As we come into the autumn, our competition season is drawing to a close. Our last event of the season is a trip to the south of France this week, where my wife, Sarah, will be competing a little horse called Dassett Cooley Dun at the Pau CCI 4*.

At 15.1 hands, Dassett Cooley Dun is one of, if not, the smallest horses in the world currently competing at 4*, the highest level in eventing. Most of our competition horses will now have a holiday for 6 to 8 weeks, however the yard remain busy through the winter, with the hunters coming. We also use the quieter time in the winter to break in the 3 year olds, ready for next season.  

On reflection, we have had a very positive 2018 season, with an exciting line up of 4 year olds joining our string,  and all of which have impressed us during their debut season. A number of the older horses have progressed up though the grades, and are showing the potential to replace a couple of the older campaigners, who might now be looking for a slightly quieter life by stepping down to 3* level next year.  

On a work related note, 2018 has been an interesting year for the Equestrian department at Butler Sherborn. With a busy start to 2018, we have experienced a market that has grown increasingly difficult throughout the year. We expect this to continue up until Brexit, after which we believe increased certainty will generate greater activity.

In the meantime, there are still those buyers who need to move, and the shortage of available property will continue to bolster demand. Within the farm and equestrian property market, we have seen a localisation of the market with properties in certain areas generating competition and selling above their Guide Price. Whilst other properties in less desirable areas, or those with compromises, are sitting on the market and require a reduction in price before selling.

As ever with farm and equestrian properties, many of the transactions, both sales and lettings, are taking place off market. Interestingly, with almost everyone looking for a property registered on the property portals, we have seen an increase in the number of buyers registering their searches with us, so they can be notified of properties being offered privately or receiving the details ahead of them being launched onto the portals.

Both the competition world of eventing, and my work for Butler Sherborn look set to be  challenging and competitive in 2019.

For all property matters Equestrian Contact:  Ben Way  ben@butlersherborn.co.uk  01451 830 731

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Cirencester Estate Agent

Patience, Gorgs and Alex Geikie, April 2021

We are a returning client of Butler Sherborn and we would highly recommend them if you’re looking to sell your property. The two properties we sold with BS were very different, but the BS team have always been extremely professional, approachable and friendly. And their communication skills are second to none! Thank you again!
— Patience, Gorgs and Alex Geikie