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Tips for Buying an Equestrian Property from Our Advisor
If you love horses and want to purchase an equestrian property, there are many aspects to consider. First-time buyers are often eager yet unaware of some of the challenges that may come with a particular property. That’s why we’re providing insights from our local Equestrian Advisor and Realtor, Liz Bailey. We’re proud to have Liz’s expertise in our Windermere Poulsbo office where she works with home buyers and sellers across Kitsap County. Liz is uniquely qualified to assist clients with equestrian properties since she’s done so for years and has extensive experience riding, owning, breeding, and boarding horses.
Here are some of her helpful tips and insights.
Questions to Ask Yourself
1. How much land do you need?
When considering an equestrian property, check local livestock regulations. Most municipalities have limits on the number of livestock per acre. Make sure your plans include enough land to support the number of animals you hope to have. Look for land that’s flat or a bit sloped with room for turnout and proper forage for grazing. Avoid properties that have a lot of unusable land such as those that are heavily forested, have deep gullies, steep slopes, or wetlands.
2. Have you considered your homeowner’s insurance?
Many insurance companies limit coverage for horses, even for personal use. If you plan to board horses, you may need commercial coverage, so plan ahead.
3. Are you hoping to build or add on to the facilities already on the land?
Don’t forget to check well and septic locations. You will need permits to build, and setbacks from water sources, dwellings, and drain fields are mandatory.
4. Did you inspect the barn and stables?
During the inspection, don’t forget to have the barn and stables examined too. It may cost more but it’s worth it. From potential electrical issues to structural hazards, a professional can warn you about any possible problems up front.
5. Have you made parking a priority?
“My personal pet peeve is no access for a truck and trailer or limited access for your farrier or veterinarian,” Liz says. Be sure to ask whether the property you are considering will allow plenty of easy access for vehicle traffic.
Look for these Equestrian Amenities
When touring a property, Liz suggests examining it closely and seeing if it has the convenient features listed below. These amenities will make it much easier to house horses and livestock on your property.
- A source of water in each stall
- Plentiful frost-proof spigots in the barn, arenas, and pastures or turnouts
- Sufficient covered storage for hay, grain and bedding
- Wash bay/tack stall
- Tack room with saddle racks, bridle racks, blanket hooks, and room for tack trunks, medications, and more
- Storage for tractors, wheelbarrows, brooms, etc.
- Arena or round pen for riding
- Adequate lighting
- Horse-safe fencing
And, Liz adds, “Whatever you do, don’t forget the poo! Manure storage and disposal is a big concern for many. Local agricultural departments may be able to help with planning for proper composting and disposal of manure.”
Your Daily Routine Matters
Consider your daily routine when examining equestrian properties. As Liz says, “Addressing your horse’s safety and comfort is a priority, but it doesn’t mean neglecting your own.” Is the location of the home convenient or is it too close to the barn for comfort? Can you get to the barn quickly in case of an emergency? Will it be convenient during daily chores and during winter weather? Where is the main water source and the electrical panel? A thoughtful setup and careful planning will make adapting to your new property while pursuing your passion a true pleasure!
For more information, check out Liz Bailey’s website or contact her.
New Agent Spotlight: Will Storch
We’re excited to feature Will Storch, a newer agent who recently joined Windermere Poulsbo. As a lifelong local, Will is passionate about community and serving clients’ individual needs. He works with buyers and sellers on Bainbridge Island and across Kitsap County. Will brings a range of skills and experiences to the table, allowing him to connect with a variety of people, sharing real estate expertise and insider tips. Read on to find out more.
What drew you to real estate?
What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a realtor?
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
Which areas do you serve and what do you love about them?
I am based in Kitsap County with a primary focus on Bainbridge Island, where I currently live and was raised. I have also lived in Seattle for a number of years and consider myself knowledgeable about the different areas of Seattle and understand the market conditions in King County. All the areas surrounding Seattle and Kitsap County offer amazing opportunities from outdoor activities to cultural opportunities, and great restaurants and schools. I personally love living on Bainbridge Island with access to great beaches, parks, trails, and restaurants.
Note: Check out Will’s new website where he shares a wealth of information about our local communities.
How long have you lived here?
How are you involved in the community?
Volunteering during our annual Community Service Day.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
First-Time Home Buyer? Here’s Our Checklist to Get Started
Congratulations, you have decided to buy your first home! While it’s easy to view homes for sale online, there are some important steps to set you up for success as a first-time home buyer. Here’s our checklist to help you get started.
1. Know What You Want in a Home
Before you start showing up at open houses, it’s important to sit down to hone in on your wants and needs. Without doing so, it’s like going to the grocery store without a list. And in this strong seller’s market, no one wants to waste time wandering around while great homes are being snatched up. While you may not know exactly what you want, even having some of the key elements nailed down can really help you in your search.
- Where do you want to live?
Do you want to live within walking distance of restaurants and shops, out in the country on acreage, beachside, or near a ferry to Seattle? From forested retreats to waterfront estates, convenient condos to sprawling equestrian properties, there are many options across Kitsap County. But what suits you and your needs? - How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want?
If you have children or are thinking of having them, consider how this will impact your home environment and use of space now and in the future. Also, decide if you want or need a spare room for guests, a home office, or a playroom. - Is a backyard a need-to-have or a nice-to-have?
Many people want space for their kids and/or dogs to play, room for a garden, and to entertain guests. Others simply want a little space between themselves and their neighbors. How do you imagine spending time in your dream home? And, how much home maintenance would you prefer? - What type of community do you want to live in?
If you see a property that looks appealing, be sure to check out the neighborhood. Research the schools near that home and see what amenities are nearby. Don’t be afraid to walk around in the neighborhood and say hello to people. Ask them how long they’ve lived there and what they like or don’t like about it to really get a feel for the area. Home can mean different things to different people. Some are happy to live in a “bedroom community” where they reside while their primary focus is on where they work and their easy commute. Others want to know their neighbors and feel part of a tight-knit network. Even simply knowing that the schools are solid and seeing smiling faces nearby can help inform you as a buyer.
2. Know Your Budget
Buying a house is a big commitment, and it’s essential to know how much you can afford to spend before you start seriously searching. All mortgage lenders will check your credit history, income, and assets. Lending companies want to make sure you’re capable of paying off the loan plus interest. So it’s best to get your finances in order beforehand. As a matter of fact, it’s best to get pre-approved for a loan. First, this will show you’re a serious buyer to sellers. Secondly, it’s important to remember the added costs of buying a house such as settlement and closing costs. Some first-time home buyers may not know that they are often responsible for paying for appraisals and closing costs. You can learn more about this in our Home Buying Guide.
3. Find a Reliable, Local Agent
Finding a great, local agent can help you in a variety of ways. You want someone who is knowledgeable, a good listener, and will serve as your advocate. A top-notch local agent will know the local real estate market and have strong ties to excellent local vendors who will also assist you. This is especially important if you are new to the area. Local agents have been networking in the area for years. Additionally, local agents have insider knowledge to help you find the house of your dreams at the best price possible.
4. Be Emotionally Prepared
Finally, buying a house can be emotionally exhausting. Places can show up on the market and get sold in record time. Negotiations can fall through for various reasons. In our current seller’s market, we’re seeing many multiple offer situations. That’s why it’s so important to start off on the right foot and have an excellent agent helping you through the home buying process, especially as a first-time home buyer.
For more information about our area, check out our Newcomer’s Guide to Kitsap County. In it, you’ll find videos, articles, and helpful links to learn about our communities, schools, daycares, recreation options, housing prices by city, and much more.
New Agent Spotlight: Rebecca Olodort
We’re excited to feature new agent Rebecca Olodort. She knows how important it is to be a good listener, a strong advocate, and a trusted guide. Rebecca offers a wealth of information and experience and her love of home design and helping people shines through. Read on to find out more.
What unique professional experiences or skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
I am a detail-oriented, practical, strategic problem-solver who ran a 50M fashion business for many years. Critical to being able to do this was: listening to all involved parties.
What drew you to real estate?
A passion for helping people combined with a love of home design.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
It is critical that a Realtor be trustworthy, determined and a good listener. The ability to see all sides of a situation gives me the unique opportunity to create a smooth and seamless real estate transaction.
Which areas do you serve and what do you love about those areas?
I serve King, Kitsap, Jefferson, and Clallam Counties. We have the best of all worlds in hiking, boating, and access to downtown Seattle via ferry. I love hiking the many local trails. There are really too many to mention but I highly recommend Fort Lawton Trail, Lake Crescent, and North Kitsap Heritage Park. Our favorite restaurants in North Kitsap are Kingston Ale House, Streamliner Diner, and Burrata Bistro. Another fun day for us is taking the ferry to Seattle, visiting one of the many museums (especially the Seattle Art Museum), and having a bite to eat and a lovely glass of wine at Purple Café.
How long have you lived here?
I was born in Kansas, raised in southern California, and I’ve been living in the Pacific Northwest for over 10 years. We were looking for an area with a small town feel and access to a major city with an international airport. We moved to Kingston in 2016 to design and build our forever home. Simply said, we have the best of all worlds.
How are you involved in the community?
I’m a White Horse Golf Community Board Member and their Design Review Chair. Also, I’m a volunteer for Meals on Wheels of Kitsap.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
After working for major corporations such as Estée Lauder, Swarovski, and Fossil Group, it was an organic decision to work with the most professional and successful real estate brokerage in the Pacific Northwest.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I enjoy shopping at Central Market and the local Farmers Market to select ingredients for preparing healthy meals for my husband and 96-year-old mother. In 2019, we adopted our Maltipoo, Sadie, from the Kitsap Humane Society and she is a 10-pound bundle of joy!
We are so glad to have Rebecca Olodort as a new member of our Windermere team. She’s a sincere pleasure to work with and you can connect with her on Facebook and Instagram, or visit her website.
New Agent Spotlight: Angela Winks
We are proud to feature Angela Winks in our new Q&A spotlight series. With a diverse set of skills and experiences, Angela offers buyers and sellers a focused, personalized approach with an emphasis on clear communication, positivity, and a sincere appreciation for the areas and clients she serves. Read on to find out about Angela’s background, what she loves about real estate, and more.
What drew you to real estate?
What drew me to real estate was my passion for all things “home” and my deep desire to help others. I also have always had the desire to have and manage my own business. As a business owner, personal growth and a positive mindset are a vital part of every day and I absolutely love being in an industry that constantly requires me to learn and be more so that I can give more to my family, friends, clients, and community.
What unique professional experiences or skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
My years of experience in the health and fitness field helped me sharpen my skills as a strong communicator and leader. As an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and Director of a post-physical therapy exercise program, I had the opportunity to help clients and patients set and achieve their goals, not only safely and effectively, but in a welcoming and fun environment.
As a Realtor, I enjoy the same opportunities. Whether my clients need to sell or buy real estate, it’s important to have clear communication and a great plan. And, of course, it is always my pleasure to make the whole process as enjoyable as possible for my clients!
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
Realtors should possess exceptional interpersonal communication and relationship skills as well as the ability to stay open-minded, focused, organized, and creative.
Which areas do you serve and what do you love about those areas?
I happily serve Kitsap, Pierce, Mason, Jefferson, and King counties. I believe we are incredibly fortunate to live in this part of the country and Washington state. The natural beauty is astounding and the support for the communities and their wonderfully unique local businesses is second to none.
How long have you lived here?
I have lived in Kitsap County for 7 1/2 years. I came here after college because I had family scattered around the area and fell in love with the natural beauty.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
I decided to work with Windermere because of their special focus on building and nurturing relationships as well as their strong presence in the community. This is a company that truly cares about people and that is extremely important to me! They also provide the latest technology and education for their agents so we can always keep adding tools to our real estate toolbelts and serving our clients at our highest level.
We are delighted that Angela Winks has joined us. We know she will be a sincere pleasure for buyers and sellers to work with here on the Kitsap Peninsula and in Pierce, Mason, Jefferson, and King County. You can connect with Angela through her website.
