Leasing a Horse...Need some answers. =)

Recently, I've recieved an offer to free lease a gorgeous Arabian gelding, for three years, no strings attached, with the opportunity to buy him at any time. I would be boarding him at the same stable he is currently at.

However, I was wondering;

Is it standard to allow access to the horse's regular tack with the lease?

Also,
I'm supposed to be going to see him this weekend for the first time, to decide whether I really like him or not. If, after everything else, I like him, should I ask to ride him?

Answers greatly appreciated!

I feel like you should ask to ride him, because you are leasing him as a riding horse right? You don't wanna commit to the lease then find out you aren't compatible under saddle. I am going through the same leasing issues so good luck!

Definitely ride him. You don't want to commit to a lease only to find you're riding a fire breathing dragon. Also, get very clear on what they mean by free lease. Free meaning you pay no fee to the owner but still cover all his costs (feed, board, vet, farrier, etc) or free meaning you simply ride the horse whenever you want and the owner pays for his expenses?

Also, it can go both ways regarding tack. It's really the owner's choice whether they want you using their tack, and it's definitely something you can ask about.

The conditions of the lease are this; It's a free lease, meaning I pay no fee to lease the horse, but I will pay $100 a month to board him there, or take him somewhere else. Board includes feed, turnout, etc. Also, I can opt out of the lease at any time, as well as purchase him at any time. The only reason she is doing this is because she feels she just doesn't have time to give him the attention he needs, and is more concerned about him than making money.

I would DEFINITELY ride the horse. I'd also ask about tack at best they'll say yes, at worst, they'll say no. Regardless of the answer, you'll know what you'll need to do about the tack situation.

That's great about only covering the very reasonable sounding board. Are you responsible for the rest of his bills as well? I.e. Farrier every 6-8 weeks, worming, vet?

Yes. I would be responsible to also pay any vet bills as well as for farrier visits and worming. But I think that that is very do-able considering she is only going to charge $100 a month for board. Most places it's between $250 and $350 a month.

I have leased the past 3 - 4 years and highly suggest it. I would most defiantly ride the horse at least once, preferably several times. Go several times at several times of the day and then decide if you like the horse. Also, make sure you get EVERYTHING in writing!!! Good luck and keep us updated!

I agree, get everything in writing. You don't want to be taken advantage of. Make sure you're on the exact same page as the owner in terms of what the lease means.

This sounds like a wonderful oppourtunity. With a chance to opt out or buy, that sounds great! I would ride him more than just once, so you can really get a feel of what he's like.

Good luck and I hope he works out for you. Do you have pics?

Not at the moment, but I will take some tomorrow when I go and post them asap. =)