SELLING HORSES 

I’ve bought and sold my share of horses in the last 20 years, but recently I’ve displayed considerable discipline when it comes to buying horses for re-sale. Its not because I don’t have a passion for fixer-uppers and matching the perfect horse with the perfect home. Rather, I’m simply a little “miffed” with some horse sellers. One of my students has been shopping for her perfect buckskin for over six months. Here’s what we’ve found:  

  1. Everyone wants a lot of money for their horse, but many people don’t spend any money on their care. When selling your horse, make sure his feet are maintained, teeth are healthy, preventative care current and overall condition is reflective of the way he is being marketed. If he is a $10,000 halter horse, he should look like one! I expect to have to invest some time and effort into a $1000 trail horse but when 4 or more zero’s are present in the asking price, the feet should be trimmed and the horse healthy!
  2. Don’t lie, be as honest as possible during the sale. If you knowingly misrepresent the horse, it may come back to haunt you at a later date! Sure, many buyers overstate their ability, but their level of experience is not something you can change. Telling them that the horse may not be the best “fit” for them is a nice way of protecting yourself, the horse and the buyer. Let shoppers know as much as you know about the horse’s health, level of training, history etc…. There’s nothing wrong with saying you “don’t know” if you truly don’t! Have accurate information available on bloodlines, age, height, weight and Veterinary care when a potential buyer asks. Making a flyer is helpful.
  3. If you’re asking more than $2500, advertising nationally or selling a horse located out of your area, MAKE A VIDEO!

The video should include (at a minimum); standing shots from all four sides, walking away and toward the camera while being led, trotting away and toward the camera while being led, un-tacked (fresh) scenes loose in a pen in all gaits in both directions, any under saddle training the horse has in both directions in all gaits and any special training such as sliding stops, jumping, show appearances, etc… These are just MINIMAL requirements, more can be added if the price/situation warrants.

  1. Don’t be offended when someone makes an offer. A horse is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. If the price offered is too low just say “thank you, but I need more money for my horse”.
  2. Keep the dogs, kids, bystanders and alcohol away from the negotiations. Speak clearly and honestly with the potential buyer. Suggest the buyer get a Veterinary pre-purchase exam to protect all parties. Create a bill of sale using registration numbers if the horse is registered. Have transfer forms available if appropriate. Act like a professional.
  3. If you are not knowledgeable enough to provide the horse’s basic information and demonstration of the horse’s skills, it may be worthwhile to have the sale handled by a broker. Most brokers will take a percent of the sale in exchange for handling the deal. Choose a broker that comes highly recommended, then check references anyway. Agree upon the percent or broker fee in advance as well as any other hidden fees such as board, training or veterinary care. Use a signed contract when possible.

My student’s buckskin mare is out there somewhere. Hopefully the owner has prepared for the sale in advance by following the list above! If so, they’ll be hearing from us soon!