If you have no desire to train a horse or have a green horse (young inexperienced horse), then you ought to look at buying a horse that is around 5 years and older. That way the horse has had a number of years where he has been ridden and taught. If you are looking to learn a particular sport and compete, then it could be to your advantage to buy a school master.

This is an older horse that has successfully learned and usually competed in a sport and is looking for a little less action. The owner may not think the horse is ready for retirement and would be an excellent teacher for a beginner rider starting out. Depending on the age and health of the horse, you could learn and begin to compete on the same horse. Or you could learn on the older horse and buy a younger horse once you start competing. Of course that leaves you with another question of what to do with the older horse?

How much can you afford to spend on the horse? This question helps you decide whether you buy a young horse, an older horse, or even a foal. If you are seriously looking to compete you may be more concerned about bloodlines. Bloodlines relate to a horses ancestry. Typically horses with good bloodlines are pricier, so buying a foal could cut the cost however you have to then wait a number of years until you could compete with your purchase.

It should be noted that a foal with excellent bloodlines and good conformation (body proportion) can cost far more than a horse with an unknown or unproven bloodline. Usually a horse that has good bloodlines or has proven himself in a sport is going to cost you the most. Not only do you consider the cost in buying the horse, but in also purchasing all the equipment you'll need for riding and caring for your horse.

Do you already have all the tack necessary, riding gear and grooming equipment? This can add up to a tidy sum and you may need to lower your budget so that you can buy all the equipment you need.