LEASING & OWNERSHIP GUIDE

Intro

Choosing the right horse or pony is one of the most important decisions in a rider’s journey.

At Cedarhill, we guide families through each stage—whether that means continuing in the lesson program, entering a lease, or purchasing a horse. Our goal is always the same: to match the rider with the right situation for their current level, long-term goals, and overall experience.

How Riders Typically Progress

Most riders advance through several stages over the course of a few years. As skills develop, so do the needs of both horse and rider.

Early Development

In the beginning, riders benefit most from safe, experienced lesson horses. These horses help build:

  • Confidence

  • Consistency

  • Strong foundational skills

At this stage, riding multiple horses is often more beneficial than riding just one.

Intermediate Progression

As riders begin jumping higher (typically around the 2’–2’6 range), consistency becomes more important.

This is often when families begin exploring leasing. A lease allows the rider to:

  • Ride more frequently

  • Build a relationship with one horse

  • Continue progressing with appropriate support

Advanced Riding

As riders move into higher levels (such as 2’6 and above), they typically require a horse with:

  • Greater athletic ability

  • More specialized training

  • The ability to compete consistently

At this point, both leasing and ownership become viable paths depending on goals and commitment.

Leasing vs. Owning

Every family’s situation is different. The right decision depends on goals, timeline, and level of commitment.

Leasing

Leasing is often the most flexible and practical option for growing riders.

Benefits of leasing:

  • Lower upfront cost than purchasing

  • Ability to match the horse to the rider’s current level

  • Flexibility to change horses as skills progress

  • Less long-term commitment

Leasing is especially valuable during periods of rapid growth, when a rider may outgrow a horse within a year or two.

Ownership

Ownership can be the right choice when a rider is ready for a longer-term partnership.

Ownership may make sense when:

  • A rider is consistently performing at a higher level

  • Goals include long-term competition

  • The same horse can support development over several years

Ownership offers stability and consistency, but also comes with increased responsibility and long-term financial commitment.

Understanding the Full Cost

Whether leasing or owning, it’s important to understand that the purchase or lease fee is only one part of the overall investment.

Ongoing expenses may include:

  • Board

  • Lesson program

  • Farrier (shoeing)

  • Veterinary care

  • Dental care

  • Supplements and medications

  • Insurance

  • Clipping and grooming care

We help families understand these costs clearly so there are no surprises along the way.

View Monthly Cost Breakdown (link to cost page)

How Cedarhill Supports You

One of the most valuable parts of the Cedarhill program is guidance.

We help families:

  • Evaluate whether leasing or purchasing is the right next step

  • Identify horses that match the rider’s level and goals

  • Navigate trial rides, leases, and purchases

  • Avoid common (and costly) mistakes

If the right horse is not available at Cedarhill, we may also assist in sourcing options through our extended professional network.

When to Consider Your Next Step

Families often ask when it’s the “right time” to lease or buy.

While every rider is different, it may be time to explore options if:

  • Your rider is progressing quickly and needs more consistency

  • They are showing increased commitment to the sport

  • They are preparing for more advanced lessons or competition

  • They would benefit from additional rides each week

The best next step is always a conversation with your instructor.