.
Final Thoughts
Buying a horse farm in this gorgeous corner of the country is an exciting project, but it requires careful planning. Fortunately, Florida (and Ocala especially) is the epicenter of the horse industry. Consider the key factors mentioned in this Gator Rated article, and you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect horse farm in Florida’s equestrian paradise.
