[Amlalriiee]

I'm considering a lease this summer, but need some advice and experienced knowledge about it because I haven't done it before. I know some people who have given some advice...but I'd like to also hear it from you guys--you don't know me or(probably) any of the people I'd lease from so you have a nice objective view point =)

Some of my questions:

1. What is a reasonable price for an on-farm lease/half lease?

2. What is basic lease etiquette? I don't want to accidentally breach some unwritten rule

3. When someone asks what "level" rider you are, is there some specific criteria for beginner, intermediate, and experienced that I'm unaware of or is it pretty subjective?? I never know what to say...so I always end up writing them a novel about what I have and haven't done.

4. Anything else I should look out for/be aware of? I know I should read the agreement carefully, and be very clear about what is expected from me and what I'm responsible to pay for...anything else?

I'm still unsure about leasing because I DO have horses I can ride for free, but I think it will be good for me to have that experience with a horse that will challenge me and one that I can go ride at times when the others aren't available or what-not. Variety is good. Anyway....just hoping there are some wise thoughts out there!!

 

[Amlalriiee]

Thank you guys, this actually clears it up a lot! JustDressage, love your explanation of "Basic Guidelines"...that's actually the clearest explanation I've heard. And I'm glad you mentioned insurance because that's something I may not have thought of. Sorry about the bad experience, BlueJay, at least you learned from it though! And, I'm glad the novel isn't a bad thing because it's what I keep doing! haha

 

[Amlalriiee]

Well, that does sound like a good leasing experience

I think it'd be fun to show at some point in my life, once I've taken the lessons and got myself to where I could do it. At this point in my life, I'm 21, just getting ready to graduate college, and I mostly just do trail riding. I am more interested in improving myself and becoming a more well-rounded rider, putting another experience under my belt and guaranteeing myself more riding time. Kind of like what you said about focusing on the journey rather than a destination. I don't care where I'm going as long as I'm in the saddle. I could care less about ribbons and such, so I think I could find a relatively reasonable lease....I'm still on the fence as to whether it's worth it or not. I have some great horses that I can ride but I guess I was looking to challenge myself with a new horse that has different goals than the ones I usually ride, if that makes sense.

 

[Amlalriiee]

Oh boy I worded that very cryptically, I hope it makes sense. hahah

Thank you again for the advice, though, now I just need to make my own mind up!!