Evaluating the
Seller/Agent
So you've just been to a farm and seen an
interesting horse. You are
excited about the horse yet you've got this pit in your stomach.
You're just not sure that you can trust the seller and you're
concerned that someone may be cheating you.
The sellers seemed very friendly, but this is a big expenditure
for you and you just can't afford to be ripped off.
What indicators can you use to evaluate the seller and his/her
story about the horse? Here
are some tips that can help you:
Summary:
1. How
old is this horse? If you
end up pursuing a purchase, be sure to check registration papers and
teeth to compare with the buyer's story.
2. What level has this horse shown?
This will tell you what level the horse REALLY is trained to; not
the owners fallacy.
3. At which calibre of shows did the horse compete?
Find out if it was Dressage at Devon or a local schooling show.
4. What
has the horse done in the last year?
If the horse has not been showing you may need to be a bit more
careful about the soundness.
5. What
type of scores did the horse get at the level shown?
6. Who
rode the horse? If it was
an accomplished professional, you cant be as assured that it is suitable
for an amateur.
Summary:
If the horse has been out showing at recognized shows and doing
well, you have a lot of questions answered.
This means the horse probably trailers, has been clipped, can be
ridden with other horses, is relatively sound, and generally competent.
That's a huge confidence builder for me as a buyer.
On the other hand, if the horse doesn't have a show record, I
wouldn't discard it, but would certainly be more skeptical.
You might
also ask:
1. What veterinarian does the work for this horse?
(And then ask…)
2. Would
you be willing to release the medical and soundness history to me?
(Seller’s nearly always say yes to this).
This pursuit may be very enlightening and can be as important as
the vet check you have done.
3. What
medications is the horse currently receiving?
Other
Suggestions:
1. Don’t
be alone when asking questions. Have
someone with you to witness the answers and help you make observations.
2. Take
written notes when asking questions.
Make sure the seller sees you taking these notes.
If the seller is not honest, this note taking may make them be
more careful.
3. Try to cross reference
the seller. The horse world
is small and horse people tend to be connected to others through
blacksmiths, trainers, customers, tack shops and veterinarians. In my experience, horse people are willing to share a good
word about someone, and often even more willing to tell their story if
they’ve been wronged. Ask
around and find out who you’re dealing with.
Note: If you
are using a qualified consultant to help you with this process, you have
a much better chance that your interests are protected. Consider Graemont, Inc. to help you as you make your next
purchase.
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