Buying a first horse is no different from any other large investment except that horses are better at hiding faults than, for example, an SUV. Starter horses are an introduction to equine ownership; everything is new and interesting, but a bad experience can scar a rider for life.
Age of a First Horse
The most common issue riders encounter when buying a first horse is the ideal age of the animal. The first instinct, of course, is to buy the youngest horse possible to ensure many years of companionship. This can be dangerous, however, depending on the rider's ability.
When purchasing starter horses, consider the level at which the rider is currently working. Beginning riders, as a rule, shouldn't buy a first horse younger than ten years old. A more advanced rider might be able to get away with a four- or five-year old horse, depending in the training the animal has received.
Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. There are four-year-old horses who act like they are fifteen, and twelve-year-old horses who have the fire of a two-year-old. Never consider buying a first horse until after riding him several times.
Purpose of a First Horse
The next consideration when buying a first horse is to consider the purpose for which the animal will be used. Pasture horse? Performance horse? Show pony? Trail riding? This will have an enormous impact on purchasing starter horses, particularly if the animal will be used for competition.
An amateur rider buying a first horse to show, for example, should look for an animal with at least two years of competition experience. The horse should be comfortable with crowds and willing to please in the show ring. When looking for a trail horse, on the other hand, ideal qualities include responsiveness to commands and stoicism in the face of loud noises and sudden movement.
Health of a First Horse
It is never a good idea to try buying a first horse without first having him examined by a veterinarian. His X-rays should come out clean, his digestive tract should be free of parasites, his hooves and teeth should be healthy, and he should come with a clean Coggins. Purchasing a starter horse without a vet check is the worst mistake a rider can make.
Trying Him Out
The best way to go about purchasing a starter horse is to try the horse for several days before buying him. Most sellers will agree to a conditional sale pending a trial run at the buyer's property or stable. Ride the horse every day, spend time with him in his stall, tack him up, give him a bath, clip his whiskers—all of the things he will need to do after purchase.
This will also protect the buyer in the case of illegal drugging. If the seller has drugged the horse to make him calmer or more rational, a week or so will give the drugs time to work their way out of the horse's system. This is the safest way to buy a first horse, and if the seller won't agree, find another prospect.
Buying a first horse can be stressful, but take it slow. Make out a checklist of questions to ask owners as you visit different prospects, then evaluate the answers at home with a spouse or trainer. Request videos of horses in another state or country, but it is usually best to purchase starter horses close to home.
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