Before we talk about your dream horse farm, I want to give you a bit of insight into my own personal journey and experiences with horses and horse farms.
In my younger days I managed horse farms in Northern California, Southern California and deep east Texas. My vagabond days ended when I took a job as trainer for a superb Egyptian Arabian breeding farm in Afton, Virginia about 25 minutes west of Charlottesville, Virginia. I remember arriving for my first day in 1982. It was my birthday, May 21 and the soft green fields smelled earthy and rich. There were dogwood trees blooming at the edge of the woods. The morning air was cool and moist. The horses in their pastures all had their heads down grazing on the new grass. What a contrast from the dry, pipe fenced paddocks of Santa Barbara and the shallow, rocky soils of the Texas piney woods. Here was country made for horses with deep rich soils, ideal forage and a history and culture where fine horses have always played a central role.
It wasn’t long before I knew I had found my home. I opened my own training stable at Waverley Farm in Orange County and got my real estate license in 1983. In 1985 I decided to dedicate all of my energies toward real estate and my horses happily moved to hobby status where they remain even today. I have specialized in all types of country property for nearly forty years but particularly enjoy working with horse owners helping them find that ideal horse property in the seven county area surrounding Charlottesville, Virginia.
What does your dream horse farm look like? Whether you are looking for a professional, turn-key operation with an indoor arena, such as Ridge View Ranch or just a little place in the country where you can enjoy a couple of pleasure horses, you’ll appreciate working with a Realtor who knows what makes a horse property viable. We can also put you in touch with some great equine vets, farriers, trainers and coaches or introduce you fox hunters to the Keswick Hunt and Farmington Hunt.
If you would like to see some current offerings of Horse farms for Sale in Charlottesville Virginia
Before we talk about your dream horse farm, I want to give you a bit of insight into my own personal journey and experiences with horses and horse farms. In my younger days I managed horse farms in Northern California, Southern California and deep east Texas. My...
An extraordinary offering in the heart of the Keswick Hunt Just prior to the year 2000, three 100 acre parcels were created from the stunning 18th century plantation known as Windholme in southern Orange County, Virginia. A carefully conceived conservation easement...
For anyone who has been waiting patiently for the perfect property to come on the market, it’s been worth the wait! Stilwin with 183 acres, nestled in a private valley less than 20 minutes from Charlottesville is available for...
Gaby and I are thrilled to present Maple Crest as a delightful short term rental less than 15 minutes from five wineries, great antiquing in Orange and Gordonsville and just 30 minutes from Charlottesville and UVA. We would love to host you for a weekend or a week....
These 85 acres are situated between two farms and comprised of an ideal balance of open pasture, gently rolling woodland and a breathtaking mountainside. A trail network provides great access through the lower woods, (elevation 600 ft) and to the top of the property...
Consumers are being stretched thin by inflation, from the gas pump to the grocery store, and are beginning to slow their spending compared to last year.
Mortgage rates are rising at the quickest pace in 40 years, with a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage reaching the highest level since 2009 last week at 5.53%, as inflation keeps growing and there is speculation about an imminent economic slump.
The perfect storm of increased demand due to Covid, a robust stock market, and low real estate inventory fueled a two-year buyer frenzy that saw prices rise 20% in a hot seller’s market; this affected Charlottesville real estate market and Charlottesville realtors as well.
Farm and estate specialists like Charlottesville Country Properties noted renewed appreciation for properties with acreage mirroring the national trend of migration from urban to rural lifestyles, especially from affluent professionals who can now work from home.
Recent mortgage interest rate increases and an unpredictable stock market have slightly tempered the Charlottesville real estate market, which may be a welcome trend for buyers waiting for the market to cool off a little.
We do not expect Charlottesville, VA, real estate prices to appreciate as quickly as they have over the last few years. Still, demand for farms, estates, and land should stay steady due to the work-from-home trend and the proliferation of broadband internet access even in once remote areas.
Charlottesville VA real estate market trends
REDFIN – September 2022
The median sale price of a home in Charlottesville, VA, was $403K last month, up 2.6% from the previous year.
Charlottesville’s average sale price per square foot is $291, up 13.2% from last year.
In general, Charlottesville home prices were up 2.6% year over year in July 2022, with a median price of $403K.
Homes in Charlottesville sell in 9 days on average, compared to 69 days last year.
In July of this year, 64 homes were sold, down from 70 in July the prior year.
The number of listings in the Charlottesville, VA, real estate market increased by 51% between July 2022 and August 2022.
The median list price in August 2022 was $439,999, while the average listing age was 48 days.
In July 2022, 277 homes were sold in Charlottesville, VA, up from 120 the previous year.
Before we talk about your dream horse farm, I want to give you a bit of insight into my own personal journey and experiences with horses and horse farms. In my younger days I managed horse farms in Northern California, Southern California and deep east Texas. My...
An extraordinary offering in the heart of the Keswick Hunt Just prior to the year 2000, three 100 acre parcels were created from the stunning 18th century plantation known as Windholme in southern Orange County, Virginia. A carefully conceived conservation easement...
For anyone who has been waiting patiently for the perfect property to come on the market, it’s been worth the wait! Stilwin with 183 acres, nestled in a private valley less than 20 minutes from Charlottesville is available for...
Gaby and I are thrilled to present Maple Crest as a delightful short term rental less than 15 minutes from five wineries, great antiquing in Orange and Gordonsville and just 30 minutes from Charlottesville and UVA. We would love to host you for a weekend or a week....
These 85 acres are situated between two farms and comprised of an ideal balance of open pasture, gently rolling woodland and a breathtaking mountainside. A trail network provides great access through the lower woods, (elevation 600 ft) and to the top of the property...
An extraordinary offering in the heart of the Keswick Hunt
Just prior to the year 2000, three 100 acre parcels were created from the stunning 18th century plantation known as Windholme in southern Orange County, Virginia. A carefully conceived conservation easement was created to protect each parcel and the remainder from further development.
Plans were drawn by noted architect J. Kestner (and are available) for a most unique home sited to enjoy the long reaching views of this unspoiled Piedmont valley. Repurposing materials from an 19th century mill found in the Blue Ridge mountains, a dramatic four bedroom post and beam home was created exuding rustic character at every turn while benefitting from modern technology and efficiencies.
For the horse enthusiast the situation could not be more opportune. The previous owner who was active with the Keswick hunt used the property as a hunt box and created an excellent five stall stable with a two bedroom apartment attached. There are several paddocks for turn out and marvelous riding opportunities on and around Dutchmont.
Dutchmont is comprised of 100 acres of prime Virginia farm land. It has approximately 75 acres in gently rolling pasture and hayland with the balance in mature hardwood forest reaching to the top of a small mountain. The property is well watered with several springs, a stream and a large pond of several acres stocked with gamefish. Except for the horse paddocks, the farm is currently maintained by a neighboring farmer who makes hay and grazes cattle on the land.
Dutchmont is located less than 10 minutes from the charming, historic town of Gordonsville and about 30 minutes from Charlottesville and the University of Virginia. Washington, DC is about two hours north.
For anyone who has been waiting patiently for the perfect property to come on the market, it’s been worth the wait!
Stilwin with 183 acres, nestled in a private valley less than 20 minutes from Charlottesville is available for your consideration. The land and improvements are in pristine condition and the setting boasts amazing views of the Southwest and Blue Ridge mountains. Surrounded by properties under conservation easement for perfect peace of mind.
Gaby and I are thrilled to present Maple Crest as a delightful short term rental less than 15 minutes from five wineries, great antiquing in Orange and Gordonsville and just 30 minutes from Charlottesville and UVA. We would love to host you for a weekend or a week. Have a look and let us know how we can help you have a memorable experience here in the heart of beautiful Orange County.
These 85 acres are situated between two farms and comprised of an ideal balance of open pasture, gently rolling woodland and a breathtaking mountainside. A trail network provides great access through the lower woods, (elevation 600 ft) and to the top of the property at nearly 1000 ft. A good well and electric are already on site as is fiber optic for high speed internet.
If privacy, views and and a great value are among your priorities, this is a must see property.
Waiting for spring to pop. Warming temps have sent the crocuses up and the daffodils are poking up and looking around as well, not quite sure if they can trust these early 70’ days. The horses get their blankets off during the day and revel in a good roll. The Blue Ridge rise almost purple some days. Daylight savings cost us some sleep but gives us a little more time after work to enjoy the outdoors.
Another dreary day in January; overcast, 34 degrees and muddy underfoot. I was contemplating this morning as I was squishing back to the house in the near dawn after feeding the horses and chickens..they’re sleeping. All the barren trees, the pruned back shrubs, the wilted fronds of the summer’s hostas, lillies, irises, mums and bee balms. This is their night as they rest in their roots and branches, snuggling in under a blanket of leaf mulch and soft soil, enjoying a well deserved rest after an energetic summer during which we enjoyed their fruits, flowers and fragrances. Sleep well friends, we’ll see you in the morning!
BTW, there is no better time to look at country property than in the winter. No bugs, no brambles and you can see through the woods. Call me for an update on new listings!
Wildon Grove Road winds through a hidden valley in the Southwest Mountains and ends at a pretty little church. Along its way is this unique parcel of land comprised of multiple open meadows, a striking cedar forest on the low grounds, and mature hardwood forest as the property climbs from 600 to nearly 1000 feet in elevation.
Numerous building sites exist offering complete privacy and wonderful views. A drilled well and electric service is already in place. Wonderful value at only $590,000.
The current residence, built in 2002, rests on a high knoll overlooking the James River and a breathtaking panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The entire farm has been re-created since 2001 with white board fencing, exceptional outbuildings and a thoughtful layout for an efficient cattle operation.
Lowfields was established sometime prior to 1822 when the original two over two brick home was built on acreage surrounding Bremo Plantation, an original land grant owned by John Hartwell Cooke a colleague of Thomas Jefferson. The lands of Bremo Plantation whose 5000 acres are now under conservation easement still surrounds Lowfields providing protection from future development. The c.1822 residence with original joinery, slate roof and hand cut nails has been stabilized by the current owners and is ready for further restoration if desired. It currently serves as a showcase for the owner’s dramatic gardens and and art collection.
The bunk house in the barn complex is a work of art inviting night long gatherings around a roaring fire.
The farm is about two thirds open pasture and hay land with excellent fencing. There is water and shade in every field. The farm was designed as a purebred Angus operation and has been maintained in meticulous condition for the last two decades. In addition to the infrastructure for cattle there is a grand, airy barn ideally suited for horses. The property has miles of trails and is within the Deep Run Hunt.
The C’Ville Expert is authored by John Ince, of Charlottesville Country Properties,
John Ince – Listing Agent in Charlottesville VA
specializing in the sale and marketing of farms, estates, and country residences within 50 miles of Charlottesville, Virginia. Apart from his 35-year career in Charlottesville real estate, John enjoys being an ambassador for one of the best places to live in America. For anyone who places a priority on “quality of life”, Charlottesville and its surroundings must be on your shortlist of where to spend the rest of your life. The town of Charlottesville is remarkable, a true melting pot with cultural venues not found in cities ten times the size. The countryside is breathtaking and just scant minutes from downtown with lush farmland and historic estates many tracing back to original land grants. The Blue Ridge Mountains rise to the west moderating our weather and providing endless recreational activities with hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and fly fishing for native trout all within 20 minutes of downtown. We hope you’ll enjoy some personal insights into the lifestyle one can enjoy here from these posts and that you will refer to Charlottesvillecountry.com for more information on real estate in this wonderful area.
