Has anyone gone this route before finally deciding to proceed with lessons, or buy a horse? I was recommending it as a possible for a friend whose daughter wants to start but she is concerned about the costs and her deciding she doesn't like it.

A lease is a good way to cut the costs of horse ownership if money's tight. The major downside to it is that the horse is not yours. When the "lease" is up they can do what they want so if you fall in love with the horse and they choose to sell it, or not renew the lease, you're out of luck. Also, often the owner will want you to be an experienced rider.

I have never heard of a horse lease before. Guess you learn something new every day after all. Can someone elaborate on this for me so I have a better idea on how it works?

Leasing a horse is like leasing a car or a house. You basically "rent" a horse and have rights to it part or all of the time in return for part or all of the board and other fees.

I've leased several horses. All my leases included terms that would have given me first dibs on purchasing the horse if they decided to not renew the lease and sell the horse instead (and a discount if I did purchase said horse). One was a month-to-month lease, one was a 6 month lease, and the other was a yearly lease. Some were better then others, but the same is true of every barn and instructor I've ever had.

I always half leased which gave me 3 days a week to ride, one being a lesson which was a required term of the lease. The owner paid for vet and farrier work. I paid for any lessons and showing I did. Tack was provided, but I usually used my own instead. So for half the board I normally got a pretty good deal without the up front investment.

I've never heard of leasing, but it sounds like an excellent idea! I've been dying to buy a horse, but I can't afford the chunk up front. Is leasing more affordable?

I checked my phone book and there isn't a listing for "horse leasing". Is there another term I should check or just start calling stables and asking them? This would be perfect for me to learn to ride and get familiar with horse care.

I'd check your local stables. They'll know of any and the horses will probably be a lot closer, which would be best. I, too, am thinking of half-leasing. It works out to a lot cheaper than simply owning.

Yes, check the stables. If they don't actually have some horses there at the time that are available to lease then they will know how to help you find one. There are frequently people who are struggling financially for their horse and a half lease will help them.