Buying a Horse " 10 Tips you Should Know Before You Buy a Horse
Buying a horse involves a long term commitment that you should understand fully. Before you purchase a horse, make sure you did your research about owning and taking care of a horse. Make sure that you have prepared enough room for your horse to move around. You must also be very sure of what type of horse you would like to purchase.
Here are some additional tips for you to know before you buy a horse.
1. Make an intelligent choice of the type of horse you will buy and stick to it in case your seller tries to convince you to buy a different one. Remember that sellers are very good at convincing people to buy anything. Do not be influenced, tempted or pressured by anybody in buying a horse.
Do not rush into buying a horse because there is no reason to. Take your time searching for the right one. The best way is to find a seller who will let you lease the horse before you buy it. It will surely help you decide whether or not to buy the horse.
2. Do not let your seller know of your budget. Do not let your seller feel too comfortable that you can afford his horse. Do not show your seller that you like the horse so much in that you will take the horse home no matter what. This can save you money by leaving the option for negotiation open.
3. If you are purchasing a horse for your child, make sure that he or she understands the importance of not showing excitement to the seller.
4. Make it clear to the seller that you will not buy a horse if the instructor does not approve of it. This will reduce the level of pressure exerted on you.
5. To help you with your decision, ask your instructor to inspect the horse before you buy it. The only person who knows what you need and what suits you when it comes to horses is your instructor. Your instructor might ask you to pay for his or her professional advice and educated opinion.
6. Estimate the sales price your seller will offer before you make an offer. You can ask your instructor of what he or she thinks is a fair offer. In estimating the sales price, consider the current market conditions, the time the horse has been for sale and the sellers personal financial circumstances. Perhaps you can include in your estimate how much the seller likes you and thinks you will provide a good home for his/her horse.
7. If you are unable to bargain, ask your seller for concessions like free tack. Or you can ask your seller for free delivery of the horse. These are examples of industry standard practices, so you will not insult your seller.
8. You must also be aware that you may have to pay for sales commission, which typically runs from 10-20% of the purchase price. So ask up front how much the commission will be and who will be receiving them.
9. When buying a horse make sure that it has been checked by an independent third party veterinarian. This is a crucial step that most buyers overlook. If possible, attend the vet check yourself. Take heed of the vets findings because in the end you will be the one to decide whether or not to buy the horse.
10. When you finally decide to buy the horse, make sure to put the transaction between you and the seller on a written contract. Make sure that the contract clearly states all the terms as well as the warranties of your purchase.
About the Author
About the Author: Lisa Blackstone is an equestrian and specializes in providing guidelines and tips on horse riding. She hosts the Horse and Rider Radio Show in Atlanta, Georgia, where she discusses information relevant to the newcomer. For more tips and guidelines go to
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