Selling rural real estate can be rewarding but also more challenging compared to suburban or urban markets. Buyers interested in country living, farmland, or horse properties often look for unique features. If you want to sell your rural property quickly and for the best price, you’ll need a clear marketing strategy, proper pricing, and thoughtful preparation. Here are the top tips on how to sell property in rural areas successfully.
1. Create the Right Rural Property Marketing Strategy
Marketing rural properties requires a different approach than city homes. Buyers may be far away and rely heavily on online research. To attract them:
- Use specialized listing platforms – Choose real estate websites that cater to country homes, farms, and horse properties; like HorseProperties.Net.
- Invest in high-quality visuals – Professional photography, drone footage, and videos showcasing the land, barns, arenas, pastures, trails, and surrounding scenery help buyers envision the lifestyle.
- Leverage print and digital flyers – Include compelling descriptions and images that highlight unique features.
- Showcase accessibility – Mention proximity to highways, schools, vets, feed stores, or equestrian facilities.
2. Price Your Rural Property Correctly
One of the biggest challenges in selling rural real estate is determining a fair asking price. Comparable sales (comps) may be scarce, but accurate pricing is essential.
- Hire a local expert – An agent specializing in rural land or equestrian properties can provide valuable insights.
- Factor in unique features – Secondary residences, multiple barns for boarding horses, outbuilding for extra storage, or income-generating land (hay fields, orchards, etc.) can raise value.
- Compare amenities – Does your neighbor’s farm have a better arena, newer fencing, or easier trailer access? Take these into account.
Overpricing can leave your property sitting unsold for months, while strategic pricing backed by market data attracts more serious buyers.
3. Consider Dividing the Property
If you own a large acreage, consider subdividing before selling.
- Smaller parcels sell faster – Many buyers only want 5–10 acres, not 50.
- Maintenance appeal – Less land means less upkeep, which broadens your buyer pool.
- Flexible options – Offer parcels separately or create a package deal for those who want the entire property.
A professional surveyor can help identify the best way to divide land for maximum return.
4. Get a Property Survey
A current property survey provides clarity for both buyers and sellers.
- Defines boundaries and easements – Avoids disputes later.
- Builds trust with buyers – Demonstrates professionalism and transparency.
- Speeds up closing – Saves time during the contract process.
If you’re subdividing, a survey is often required, making it a smart investment upfront.
5. Clean, Declutter, and Repair Before Selling
First impressions matter. A well-kept property not only looks better but also signals that it’s been cared for.
Clean
- Deep-clean every room, including barns, tack rooms, and hay lofts.
- Pressure-wash barns, sweep aisles, and remove cobwebs.
- Mow pastures, trim fencelines, pull weeds, and improve curb appeal.
Declutter
- Remove personal items, broken equipment, and excessive storage.
- Rent a storage unit if necessary.
- Donate usable items you no longer need.
Repair
- Fix fencing, barns, and outbuildings. Unsafe or neglected structures scare buyers away.
- Repaint barns, replace damaged boards, and ensure gates work smoothly.
- Address minor home repairs—buyers will notice every detail.
Pro Tip: Horse buyers especially look for secure fencing, functional barns, and safe facilities. Investing in these repairs increases buyer confidence and property value.
Final Thoughts: Selling Rural Property Successfully
Selling rural property, farmland, or horse acreage requires patience, preparation, and the right strategy. From marketing with professional photos to pricing realistically and ensuring the property is clean and safe, these steps can help you sell rural real estate faster and at a higher price.
By highlighting lifestyle benefits, unique land features, and equestrian amenities, you’ll appeal to the growing number of buyers seeking a simpler, country way of life.
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