Close-up black and white photo of a white horse with a flowing mane, looking over its shoulder with a soft, contemplative expression.

Working Farms for Sale in Albemarle County, Virginia

Argricultural, Horse & Cattle Farms for Sale in Albemarle County, Virginia

Albemarle County blends the elegance of Charlottesville’s cultural life with the authenticity of country living. Rolling pastures, Blue Ridge vistas, and fertile soils create a landscape perfectly suited to horses, cattle, goats, and sheep—as well as vineyards and diversified agriculture. From Ivy and Free Union to Keswick, North Garden, and Earlysville, this is where working farms thrive alongside timeless rural beauty. Whether you envision a private equestrian retreat, a profitable livestock operation, or a boutique vineyard, Albemarle offers the land, infrastructure, and community to bring your farm vision to life.

View Albemarle Farms Designed for Livestock, Horses & Sustainable Living

Thinking of Selling? What Is Your Albemarle County Working Farm Worth?

Valuing a working farm in Albemarle County requires more than acreage or house size. Key factors include soil quality, water supply, fencing, barns, crop potential, livestock facilities, and overall agricultural productivity. These are the details that make a property valuable to buyers who want both farmland and rural lifestyle. We combine local market expertise with a careful review of your farm’s unique features to determine its true market position. Whether you own a historic farmstead, a vineyard property, or a modern agricultural estate, we’ll provide an accurate valuation and create a marketing plan that highlights its strengths, ensuring your farm reaches the right buyers in today’s competitive market.

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Farms Designed for Livestock, Sheep, Horses & Sustainable Living

Across Albemarle’s foothills and open meadows, productive farms take many forms—each connected by a shared respect for the land. The county’s agricultural heritage, dependable rainfall, and well-drained soils support everything from cattle and equestrian properties to vineyards and crop farms. With access to Charlottesville’s services and markets, owners enjoy both convenience and country tranquility.

Horse Farms and Equestrian Estates

Horse farms for sale in Albemarle County commonly feature center-aisle barns, fenced paddocks, indoor or outdoor arenas, and easy access to scenic riding. From dressage and eventing to foxhunting traditions, Albemarle’s equestrian lifestyle is supported by quality farriers, veterinarians, and local venues—delivering elegance and performance in equal measure.

Cattle Farms and Livestock Operations

Albemarle’s open pastures, reliable water, and rotational grazing potential make it a standout for cattle, goats, and sheep. Buyers seeking cattle farms near Charlottesville find an ideal mix of acreage, forage quality, and access to suppliers and auction markets. Whether your goal is cow-calf, stocker, or diversified livestock, Albemarle supports efficient herd management and growth.

Goat, Sheep, and Mixed-Livestock Farms

Smaller ruminants fit naturally into Albemarle’s pastures. Goat and sheep farms support dairy, meat, and fiber production, while diversified operations can integrate chickens, bees, orchards, and market gardens. Mixed agriculture is increasingly popular with buyers pursuing self-sufficiency and farm-to-table enterprises.

Agricultural Properties and Crop Farms

Agricultural land for sale in Albemarle County VA supports hay, corn, small grains, orchards, and specialty produce. Gentle slopes and rural zoning allow flexible field layouts and equipment access. Proximity to Charlottesville creates direct-to-consumer opportunities, including CSA shares and farmers’ markets.

Vineyards and Wineries

Albemarle is central to Virginia’s wine country. With elevation, airflow, and well-drained soils, the county favors varietals like Viognier, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Vineyards range from boutique lifestyle plantings to more ambitious commercial blocks—with opportunities for tasting rooms, events, and agritourism (subject to zoning).

Country Estates with Agricultural Potential

Many of Albemarle’s finest country homes and estates are also working farms—pairing modern living with functional acreage. Fenced pastures, woodlands, streams, and multi-purpose barns enable equestrian pursuits, hobby farming, or a private retreat with real agricultural capability.

Albemarle’s location—adjacent to Charlottesville and within reach of Richmond and Washington, D.C.—offers unmatched access for those balancing work and rural life. Whether you’re drawn to horses, livestock, vineyards, or broad-acre cultivation, Albemarle invites you to build a legacy on the land.

Why Work With Bridget Archer

Bridget Archer, Realtor® with McLean Faulconer, Inc., specializes in Albemarle County farms, estates, and rural properties. With hands-on equestrian experience and deep local knowledge, Bridget delivers presentation, positioning, and targeted outreach that connect your property with qualified buyers.

Through CharlottesvilleCountryEstates.com, your listing benefits from professional photography, editorial storytelling, IDX syndication, and regional/national exposure—ensuring your working farm stands out where it matters most.


Ready to Explore Working Farms in Albemarle County, VA?

From horses and cattle to goats, sheep, vineyards, and diversified agriculture, Albemarle offers land that truly works. Let’s match your goals with the right acreage, soils, and improvements.

Schedule a Private Consultation Get a Farm Valuation

Personalized guidance from Bridget Archer | McLean Faulconer, Inc. | Charlottesville Country Estates

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What Is Your Albemarle County Farm Worth?

If you’re considering selling your Albemarle County farm, the first step is understanding its market value. A precise valuation ensures your property is priced right, gains strong attention from qualified buyers, and achieves the best possible outcome. Online tools can provide an initial estimate, but to fine-tune your farm’s value we’ll want to view it in person. This allows us to account for the details that matter most—such as upgrades, acreage, condition. We’ll provide an accurate valuation and a personalized marketing plan that showcases your farm’s distinctive appeal.


Frequently Asked Questions: Albemarle County VA Working Farms

  1. What types of working farms are common in Albemarle County?
    Horse farms, cattle and mixed-livestock operations (goats, sheep), crop/hay farms, and vineyards are prevalent across the county.
  2. Can I keep horses, cattle, goats, and sheep on one property?
    Often yes—mixed herds are feasible with proper fencing, water, pasture rotation, and zoning compliance.
  3. How does zoning affect livestock, barns, and tasting rooms?
    Zoning influences animal density, agricultural buildings, and agritourism uses such as tasting rooms or events. Consult county planning early.
  4. How much acreage do I need for cattle or horses?
    It depends on soils, forage, and rotation. Higher-quality pastures and rotational grazing improve carrying capacity.
  5. What fencing and water systems are recommended?
    Species-appropriate fencing and year-round water are essential; cross-fencing supports rotational grazing and pasture health.
  6. Is Albemarle good for vineyards?
    Yes—elevation, airflow, and drainage favor quality varietals. Soil tests and site analysis guide planting decisions.
  7. How are Albemarle working farms valued?
    By acreage, soils, water, barns/arenas, fencing, housing, vineyard blocks, and income potential—calibrated to current demand.
  8. Are there tax incentives or conservation programs?
    Land-use taxation and conservation easements may reduce carrying costs; confirm eligibility with the county and your tax advisor.
  9. What financing options exist for agricultural properties?
    Conventional, portfolio, and ag-specific lenders are common. Requirements vary by intended use and improvements.
  10. Can I host agritourism or a tasting room?
    Possibly—subject to zoning, licensing, parking, and traffic considerations.