This month, we sit down with Oliver Carr, a key member of Savills Rural Agency and Equestrian team, whose work spans the sale and purchase of farms, estates and some of the country’s most sought‑after equestrian properties. Based in and around Newmarket for much of his professional life, Oliver has developed deep expertise within the commercial equine world, building long‑standing relationships and a nuanced understanding of what buyers and sellers in this specialist market truly need. In this interview, he shares insights into the evolving demand for equestrian property, the unique dynamics of Newmarket, and the considerations that shape successful moves for clients and their horses.
Describe what you do in one sentence?
I act for private and corporate clients in managing the sale and purchase of farms, estates and equestrian property throughout the eastern counties.
Can you tell us about your personal connection to the equestrian world? Has your interest in horses influenced your career path at Savills?
Whilst not born into the equestrian industry, I have lived in and around Newmarket for all my professional life. The majority of our friends in the area are heavily connected to the equine industry, be they vets, trainers, agents or auctioneers. My interest and knowledge of this niche sector has developed over time such that I have become a real specialist in the commercial equine market with a fine understanding of who the buyers of these top end properties are and their specific requirements at any one time.
Could you tell us about your role in Rural Agency and how it supports clients with equestrian needs?
I am fortunate to form part of the market leading rural agency team selling rural and equestrian property across the country. Collaboration across the business is key to our success and in turn our clients. We have a specialist group of equestrian agents across the country who are regularly in contact with one another to ensure our buyers and sellers receive a first class service. Many equestrian focused buyers are facilities led as opposed to location led and so the ability to offer a true national service to them is vital.
When working with clients relocating with horses or seeking equestrian properties, what are the key considerations you take into account?
Each individual tends to have differing motives and budgets for acquiring equestrian property. Perhaps the key considerations can be classified into land (soil, grass and fencing quality), property (stables, gallops, schools and ancillary facilities), location (particularly in relation to key services - vets, racecourses, markets) and residential (number and quality of housing)
Have you noticed any emerging trends in the demand for equestrian properties among your clients?
Within the commercial equine world, best in class property continue to be in demand from a range of UK and internationally based buyers with many being sold in private deals without reaching the open market. Pricing remains key in the ‘mainstream’ market and properties that are presented well are finding motivated buyers. Those that are overpriced or with significant ‘blemishes’ often take far longer to sell.
What advice would you give to someone relocating to Newmarket?
Newmarket isn’t just another equestrian hub — it is the global centre of Thoroughbred breeding and racing. Buying a property here places you at the heart of the UK’s most important equine cluster with unmatched equestrian infrastructure. This concentration of bloodstock quality is unique in Britain and dramatically enhances breeding, sales and networking opportunities. However, the market is nuanced and opportunities to buy into the best in class properties are rare. Seeking the best in property and legal advice is therefore crucial to success.