When looking for horses for sale, there are a few points which are worth thinking about in order to make the buying process easier, and to make sure you end up with your perfect horse.

• No horse is perfect – just make sure that the one you buy has faults that you can put up with and that won’t reduce your enjoyment.
• Take an expert with you, someone who is aware of your capabilities and strengths. Ideally take someone who is able to spot {whether the horse is lame} lameness or illness. Or even your instructor who will be able to tell if the chosen horse is suitable for your style of riding – your aptitude and confidence.
• Always check the horse’s papers and passport.  A horse passport is not proof that the horse is owned by the person selling it so ask if there is a receipt as proof of purchase. It is unlwful to sell or purchase horses without a passport.
• Ask if all vaccinations are up to date. A new course of vaccinations can cost a lot of money and take many months to come into effect if you wish to compete.  You will not be popular if you move a horse to a new horse if it brings illness along as well.
• Once a decision is made, engage a qualified vet to perform out the highest check that you can buy. Do not let your heart rule your head or be pressured into purchasing if you feel you need the horse checked out by your vet.
• Where possible see the horse or pony performing the tasks you would like it to do. Retraining a horse will add considerably to the total cost if you aren’t in a position to do this yourself.
• If possible negotiate a trial period in which the horse can be returned if it is not suitable.
• Make sure you are realistic when buying a youngster, ask yourself if you have the necessary experience to bring it on. Looking at it differently, a more mature horse may just have the stability and experience to give you confidence and help you learn you the basics.
• Don’t feel you have to buy the first one you view and don’t be pressurised by the many other people that are waiting to buy the horse if you don’t – very often this is just a ploy to push you to make an impulse buy. Take your time when buying a horse.
• As soon as the sale is completed make sure you insure the horse before you consider transporting it.  The majority of injuries occur during transit or whilst introducing a horse into a new yard with new companions.
• Trust your judgement – if you think the vendor is concealing something from you then they most probably are. 
• Be mindful that your horse is a huge investment of both time and money – be sure you have considered a budget for all the expenses that you will encounter. 

Finally, enjoy your new horse and enjoy many hours horse riding together!

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