Buying or Selling a Horse
If buying or selling a horse privately then caution is advised. ‘Caveat Emptor’ applies, that is, let the buyer be aware. The onus is on the buyer to be satisfied that the horse is fully fit for the purpose they have in mind. The sellers are not obliged to disclose any problems the horse has but they must not mislead the buyer. If the horse is advertised, there must be honest representation of the horse’s character and ability.
A written contract of the transaction is advised, and this should set out the terms of the sale or purchase. In the event of a dispute, without a written contract, it can be exceedingly difficult to prove what was agreed between the parties. If a vendor or seller is reluctant to commit the deal to paper, then it might be better to look elsewhere to purchase another horse. Verbal agreements are difficult to resolve whenever a dispute arises.