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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
Stedman, NC (7351 Maxwell Rd) $104,900- Ranch home on 2.95 Acres w/ 3 Exterior Structures Great location-easy access to Town of Stedman, Fayetteville, Fort Bragg & Inters...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- LP701811 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
This Country Cottage Farm House is calling you "Home" to Kerr Lake Region! Adorable 3 Bedroom Home has lots of updates : Replacement Windows, Metal Roof & updated Outbuil...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2508086 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Restore this Grand Lady to her glory! This home was built around the Turn of the Century & had been used for overflow guests for the Buffalo springs Hotel. The current ow...
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2493231 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Enjoy the peace and quiet of 3+ acres with this easy-living ranch home! Natural light fills the open spaces throughout. The home has been well maintained and features a f...
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2513147 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
This is it! Just about 11 acres to build your farm on! On the Hoke/Moore county line! Custom designed home with soaring ceilings and windows! NO HOA! 3 bedroom, 2 full ba...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2500899 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Mini farm opportunity! Lots of room to grow here. Charming brick home currently offering 2 bedrooms, 1 full bath, and areas to finish. With unfinished space means you can...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2483227 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
***NOW ACTIVE*** GO AND SHOW!! Country Living at its BEST! 30 Minutes from Liberty and the new Toyota Battery complex!! Get this one before the value goes up even more! ...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2507271 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Back on the market due to buyer default, no fault of seller. Their loss, your gain!! Southern hospitality drips from this inviting ranch home on almost 9 UNRESTRICTED acr...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2498713 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
Newly Renovated And Updated, One Of A Kind Home All Brick Ranch, Offering 5 Bedrooms, Two Full Bathrooms And A Half Bathroom. Freshly Painted Throughout, Granite Countert...
- 5 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2513248 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
1.7 Acres of Country Living outside the quaint towns of Youngsville and Wake Forest. Main Level Living with a Full finished Basement/Workshop/Barn! There is a gracious si...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2512081 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Escape to a horse-friendly, tranquil country setting on a 1.6-acre unrestricted lot! This stunning 2-story home boasts a front porch, deck, spacious kitchen with SS appli...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2510381 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Price REDUCED! Farm Life! Private 7.7 Unrestricted Acreage, Horses Allowed! Plenty of room to Subdivide land. No city taxes NO HOA! Ranch Home originally built in 1948, c...
- 2 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2502400 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Country living at its best. Renovated in 2020 with pasture for cows, horses, chickens, zoned for agriculture. Enjoy the sunsets on the expansive front porch or curl up by...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2500132 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
For all my horse lovers this property welcomes horses! Gorgeous farmhouse sitting on over 6 acres! This is a must see!! Heart pine floors throughout the home with vaulte...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2510060 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Amazing opportunity to own your dream mini-farm in Orange County! Two-story all brick home, 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom with over 2600sf interior living space and 4.5 acres of ...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2512047 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Country paradise in the Falls Lake watershed, just 20 minutes to DPAC or Brier Creek. The ranch-style home features 2 bedrooms, a den, an open floor plan, a spacious kit...
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2513219 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to Brezzy Bottom Farm! This spectacular piece of paradise located on 13+ acres of land in rural Bear Creek with so much privacy & views. Outdoor living consists o...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2509516 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
Live the dream in this rare, exceptional and picturesque farmhouse on 20 beautiful sprawling acres. Bring the horses, donkey, goats or plan your next crop or garden nurse...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2511407 MLS
- COMING SOON Status
Pristine 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
Searching for Seclusion? This rustic Kuhn's Brothers rustic White Pine Log home sits on nearly 2 acres overlooking open undeveloped farm land. The views are AMAZING! Th...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2507142 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to 465 Gianna Dr in the prestigious Portofino equestrian gated community! This stunning ranch-style home boasts 4 spacious bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, providin...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2507392 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Wow!! Convenience of city living and peacefulness of country living in the heart of Reidsville. This beautifully updated brick ranch, ~3000 sf partially heated shop and a...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2509439 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Rare find!! Secluded country living on gorgeous 6 acre horse farm. Large wrap around porch welcomes you to this very open, spacious floor plan. Bright, sunny kitchen with...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2512281 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Farm Living at Its Finest! Bring your horses & enjoy country living! A 1-story farm house (being sold as-is) with a welcoming front porch & beautiful views of the big pon...
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2511777 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Build the Charleston or CHOOSE another plan on this gorgeous 2.4 ACRE level lot in beautiful Silk Hope. PROPOSED Home- Hard To Find NEW HOME at this price point with land...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2488092 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Have you been craving that peaceful retreat away from the hustle & bustle but only a short drive to Chapel Hill? With over 4 acres you'll be checking all your boxes! Your...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2513513 MLS
- COMING SOON Status
One-Of-A-Kind 9-Acre Mini-Farm Property Less Than 15 min. to Downtown Raleigh! Large Ranch On A Hill Overlooking Your Huge Pasture & Barn. Horses Allowed! Updated Ranch w...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2512345 MLS
- COMING SOON Status
Own a piece of history w/this amazing farm house built in 1885! You'll LOVE the beautiful private 2607 sq ft home w/detached 4-car garage/apartment w/additional kitchen &...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2505825 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
The Riverstone at Fox Oak on 4+ wooded acres is a pre-sale new home (including the lot) in pre-construction process on a cul de sac in a new Pittsboro countryside custom ...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2512702 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
BRING HORSES!!! So much to say about this property-Open Floorplan-HDWDS throughout downstairs-Separate Dining has wainscotting & Tray Ceiling-Kitchen w/ Custom Cabinets, ...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2494201 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
*Bring your horses* Gorgeous 3 bedroom/3.5 bath brick home with finished bonus rm & horse! Buck, the horse, has grown up on the property & would love to stay! This homes ...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2504137 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Two private lots have been combined into 14.5 acres of serene breathtaking oasis. This one of a kind log cabin with water views and fenced horse pastures is move in ready...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- LP704435 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Gorgeous & immaculate privately gated horse farm with modern 3-bed, 3.5-bath home with large bonus room. 4 stall center-aisle barn, pro riding arena, tucked away for tota...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2509285 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
Mini Farm with stunning newly renovated BARNDOMINIUM. 6.5 acres! Rare find. The stable on the ground level features a concrete center aisle with 8 stalls, tack room, hay/...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2495715 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Make your own little Yellowstone a reality with this rare opportunity! Amazing find, gated and fenced 4.27 secluded acreage, Ranch home with saltwater pool, outside showe...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2512053 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
On of a kind find located on 3.67 unrestricted Acres!! All Brick updated transitional style home plus sep guest house w/2 BRS & 2 full baths! Updates to primary: Fresh in...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2492804 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Take a look at this beautiful home! Over 30 acres of land located in Marston, NC! This home offers a long private drive that brings you to a fenced in front yard with 2 s...
- 4 Beds
- 5 Baths
- LP704121 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
Proposed Construction build your dream home on a 25 Acre lot which stretches through hardwoods, pines, blue skies and meadows. Build this home with a 3 CAR GARAGE Ranch H...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2503283 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
FABULOUS 5+ ACRE RETREAT with beautiful custom-built brick home. Bring your horses & livestock or simply enjoy the serene country setting. Elegant features, extensive tri...
- 5 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2467604 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to this amazing country retreat! Experience luxury, elegance, and unmatched living in this stunning custom-built masterpiece, boasting 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths wi...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2512189 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Beautiful custom built home to include just over 8 acres in Angier just one mile from city limits. Welcomed by a 3 car garage, covered front porch and several updates thr...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2504145 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to your future private oasis on over 43 acres featuring a sprawling ranch that was custom designed by Frazier Home Design! There's a detached heated/cooled worksh...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2507102 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Peace and tranquility with acres to roam! This rural retreat offers a private pond with covered dock, barn, and pasture with shelter. When it's time to retire after a day...
- 5 Beds
- 3 Baths
- LP698973 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
This is an opportunity to own an exquisite piece of Carolina country! Nestled in the heart of Johnston County, 30 minutes to downtown Raleigh, 45 minutes to RDU, 15 minut...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2498058 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
SHOWINGS BEGIN FRIDAY, 4/14 Situated just 8.5 short miles from downtown Pittsboro - on 15-501, sits the opportunity of a lifetime! Looking for a gathering compound where...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2504089 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Live the dream on this large 78.2 acre farm. Enjoy open pastures, multiple ponds, and an outstanding view throughout. Charming farmhouse renovated in 1994 with over 3400...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2511527 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
One of a kind, custom built home on 10, River-front acres, in a beautiful, gated community. The owner/builder is a floral design professional and invested in creating low...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2513311 MLS
- COMING SOON Status
Buyer's house did not sell so this unique property is back on the market! Come home to historic charm plus more contemporary living spaces, the best of both! The restore...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2475960 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Beautiful Spanish style estate on a 46 acre equestrian facility. 12 stall barn w/2 tack rooms, feed rm, wash rm, 100x200 arena, 17+ acres of pastures, riding trails. Home...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2503112 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Incredible opportunity to build this stunning modern Farmhouse with Dunning Homes, one of the finest Custom Builders around! This 4 Bed spacious home can be placed on the...
- 4 Beds
- 56 Baths
- 2511455 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
16 Acres! Excellent location in Chatham! Drees Homes TO BE BUILT Ballentine Plan has every detail & you can still make ALL your selections prior to construction. 10’Ceili...
- 4 Beds
- 5 Baths
- 2509812 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
CAN BE DIVIDED! (1) 4 acres w/ 15 MHP lots w/private septic tanks and one well; (2) 10 acres w/ 1937 two-bedroom house, one bath, barns, out buildings & field to fence in...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2474863 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
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
It's all in the details & this CUSTOM newly remodeled home has them on 31.86 acres w/ pond! Gorgeous eat-in kitchen w/ two islands, double ovens, gas 5-burner cooktop, qu...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2498810 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
Authentic farm house and 64 Acres!! Big front porch perfect for rocking chairs. This home is full of character and the renovations done provide efficiency. Beautiful wo...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2509120 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Lover of history? Old houses are your jam! Welcome to Elgin Plantation circa 1837. Listed in National Register of Historic Places* Incredible Estate w/ private, gated en...
- 4 Beds
- 5 Baths
- 2494994 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Exquisite Georgian Colonial Estate located in Wake County nestled on nearly 17.5 acres for a secluded and private lifestyle. Majestic stone exterior stands out among the ...
- 6 Beds
- 6 Baths
- 2481957 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
RARE opportunity to own this stunning home on 13.88 acres w/4332 sq.ft. 2-car garage, & a serene pond in desirable Cary 27519. Sellers obtained permits to bring this 198...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 2513035 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
The pinnacle of luxury living awaits beyond the gates of this incredibly private 14-acre estate in a premium north Raleigh location. Built for hosting, this special prope...
- 6 Beds
- 11 Baths
- 2511921 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 .