Working Ranch April/May 2025

ranch horse STORY AND PHOTOS BY KATE LOOSE From Budget to Bid How to Secure the Right Horse at Auction

uying a horse at an auction can be an exciting experience, but it requires preparation, strategy, and a keen eye. If you’re new to the process or looking to refine your approach, here are some steps that walk you through the process to ensure a successful purchase.

most live auctions now offering an online bidding option. This expands the auction’s reach and allows buyers who can’t attend in person to still partici pate. Nick Bennett Auctioneer, owner of Western College of Auctioneering and Ascent Auction, emphasizes that many of the same principles apply to online auctions — do your research, understand the bidding process, and carefully follow payment terms. HAVE A PLAN Before you even set foot at the auc tion, determine your budget. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of bidding, so setting a firm spending limit ensures you don’t overspend. Factor in not just the purchase price but also potential transportation costs. Additionally, have a shortlist of horses in mind. If your top choice

Before attending an auction, decide what type of sale best suits your needs. There are the main types of horse auctions: BREEDER SALES These are annual auctions that are held directly by breeders and typically feature young stock and some saddle horses, all representing a specific bloodline and the breeder’s program. Buyers at these sales often consider their purchase an investment into a particular bloodline to enhance their own breeding program. COLLECTIVE AND ESTABLISHED SALES These auctions feature vetted con signors who may offer horses from their training program.

These horses can either be started or finished in their training. These con signors have established reputations, providing buyers with assurance regarding quality and training. GENERAL HORSE SALES Open to any consignors, these sales can include high-quality horses and loose horses that may be headed to slaughter. While great deals can be found, buyers should be prepared to do thorough research and accept potential risks. ONLINE AUCTIONS Purchasing a horse online has become increasingly common, with

76 I APRIL / MAY 2025 WORKING RANCH audited readers run 21 million head of beef cattle.