Buying or selling a horse really is a complex and perplexing matter.
First and foremost, you have to feel a level of comfort with the seller.
This is one of the keys to a successful experience. Not all sellers are the same, and not all buyers are the same. Spend some time getting to know the seller. They should want to spend the same time getting to know you! This is a big purchase!
Value is one of the most subjective things I have come across in the horse industry. What determines the value of a horse? Costs associated with rearing and caring for the animal (feed, handling, training, medical expenses, farrier work, board/livery, etc)? Future speculative show success value? Replacement value? Emotional attachment value? There is no standard and that explains the diversity in prices in our own breed, and across the industry. The old adage "you get what you pay for" usually applies except of course in times of hardship and a poor economy. In times like these, you will find "screaming deals" in nearly all facets of life. As they say, cash is king in times like these. The question is...Can you get an exceptional animal at an exceptional price? Sometimes BUT, you can also get cheated!
So how does one determine value in times like these? We all want the most for our money, but must be careful not to compromise quality in our quest for value. You must educate yourself. Learn everything you can about the item or horse you are about to buy. Deals are good right now, but don't get caught up in the hype or find yourself pressed to make a deal before you have had time to investigate. Don't fall prey to pressure sales tactics. It is always better to regret a missed purchased than to regret a bad purchase. Ask questions: WHY has the seller set the price as such (high or low), what justifies the price asked, etc.
Last but not least, when the time does come to make your purchase, try to see the item or horse you are buying in person. Pictures can hide countless flaws and we all know in today's modern technological world, photoshop is a tool used often. If you can't visit the horse in person, ask for video of the horse in action, have the seller walk around the horse while it is standing and get views from ALL angles. Arrange a prepurchase exam by a veterinarian of your choice. All this is very important in the decision making process. You have many choices and you can find excellent value for your dollar- if you know what to look for. All it takes is some common sense and of course, knowledge of the breed you are purchasing.
