When first looking for a barn home to give lessons, it can be overwhelming. When you have a dream to build your own lesson program, the last thing you want to happen is to not be able to flourish like you would like.

Listed below is a checklist of things to look for when looking for a home for your program:

1. Do they allow lessons?, If so, do they take a percentage of what you make?
2. What type of insurance do they require?
3. Do they have horses on sight that you can already lease? *Note: some facilities have boarders that will be willing to lease horses*
4. Does the facility boarding contract hold you back in anyway?
5. Are their certain hours that you will be allowed to work?
6. Is there enough space to give lessons? More than one arena?
7. Can you afford to board at this facility if bringing your own lessons horses?
8. Will the facility allow you to offer more than one program if you chose to do so?
9. Will you be able to work year round?
10. Will you be able to be, you, there?

You have to think long term. You want to be able to create the program you have always desired. Now I get it, you may not be able to find all of these things at one place, but finding the majority is a start.

To start searching for facilities, ask around in facebook groups, google local equestrian facilities in your area, make a list, and start calling or making visits.

It’s best to already have a name, plan, and insurance established when approaching these facilities so they know exactly where you are headed. That was they know that you are legit and trustworthy.

Try and meet with as many facilities as you can that seem to be a fit, so you can find the right one.

When first setting up the visit, tell them up front what you are looking to do, this will save you a lot of time and travel if a facility says yes or no, right up front.