BUYER  BEWARE!!!

 Due to increased development in this area and the popularity of the FETA trail system, we have received a growing number of inquiries related to trail access and permanent trail protection.   Some purchasers have been surprised after closing.  To avoid disappointed expectations, prospective purchasers, sellers, developers and realtors are advised that:

1.  FETA trails are entirely on private property.  Many miles of trails are permanently protected by riding easements, and we are working to protect the remainder.  However, your trail access protection is entirely dependent upon the location of the property in question.  Trails not protected by permanent easement may be closed by landowners.  This happens rarely, but is a risk.

2.  Because property with direct FETA trail access has historically sold at a substantial premium, buyers could determine the value of that access to them and the price would usually reflect this valuable amenity.  Pricing models in some newer developments do not, however, seem to reflect lack of direct FETA trail access.  Do not assume that because the  price asked is comparable to land on FETA trails that the land does in fact have access.

3.   FETA landowners have a long standing rule that “if you want to ride on my trails, you have to let me ride on yours” if they adjoin FETA trails (present or future).  This reciprocity requirement has worked fairly and equitably for years, and helped enormously in preserving FETA trails.  If you are purchasing in an “Equestrian Development”, be sure that the covenants of the development permit access to their trails by FETA.  If FETA system trails are in the area now or expand to the area in the future and can “hook up” to those trails,  riding by  FETA members must be permitted or landowners in that development will lose their ability to join the FETA system.  This is a matter of fundamental fairness, and cannot be waived.  Even if it is not in an area where FETA may expand trails, “exclusive” landowner only trails may result in your exclusion from riding on neighboring trails.  So make sure that your development’s covenants will permit future access by other equestrian users, including FETA.                     

4.  Many ads  use the FETA name as a marketing tool  for property nowhere near the trails or with long dangerous hacks on busy roads.  It has even been used for property not in the FETA membership area!  For your protection, you should ask the seller and realtor for a written representation that if you purchase this property you are and will remain eligible to join FETA and specifying the location of the nearest trail access.

5.  To avoid confusion and disappointment, we suggest that you work with an experienced equestrian realtor who knows the trail systems and equestrian areas.  Many out of area realtors have no experience or knowledge of the area’s equestrian assets, so Buyer Beware.

Thank you for your interest and support of the historic and unique FETA Trails.  We are happy to provide factual information about the location of FETA trails and access. 

For further information, please contact president@fetatrails.org.