How Much Do Horses Cost in the UK?
Horse’s Experience
Experience is a key factor in determining how much a horse is worth. If they are unbroken they will have less experience than a top eventer that can do dressage, show jumping, and cross country. Experience should be a decision made early on regardless of price.
If you think you need more confidence, then an older more experienced horse would be your best choice. If you fancy a challenge and want to see the horse develop and learn, then a younger horse may be the choice to go. Experience a lot of the time determines the price of the horse.
The Health of the Horse
The health of the horse can decrease the horse’s price dramatically, as this is something you will need to consider once owning the horse too, as it could lead to further health problems with more money having to be spent. The biggest factor is doing your research and knowing the extent of the health condition.
Something like wind sucking can be a manageable health condition, along with sweet itch or laminitis. If managed properly these don't have to be deal-breaker problems. Health issues to do with joints or respiratory issues for example could be a little more serious. It is always advised to do a five-stage vetting before purchasing anyways, using a different vet to the owners. This is very important when wanting to buy a horse.
Lineage
Who are the parents? If your horse comes from a reputable family that is known for its good health, experience, and good nature, chances are that’s going to have a higher impact on the price. It works the opposite way too, though, if their parents aren’t well known or haven’t had much of a career; this can devalue the horse (at least from an economic sense).
