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Horse Farms for Sale in NC - What You Need to Know
Owning your own horse farm can be a dream come true. But if you’re new to purchasing property for horses, you’ll want to consider the variables involved in choosing the right property for both you and your animals. Please see below for some helpful information to help you with your search. If you're just looking for horse property for sale in the Raleigh / Durham area, please scroll to the bottom of this page!
Finding What You Need
Your "why" is a crucial factor in finding the right property. Is it a hobby farm or do you plan to offer boarding and lessons? Will you need an indoor arena or a jump course? The answers to these questions will guide your options.
For horse owners it's important to consider the old saying: location, location, location. There is much more to consider beyond the ideal neighborhood. If you plan to run a business, you'll want visibility and accessibility. You'll also want to consider your family needs for shopping, school, and community events.
Before setting your heart on a particular area in North Carolina, be sure to check the following:
Zoning and Permits
Horse property buyers must be extremely careful to make sure that the property they're considering complies with local zoning laws. Ordinances will depend on your location and how you intend to use the property.
Some questions to ask:
- Do you need a permit to keep privately owned horses?
- If you plan to board horses or conduct a training center, will you need to submit a conditional use permit? Permits may depend on acreage, how many horses you own, and the services you offer.
- Does the city or county have minimum acreage requirements dependent on the number of horses you plan to keep?
- Are there any Covenant restrictions for horse keeping?
- Do the stables, barns, and other buildings have to meet specified aesthetic standards?
Double check when you’re told that the number of horses is "grandfathered" into your deed. It's possible that, if there's been a stretch of time with no horses on the property, you no longer qualify for the exemption.
A horse farm located in Chapel Hill, NC
Water and Drainage
The average horse drinks approximately 5-10 gallons of water per day, so a convenient, reliable and plentiful source of potable water is vital not only for the family home, but for your four-legged friends as well.
If there is an existing septic system and well, have both systems inspected, including the septic tank, leach fields, well pump and any associated equipment. Inadequate drainage can cause land to be muddy, which may increase falls or health problems. Ideally, visit the property shortly after a rainstorm to see where water accumulates.
In North Carolina we get a lot of rain and have watershed restrictions in some areas. Be sure to investigate water features and waterways to understand water rights and easements for any property. Protections may be in place for natural bodies of water that will require certain setbacks and fencing regulations.
Community
Residential development and urban sprawl can put pressure on land use, so be aware of your preferred community's plans for development. Trail upkeep and land use regulations currently in place are subject to change. Make sure to check for any recent decisions that will impact your ability to use your horse property the way you want.
Buildings
The number of outbuildings will depend on your plans for the farm. Here are some options to consider:
- Run-in shed: Each pasture should have a run-in shed for shade, protection from rain, and shelter from intense wind.
- Horse Stable or barn: If you need to build your own, check up on the county permitting process. And find out if your neighborhood has a design review board you have to go through before finalizing your plans.
- Tack room: Almost as important as the stables, you'll want adequate storage for feed, saddles, bridles, blankets, and all the other equipment required for grooming and riding.
- Equipment shed: Storing farm vehicles and equipment separate from the animals can minimize the risk of fire and injury to your horses.
And of course, there's your house! What type of home is best for your family? How close to the barn would you like to be? There's no standard for your equestrian estate! You're only limited by local regulations.
A 4 acre property with horse facilities in Raleigh, NC
Where to Look for Horse Property
Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and surrounding areas offer a variety of horse properties for sale. Whether you prefer a neighborhood community built especially for horses or are looking to purchase extensive acreage, there are plenty of great opportunities in NC to find the property best suited to your needs. Pricing-wise we also have a range of inexpensive horse farms all the way up to luxury horse properties costing several million.
Planned Horse Communities
These neighborhoods below are established as equine communities in North Carolina. They foster a country feel while maintaining close-to-town convenience.
Black Horse Run
With locations near both Raleigh and Durham, the Black Horse Run communities offer an ideal place where you can have it all. Homeowners have access to a community barn (although many residents have private barns on their properties) plus a riding ring and riding trails. The neighborhoods are equestrian-focused but offer other common resources, such as a pool, clubhouse, tennis and basketball courts, playgrounds and picnic areas with grills.
Portofino
Portofino, located in Johnston County, is a gated community with amenities including a swimming pool, clubhouse, and over seven miles of trails. The Portofino Equestrian Center is adjacent to the community and offers boarding, training, lessons, and events and shows.
Other communities that support horse ownership include The Trails in Chapel Hill and Saddle Run in Fuquay Varina. See below for a complete list of current active inventory we have in North Carolina.
Building
Sometimes it's tough to find that perfect horse property, and you must either build or customize a current home on acreage to fit your needs. Check out our Large Land Tracts page, our Homes for Sale on Acreage page, and our Homes for Sale with Ponds pages for extra options.
Your Personal Concierge for Horse Farm Ownership in NC
As you can see, horse farm ownership in North Carolina can be complicated - it’s a specific niche in real estate! Fortunately, we have a horse farm specialist on our team, Malia Jarrett.
Malia grew up on a farm in Oklahoma and has been riding since she was 2. “I’ve been riding and showing horses my whole life,” she says. She currently lives on a horse farm in Person County with her husband, four children, two horses, goats, and a pony.
“I love to put on boots and a ball cap and go visit a property and check out every inch and every acre,” she says. “What I offer my clients is a keen eye for detail. I never want my clients to say, ‘oh, I wish I had known that.’ My goal is to make it as easy as possible for clients.”
Properties that Allow Horses Around Raleigh / Durham
ULTIMATE COUNTRY LIVING on more than 3 Acres! Convenient to GASTON and KERR LAKES. NO HOA!!! Don't miss this 3+ ACRE PARCEL w/ both open & wooded areas. Perfect investmen...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2475214 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
For Sale “As-Is†$225k: 305 Bowers Rd. 2bdr 2b ranch house, with 2 bonus rooms on 7+ acres 1 mi from Plank Rd & 211. Land is equestrian friendly. Remodel needs to be ...
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- LP693841 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Large brick ranch near Red Oak that includes 6 acres & allows horses! This 4 bedroom, 3 full bath home is situated just outside of Red Oak on 3.54 acres & includes an add...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2492271 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Kerr Lake Region Historic home with about 15 ACRES . This pastoral setting consists of About 15 Acres with pastures, and woods bordering the Corps land.Restore the classi...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2322527 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Come take a look at this very nice secluded completely remodeled 3 bed 2 full bath Ranch.It is nestled off the beaten path in Northern Granville County.This 5 acre jewel ...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2490615 MLS
- COMING SOON Status
A few improvements completed and its back on the market. 1976 Sq foot home nestled in 4.72 acres, wooded lot with plenty of room for a garden or walk in the woods, minut...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2473619 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Beautiful farmhouse on 1.34acre mini farm close to Carolina Horse Park! Amazing plan with sweeping front porch and lrg covered patio. Upgraded kitchen features island, qu...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- LP695915 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Beautiful home with modern hip roof 1.34 acre, close to Carolina Horse Park! Amazing plan with large front porch and rear covered patio. Upgraded kitchen features island,...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- LP695917 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Beautiful home with modern hip roof 1.34 acre, close to Carolina Horse Park! Amazing plan with large front porch and rear covered patio. Upgraded kitchen features island,...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- LP695919 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Great brick home in Sanford located on 5.8 acres. Horse farm opportunity! Two stall barn, fenced pasture, round pin storage & more. Easy commute to Fayetteville, Raleigh ...
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2483227 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Buyer changed mind, back on market. Major price improvement makes this lovely home a great buy. Get away from it all in this sweet little farmhouse! Nestled up a country ...
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2474174 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Owner Custom Built for his PARENTS! Notice the Quality as you pull in. Stamped Concrete Drive & Walkway. Covered Porches w/ Beaded Board Ceilings in Front & Rear. Even ha...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2476720 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Classic Cape Cod cottage on 3 acre lot, that includes cedar siding, copper piping, and a metal roof. This home is located on a private road, in an 8 home subdivision with...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2488089 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Wow! On almost 6 acres, this 3-bedroom home with WRAP-AROUND PORCH boasts over 2200 square feet of unfinished garage and storage space! 5+ spaces for parking, plus an unf...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2492258 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
MINI FARM! Bring your chickens, horses, goats and more. Charming one-level home has been completely remodeled. Home has LVP flooring throughout — no carpet. Wood burning ...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2491614 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
BEAUTIFUL To Be Built, New Construction, Pre-Sale Home! The Badin Plan Offers 4 Bedrooms, 2 and a Half Baths, Breakfast Room, Separate Dining Room, Office, Kitchen, Livin...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2489514 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
**AMAZING "7 IN 1" PROPERTY!** Includes: 1. HOUSE: 1451 sf, 3BR/2BA All Brick Ranch w/ 2 Car Carport. 2. FULL BASEMENT: 1,020 sf, Unfinished, Daylight, Walk-in w/ Sump Pu...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2483522 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Stunning, 3bed 3.5bath + 2 offices/flex original-owner custom craftsman home. This chic farmhouse residence sits on over 2 acres and has been thoughtfully updated. Enjoy ...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2477474 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Gorgeous one-level living in a beautiful country-like setting with almost 4 acres. This home is like-new throughout with attention to every detail. Amazing rocking-chair ...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2474554 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
You feel like you are in a park! Sustainable living on this Chatham Co. farm w/ fruit trees, fruit bearing plants, wildlife & garden areas. River Frontage on Deep River w...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2477569 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
This gorgeous Prairie Style Frank Lloyd Wright home is waiting for you...8 acres of privacy bordering Grassy Creek with no restrictions & move-in ready...Featuring a sepa...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2492002 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Completely fenced farmette consists of 6.1 unrestricted acres so bring your horses! Two-story home has over 2200 sq ft, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bath and office space. Kitchen ha...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2482455 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
This 11.8 acres features a 3 bedroom brick ranch home, a large 8 stall barn and fenced perimeter with fence sections for livestock or farming. This is a two lot parcel co...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2485778 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Price Adjusted! Amazing updated home in Black Horse Run! Bring your HORSES!! Private cul-de-sac lot w/over an acre & room for stables. New roof, new windows, freshly pain...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2474573 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Prestine home! Gorgeous 5 acres with fenced garden & 3-6x36 raised , organic garden beds. Each with own water hydrant. 3 more hydrants around property. Open land could ...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2492164 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Check out this beautiful 3bed/ 3 bath brick home, sitting on 20.44 acres with a pond. Need an equine Ready facility for boarding or training this is your place! The home ...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- LP697191 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Beautiful, fully renovated ranch-style farmhouse just outside of downtown Bunn, NC about 35 minutes outside of Raleigh. House was fully renovated and expanded in 2021. Br...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2488754 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
HORSE FARM!! with Charming, 3 Bedroom/2 Bathroom RANCH on approx. 30.2(+/-) Acres in Caswell Co. Fenced Pastures, 19.5x12.7 Equipment shed, 4 Stall horse Barn and 3 stall...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2470222 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Beautiful modern farmhouse presale on wooded 3.3 acres in new countryside neighborhood in the Silk Hope area. Primary suite on main floor w tile shower & tile surround ga...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2468294 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Private yet close to everything- this hidden gem is a must see!! Spacious custom built executive home in a quiet country setting. Huge master suite with 2 walk ins, gour...
- 2 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2484036 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
One of a kind colonial home with all brick exterior, 5 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms and 1 half bath. Plus a bonus room and office/flex room. Excellent floorplan with beauti...
- 5 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2470671 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Wonderful opportunity for PRIVATE COUNTRY LIVING with NO HOA, low country taxes and yet CLOSE TO EVERYTHING - less than 5 min to downtown Clayton & Hwy 70, 12 min to I40,...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2491217 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Must see residential, hunting, & investment property located just minutes from Reidsville. This rare offering includes 2 homes, equipment building, several other outbuild...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2448759 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Magnificent custom built home in quiet gated community with rare 10 acre lot. 5 BRs, 4.5 baths, newly completed bonus room. Master is down, features double walk in closet...
- 5 Beds
- 5 Baths
- 2491251 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
BRING YOUR HORSES-5.4 acres-private lot - NO HOA! This Farmhouse home plan is perfect! Private country setting! 3 bed + Bonus! Upgraded kitchen cabinets, granite countert...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2486428 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
REMARKABLE LOCATION for this Beautiful BRICK HOME on 18 ACRES! Set back from the Road by a Decompressing Private Driveway, with Country as far as you can see! Custom Bui...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2489780 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
This CUSTOM 3900 square foot BEAUTY sits perfectly on 10 ACRES. One owner, BUILDERS home. Triple GARAGE and storage. Expansive BONUS room with wet bar. OFFICE. Separate D...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2463864 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Horse Farm, Fisherman's Paradise, Natural Retreat... You will fall in love with this 22 acre serene property just outside Louisburg, NC. Privacy &gorgeous water views are...
- 3 Beds
- 5 Baths
- 2486318 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Situated on 24+ acres in Rougemont, the original 1876 farm house was fully renovated & remodeled in 2005. Simply one of the most unique properties to hit the market, this...
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2486589 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Remodeled luxury estate is meticulous with 6 acres and just a minute off 501. Meander through the gorgeous front porch to a glorious home full of details & beautiful hard...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2487085 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Approximately 39 acres. Historic Branch Grove circa 1828 is very significant in NC local and state history. One of only a few remaining tripartite houses, it’s been home ...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2450064 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Own a piece of Dunn History! Family Farmstead has Country Charm and City Convenience. 60+ acre spread includes Jernigan Pond with Mill House, 4 bedroom custom...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2439756 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Beautiful, peaceful, remote yet convenient. Modern limewashed all brick farmhouse on 10+ acres 8 min. to Mebane, 25 min to Duke. Walls of windows allow you to enjoy past...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2485842 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Beautiful custom-built brick home w/elegant finishes on nearly 6 private acres! 4 CAR garage! 5000 sqft pole barn-bring your HORSES! Hardwood floors & extensive trim work...
- 5 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2467604 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Operating Gentleman's Farm on 10+ acres of land with abundant wildlife! Fenced pasture land and 44x24 barn built in 2014. Home offers a transitional design with full cove...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2477377 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Island Drive Oasis! 1.5 Story Luxury Home on 6 Acres Outside of Greensboro. Main Level 5 Bedrooms/4 Full Baths. Large Bonus & Half Bath Upstairs. Upgraded Features Includ...
- 5 Beds
- 5 Baths
- 2490733 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
So many possibilities with this property! 15.847 acres of property and surrounded on 3 sides by US Army Corps Land on Jordan Lake. Property features 3 separate fields, 2....
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2476126 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Your "castle" awaits on 122 ACRE FARM .This Custom 3+ Bedroom, 4.5 Bath home features a 6 sided turret to truly make your fairy tale ending come true! The Farm features P...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2483193 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Do you dream about serenity and gentle country living in a prestigious enclave close to town? Come to Hickory Downs, a 40 Homesite Community, . This gorgeous under-const...
- 5 Beds
- 6 Baths
- 2476884 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Significant price reduction! Owners relocating and ready to sell. Come home to historic charm plus more contemporary living spaces, the best of both! The restored Ira E...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2475960 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Beautiful All Brick Estate Home on 22+-acres of Privacy.Soaring Entry Foyer with windows to the 20' ceiling in the living room and views off the vaulted wood bead board ...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2476602 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Stunning Contemporary Style Estate on 36+ Acres! 3BD/3BA. Family Room features Cathedral Ceilings, Brick Fireplace & Access to Oversized Deck Overlooking Stocked Pond. Ch...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2467546 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Fully updated Farmhouse with 5 bed septic, large workshop, detached garage and more!! Beautiful updates inside and out with custom finishes, But you can't help but want t...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2488651 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
RETREAT! Sleek Phil Szostak-designed single-level CONTEMPORARY MODERN MASTERPIECE on 11 private acres just mins from DT Hillsborough * INSULATING CONCRETE FORM (ICF) cons...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2462488 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Incredible 70 acres with 1300 sq.ft. ranch. Imagine YOUR OWN custom home, horse farm, game preserve and piece of heaven. Very productive hunting featuring deer, turkey,...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2478856 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Special Offering in Hunt Country Properties adjoining the Walther Moss Foundation's North County! Gracious 6068 sq ft 5 bedroom, 5 bath residence on 19+acres with 9 stall...
- 5 Beds
- 6 Baths
- LP694144 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
A true one of a kind opportunity to own a rare and extraordinary "Landmark Historic Property." This sprawling 23-acre estate in the heart of Haw River is truly a magical ...
- 5 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2462554 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
54 acres 10 min to Chapel Hill, 5 min to Cane Creek Lake, 15 MHP sites w/private septics & community well. Small two bedroom, 1 bath 1937 home has been rented, now vacan...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2474863 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
One-of-a-kind estate situated on 20.44 beautiful acres! Attention HORSE LOVERS! 10 Stall Horse Barn Shed & Riding Ring! Spend time relaxing by the Salt Water Pool with Po...
- 2 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2479907 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
This luxurious estate home is tucked away in nature’s sanctuary in Wake County, bordering West Cary and Apex, and backing up to the Corps of Engineer Land for Jordan Lake...
- 4 Beds
- 5 Baths
- 2478796 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Executive Farm w/Custom Renovated Home, Barns, Cabins, Shop, Fenced Pastures & NINE Acre Lake! One-of-a-Kind Chatham County Dream Property now used as a Camp with Substan...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2475080 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Truly spectacular 70 acre equestrian estate! Featured in "Old Houses New Magazine", this gothic revival home features reclaimed historical elements from The Plaza Hotel a...
- 5 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2485690 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Famed Butler Farm, known for its world class Arabian horse facilities, is for sale! Includes stately custom main residence and 66-stall, state-of-the-art brick & block ba...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2446564 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Bella Woods: Beauty, Privacy, Quality, Security. Situated deep within 187 acres of mature hardwoods. 3BR/6.5BA, w additional bed/bath above garage. Constructed from 100+ ...
- 4 Beds
- 7 Baths
- 2451912 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Listings provided courtesy of Triangle MLS, Inc. of NC, Internet Data Exchange Database. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. © 2023 Triangle MLS, Inc. of North Carolina. Data last updated .