If you’re tired of having non-horsey neighbors, an equestrian community can solve that issue. But before you look into moving in, you’ll want to consider the pros and cons of life in an equestrian community. Is an equestrian community right for you?

Safety

One of the major advantages of living in an equestrian community is the safety that it provides for both owners and horses. Since most everyone in the community will be horse people, it’s easy to find someone knowledgeable to help you if your horse ever has an emergency. Drivers should know how to act safely when you and your horse are riding alongside the road. And rather than keeping your horse at a barn in a secluded spot, there will be plenty of people around to notice if your horse has an emergency while you’re not at home.

Convenience

Living in an equestrian community means that you’ll always have your horses close by. Some communities also offer shared facilities, like groomed trails or cross country courses. You’ll be neighbors with other riders, so finding someone to ride or train with shouldn’t be a problem. And, if the community offers a central barn, you can full board your horse and not have to worry about his daily care.

Cost

Living in an equestrian community can be expensive, which is one of the major downfalls. In addition to purchasing the land and the house, you will have to pay annual fees to the community, which cover its upkeep and function. If you board your horse at a central barn, board will be in addition to these fees. When deciding if an equestrian community is right for you, be sure to list out all of the expenses involved.

Equestrian Network

While it can be great to build a network of equestrian connections, when you live in an equestrian community you are close neighbors with those people. There are bound to be differences of opinion, and some people might find the community setup stifling. Bringing in an outside trainer or attending an outside clinic are ways that you can circumnavigate the smallness that can arise from an equestrian community.

Community Restrictions

Equestrian communities usually have very strict restrictions on building, renovating, and other visual aspects of your property that you must agree to follow. It’s important to fully understand these restrictions before you move in. You may find that the renovations and changes you wanted to make to your barn or pastures are not allowed; if you’re someone who enjoys the total freedom to custom build your dream barn, life in an equestrian community might not be right for you.

So, what do you think? Does an equestrian community appeal to you?

Image Source: flickr.com/photos/visitlakeland/7243043424

Original Source: Is an Equine Community Right for You?  By Classic Equine Equipment