Liz CA Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 After one year, eleven months and 12days of unemployement - or underemployment, dh has gotten a job two hours away, one way. Since it is not feasible to drive 4 hrs in one day, we need to rent out our home and rent something small closer to his work. We have lived here for 11 yrs and have an elderly horse. He is retired here and deserves to live out his life. Would you rent from us if we gave you the run of the place (7 acres), the option to have chicken, horses, any size dog, let your children do 4-H animal projects (we have plenty of room, ds did a market hog years ago) build tree houses, whatever an active family would want to do, for the going rental rate in the area...BUT beg you to feed the horse twice a day. I am thinking I would have to either decrease the rent by an agreed upon amount so the cost of hay is set off, or ask a neighbor if he would drop off hay and pay him for his trouble. We just found this out yesterday, my head is still spinning. We are sooo relieved and happy but there are so many things to take care of. Go slow and easy, please. :D Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Michelle My Bell Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Where do you live? I am moving in. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Liz CA Posted January 15, 2011 Author Share Posted January 15, 2011 Where do you live? I am moving in. :D Please do! Western Slope of the Sierra Nevada Foothills in CA. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
elizabeth rose Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Are you kidding? My kids would be thrilled! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
regentrude Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Since you asked: I would definitely not rent your place. It would mean that I would have to be HOME every single day in order to feed the horse, or go to trouble arranging for somebody. This is not a commitment I would want to make. (This said, I totally see the need for you to keep the horse and find a way for him to live there.) In case you can't rent out your place: do you all have to move? Can't your DH move and commute on weekends? (We did 8 years of that) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OnTheBrink Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Oh my heavens, my dd would think she'd died and gone to heaven! Competitive rent AND a horse! We're there! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kalypso Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 We would LOVE to rent a place like yours.:) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
happypamama Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 I'd rent from you (your place sounds lovely!), though I'd have to take into consideration the cost of hay. You may need to discount the cost of hay from the rent and make sure it's easy for the renters to get the hay too. (Would frequent trips to get hay be necessary, or a pickup truck? Those might be deal-breakers for some people. Also, what about mowing the lawn -- would that need to be done?) But all of that for a reasonable rental price, just to feed a horse a couple of times a day? Absolutely! (Then again, we have a couple of acres and have an outdoor furnace that needs to be fed twice a day in the winter, so a horse wouldn't be that much of a stretch.) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BlsdMama Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Yep, absolutely. And a shame you don't live in northern Oregon... We're in the market. :) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Parrothead Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 There are some that will take you up on your terms in a heartbeat. Then some like me that wouldn't touch the place with a ten-foot pole. The only reason we remember to feed the dog and cats is because they do not let us forget. Up underfoot, meowing, scratching, whining, begging. The horse in the barn would get forgotten. I hope you get someone who knows himself well enough to know what he can/can't handle. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alicia64 Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 I would totally do it, but when you do find someone get references on them (and check them out). I used to work in rescue No. CA and the lies I heard were amazing. I learned (sadly) not to trust people and to check out whatever I needed to for the sake of the animal. I would just hate for your wonderful horse to not get fed properly because the fun wore off for the new residents. Good luck, Alley Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Liz CA Posted January 15, 2011 Author Share Posted January 15, 2011 Since you asked: I would definitely not rent your place. It would mean that I would have to be HOME every single day in order to feed the horse, or go to trouble arranging for somebody. This is not a commitment I would want to make.(This said, I totally see the need for you to keep the horse and find a way for him to live there.) In case you can't rent out your place: do you all have to move? Can't your DH move and commute on weekends? (We did 8 years of that) Yes, this is the rub. It would have to be someone who does not mind being around most of the time. Dh will live in a Motel near his work for the next 2-3 months or however long it takes us to figure out what to do. Doing this long term would cost too much. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Liz CA Posted January 15, 2011 Author Share Posted January 15, 2011 I would just hate for your wonderful horse to not get fed properly because the fun wore off for the new residents. Good luck, Alley Yes, very true. It can all sound great in the moment you consider it, especially if children are gung ho, but as time goes on they develop other interests and then it becomes a chore. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gratia271 Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 SIn case you can't rent out your place: do you all have to move? Can't your DH move and commute on weekends? (We did 8 years of that) :iagree: We are considering that right now. Regarding renting from you on those terms, we certainly would! :001_smile: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CalicoKat Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 We're negotiating renting a farm and the rent includes feeding 4 horses, a coop of chickens, all the barnyard cats, AND old-going-to-live-here-til-he-dies farm dog. The hay & feed is provided for the horses. We can't get there fast enough! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brenda in FL Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 It sounds like a great place to rent as long as the upkeep won't be too much - If I were to sign a lease - I'd want the grounds upkeep to be included in the rent! (And if you have areas that would become too overgrown if not kept up with then you will probably want tot be in control of that anyway!) We rent our home in Florida, and based on our experience with tenants - I would not trust the upkeep of a family pet to the tenants whatsoever! I would make arrangements for someone to come on sight or try to find other arrangements (any animal refuge centers that might take him for a financial contribution?) If you decide to trust the tenants - definitely have the hay delivered and have someone check periodically to make sure the horse is properly cared for. Other things to consider - a home warranty contract and sufficient liability insurance. Be sure to check references and wage/salary info. If you can require automatic rent payments - do it - especially since you may not want to drive the round trip to collect the rent each month. (We have yet to get renters that pay on time! - but we have a property manager that handles collections.) And CONGRATS!!!:party: It feels so great to be out of unemployment, doesn't it? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tex-mex Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Since you asked: I would definitely not rent your place. It would mean that I would have to be HOME every single day in order to feed the horse, or go to trouble arranging for somebody. This is not a commitment I would want to make.(This said, I totally see the need for you to keep the horse and find a way for him to live there.) In case you can't rent out your place: do you all have to move? Can't your DH move and commute on weekends? (We did 8 years of that) :iagree: You really need a caretaker of the farm. Not a renter who may (or may not) abide by your requests. But then, you are PAYING the caretaker to keep the property in good condition? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dana Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Dh will live in a Motel near his work for the next 2-3 months or however long it takes us to figure out what to do. Doing this long term would cost too much. Congrats on the job! My mom has worked away from home and on occasion has rented an apartment - or just a room - when the commute was too far to stay at home. I don't want to be away from my husband for that long, so I don't see it as a long term option for us. But while you're making adjustments, it may be cheaper than a hotel. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dangermom Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Hooray, I'm so happy for you! Congratulations! Our unemployment problem has just been solved too; my husband is commuting to Redding. I can't think of several people who would jump at it if they could, so I'm sure you could find someone. Me, I would not touch it! :D But if you like, I'll spread the word among my acquaintances. PM me if so, and tell me where the new job is. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
goldberry Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 I think you will definitely find someone. It would just be important for either you or someone you trust to check up on things. Maybe come down once per month to collect the rent? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JenneinCA Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Not in a million bajillion years. I would hate to have the horse get sick and then be responsible for it. Somedays it is all I can do to keep up with the living things I must care for. I wouldn't take on another one. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Renee in NC Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 In a heartbeat. Too bad you're not in the central NC region.....:D Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Renee in NC Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Since you asked: I would definitely not rent your place. It would mean that I would have to be HOME every single day in order to feed the horse, or go to trouble arranging for somebody. This is not a commitment I would want to make.(This said, I totally see the need for you to keep the horse and find a way for him to live there.) In case you can't rent out your place: do you all have to move? Can't your DH move and commute on weekends? (We did 8 years of that I cannot even imagine living this way. I can imagine that the two weekend days would be absolutely miserable as dh adjusted to all the noise again just in time to go back to his during the week house. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JustGin Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Wow! Sign me up! I wish!!! That sounds like a great deal. Sad for you that you have to leave it, but glad your family will have that job security again. I'd say go for it! Anyone with young, active kids would be nuts to pass that up. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Audrey Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 (edited) I wouldn't rent from you because I wouldn't want the responsibility of the horse. It isn't the feeding it or caring for it that is the problem. The problem is that your old horse is likely to get sick and I'd feel obligated to bring the vet in (because I would not let an animal suffer), or it would likely die on me of its advanced age. I really could not take on that kind of financial or emotional responsibility. Not trying to rain on your parade, but just being honest. I would suggest that you rent out the house and acreage, minus your horse's paddock and barn, then hire someone else to care for the horse properly. This way you can more clearly detail what the full range of the horse's needs are and what to do in case of emergency, and you can be very selective and get someone who actually knows about horse care (which most people who have not had horses before have no clue -- they think you just feed it and ride it around -- and you know a horse needs more than that). Make it clear to the renters that someone will be caring for the horse. If there are access issues, figure that out before you advertise to rent. Edited January 15, 2011 by Audrey Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Renee in NC Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Congrats on the job! My mom has worked away from home and on occasion has rented an apartment - or just a room - when the commute was too far to stay at home. I don't want to be away from my husband for that long, so I don't see it as a long term option for us. But while you're making adjustments, it may be cheaper than a hotel. This is what dh will do if he gets a job in NC now - we will stay here until the end of the school year. Short-term, I can handle it (sort of - it is still rough), but not long-term. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Michelle My Bell Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Yes, this is the rub. It would have to be someone who does not mind being around most of the time. Dh will live in a Motel near his work for the next 2-3 months or however long it takes us to figure out what to do. Doing this long term would cost too much. My husband lives part time in Louisville, KY. He lives in a seminary students personal home and rents the space for $150 per month. Contact local christian schools or area churches to see if there is someone who is looking to rent to your husband. You could save hundreds or thousands. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
missmoe Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Is there a teen or someone in the neighborhood that could be responable for the horse? Someone could rent with the understanding the horse would be there and so and so is coming by to take care of it. That might make it more doable for some people. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kristavws Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 (edited) .BUT beg you to feed the horse twice a day. I am thinking I would have to either decrease the rent by an agreed upon amount so the cost of hay is set off, or ask a neighbor if he would drop off hay and pay him for his trouble. Does the horse have to be fed twice a day? In the winter, we just unload a large, round bale into their pasture, and the horses free-feed on it. We usually only need to put a new bale out once a week. Krista Edited January 15, 2011 by kristavws Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SonshineLearner Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 NO, I'm moving in!! What's my new address?? :) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
*Jessica* Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 I would suggest that you rent out the house and acreage, minus your horse's paddock and barn, then hire someone else to care for the horse properly. This way you can more clearly detail what the full range of the horse's needs are and what to do in case of emergency, and you can be very selective and get someone who actually knows about horse care (which most people who have not had horses before have no clue -- they think you just feed it and ride it around -- and you know a horse needs more than that). Make it clear to the renters that someone will be caring for the horse. If there are access issues, figure that out before you advertise to rent. :iagree: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SonshineLearner Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Just a thought... Check out churches and spots to see if he can "rent a room" from someone... :) That might work out better... financially... at least ;) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BlsdMama Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 An added thought... If they have a dog, you'll want to see that the dog is good around your horse. You'd hate to have someone's dog terrorizing your animal. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mommaduck Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 I'd do it! And my brood would love it! The only thing would be that it would be best if you paid the neighbour to drop off what was needed (as I wouldn't have a truck) or (for those who do have a truck) let the renters dock the feed and care from the rent. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Liz CA Posted January 15, 2011 Author Share Posted January 15, 2011 The problem is that your old horse is likely to get sick and I'd feel obligated to bring the vet in (because I would not let an animal suffer), or it would likely die on me of its advanced age. I really could not take on that kind of financial or emotional responsibility. Not trying to rain on your parade, but just being honest. I was thinking of this (potential) dilemma. I have a regular vet and I would inform him of the changed circumstances. I would want whoever cares for the old boy call me in case of illness so I can assess if I need to call my vet or run up there myself (2 hours but could be done in an emergency). I know that it would be terrible if he croaked while someone else was taking care of him even though it would not be their fault. But I totally understand what you are saying since I have taken care of other people's pets and always prayed that nobody would keel over while in my care. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Liz CA Posted January 15, 2011 Author Share Posted January 15, 2011 Large, round bales are almost unheard of in CA but I know what you are talking about because I grew up in area where we kids had a lot of fun with them :) I suppose I could try to free-feed him. It should not really be a problem. He has outlived all other horses and is by himself, so he does not have to compete for food. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
regentrude Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 I cannot even imagine living this way. I can imagine that the two weekend days would be absolutely miserable as dh adjusted to all the noise again just in time to go back to his during the week house. Well, our current situation is the first time we have the luxury of both having jobs in the same town. We've done anything from 50 miles to 950 miles apart. One gets used to it (yes, it was tough when the kids were really little) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LidiyaDawn Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 We'd jump at the chance to rent your place! :D Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mazakaal Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Well, I don't think your request is unreasonable, but it may not be easy to find the right renter with a condition like that. I'd be afraid that someone would agree to the condition because they want the house, but not really be serious about looking after the horse properly. Can you rent the house at the going rate and give the renter the option of a decrease on the rent if they want to look after the horse or find a local teen who you could pay to look after the horse? Maybe someone has already suggested this. I haven't read all the responses. Hope you find something that works for you. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
renmew Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 :D Please do! Western Slope of the Sierra Nevada Foothills in CA. My family is right now looking for a new home to rent... any chance you're south of Bakersfield, like northern Los Angeles County? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jenL Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 We would LOVE to rent your place, but I don't think Dh would move to CA anytime soon! My first thought in reading this was, "Gosh I hope she finds some incredibly trustworthy tenants." I would hate for someone to be enchanted by the idea and then neglect your horse. Finding the right family is essential, but I'm sure you've already thought of this. :) Maybe having the neighbor deliver the hay would be one way of determining your horse will get what he needs. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tammyla Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 I wanted to say congratulations on the new job. Renting with an older animal for me would be a concern too. Health, feeding and care would be new to me. Someone with plenty of experience with horses and their care would be a good idea. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stacy in NJ Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 I would first have your dh rent a small apartment near his new job as a place to stay during the week. If the job didn't turn out as planned it would be a terrible if you'd already rented out your home. Although it will probably bring with it it's own stresses, I'd consider having dh live seperately during the week until he had been in his job for a period of time. At that point, you may find a way to part with your horse in a more managable manner. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pretty in Pink Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 We would not rent from you because I am not an animal person and I don't want the responsibility of caring for someone else's animal. That said, I can see that this would be a terrific opportunity for a family that was into that sort of thing. I think you should provide the hay or discount the rent for the cost. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Carol in Cal. Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 If you're in Northern CA, I might be able to help you find someone. Do you feel comfortable emailing me your town? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
justasque Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 Dh will live in a Motel near his work for the next 2-3 months or however long it takes us to figure out what to do. Doing this long term would cost too much. Haven't read the rest of the thread yet, but do check out the options in the area where he'll be. My dad has been able to find great "bed and breakfast" type arrangements in private homes several times when he had extended business trips. So much nicer than a hotel, and cheaper too. Perhaps if you put the word out you can find a family who would be willing to rent him a spare room. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cindyg Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 (edited) I can imagine trusting a stranger to live in my house. But I cannot imagine trusting a stranger to care for my elderly horse. I just can't imagine it. I think I'd have to separate the two issues: Somebody to live in the house and something to do with the horse. It might, possibly, maybe, slight-chance work out that the same family would do both; but I wouldn't count on it. ETA: You'd have to spell out very carefully who was responsible for what, who pays for what, what they can and can't do with the horse (They're almost sure to put kids on him), and who's responsible for damages and injuries. I just can't imagine doing this. Edited January 15, 2011 by Cindyg Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Susan C. Posted January 15, 2011 Share Posted January 15, 2011 I agree with Stacy. We have been through several job losses with a few moves attached. In hind sight, I would stay at your home, and rent a small apartment (2 BR) on a short term lease where dh works. Two hours is not a long drive, if you are missing him, you can go and spend a few days. Put fold up chairs and air mattresses in it. And, it will be a much better crowd than the motel! When you rent your house out, you will have to probably commit to a one year lease. And you will probably have to commit to a one year lease on dh's end. Too long and not flexible enough, BTDT!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Liz CA Posted January 16, 2011 Author Share Posted January 16, 2011 If you're in Northern CA, I might be able to help you find someone.Do you feel comfortable emailing me your town? I PM'd you but looks like you are a little south of us. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Liz CA Posted January 16, 2011 Author Share Posted January 16, 2011 (edited) Haven't read the rest of the thread yet, but do check out the options in the area where he'll be. My dad has been able to find great "bed and breakfast" type arrangements in private homes several times when he had extended business trips. So much nicer than a hotel, and cheaper too. Perhaps if you put the word out you can find a family who would be willing to rent him a spare room. Thanks for the great advice! We just looked at Craig's List and found something cheaper than the lowest motel rate available. Dh just e-mailed them. Also someone suggested calling churches in the area to see if someone has a room to rent. He may do this as well once he is there and can see it in the evening. Edited January 16, 2011 by Liz CA Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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