Ocala - KNOWN AS "THE HORSE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD"

Ocala properties,
contact Joan Pletcher at
352-347-1777 or
joan@joanpletcher.com..

Ocala has an exquisite variety of equestrian estates, small ranches, and magnificent equestrian farms. The rolling terrain, indescribable views and wonderful year-round climate make Marion County the perfect location to call home. Located in central Florida, the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico are only an hour away. There are a wide variety of outdoor activities at the residents’ fingertips, although equine sports—such as polo, jumping, mounted shooting, dressage, breeding, raising, racing thoroughbreds, carriage driving, cross country events, and various other competitions—tend to fuel the passions of many Ocala residents.

Yet for one Ocala resident, real estate is her passion. “It’s about my customers—buyers and sellers—their needs, their interests, their desires and what’s best for their families, or in the case of equine properties, what’s also best for their horses,” says Joan Pletcher, a Realtor since 1973. Ocala has a wide variety of equestrian properties to fulfill even the most discriminating buyer. A few examples follow.

Padua, a thoroughbred horse farm and breeding center, a $35 million compound situated on 769 spectacular acres with a three-fourths-of-a-mile dirt track; one-mile turf track; 202 stalls; owner’s residence; pool, spa; boat dock with lift; guest residence; manager’s residence; 13 residences for staff; dormitory; executive offices. You even have greenhouses for raising your own organic produce or annuals.

Rabbit Hill at Town Country Farm is the ultimate French Provincial Estate with state-of-the-art equine facilities. The professionally sculpted and architecturally designed main residence sits on 150 private acres of Marion County’s highest elevations, while the exquisite equine facilities are located on 172 acres and include: 3 barns – 44 stalls, beautiful office, covered walker, aqua treadmill and lush green paddocks. Exquisite residences for guests and farm manager.

Longwood Farm is a 120-acre beautifully landscaped and manicured facility for the horses of your choice from the extensive eventing course with exquisite show stables, lighted arena and 2 dressage areas to the custom designed private Ralph Lauren residence plus guest house and hidden cottage.

Second Wind Farm is the perfect location for the person looking for a small but elegant estate close to all the amenities of town. The 40 acre spectacular property features a fully furnished main residence which overlooks the green rolling paddocks. The discerning barn with office, carriage room, workshop and guest suite will have you falling in love with Ocala.

Along with having every type of equine discipline represented, Ocala offers a great downtown area with superb restaurants and stores for one’s dining and shopping pleasures. As a cosmopolitan area, numerous social events and benefits are held throughout the year, which give residents the chance to wear everything from jeans to formal attire. “Residents of Marion County have discovered a wonderful treasure,” Pletcher says. “Our community enjoys a desirable standard of living at an affordable price. Visitors to Ocala, say ‘This is not Florida! It’s different with the Live Oak trees and the Spanish moss. It’s so beautiful here.’”

For information on Ocala properties, contact Joan Pletcher at 352-347-1777 or joan@joanpletcher.com.