Thistle Ridge

Want to sell your horse? Then write a 'knock out' classified. Writing a great classified will give potential buyers information on your horse so it is up to the advertisement to market your horse properly.

Give prospective buyers as much information as possible to help them with their decision. Buyers usually whittle down adverts based on the breed, size, age and type of horse. All these things should be readily listed and easily seen. Serious buyers know what they want and including this information will help the prospective buyer make a quicker decision.

• Including a Photograph will increase the number of people who look at the ad. The old saying goes "a picture is worth a thousand words". Just glance through a see of word advertisements, Incorporating a photograph catches your attention and slows down your eye from moving on. A picture will entice people to read the advertisement. Even a 'head shot' of your horse is better than nothing.
• A full body photo identifying, markings, desirable breed characteristics, or movement is a big plus. Action shots showing a floating trot or form over a fence is a big plus. Performance horse photos such as reining, team penning, pleasure or endurance will draw the interest of people looking for that type of horse.
• Saying in your ad, 'pictures available on request' is fine but this is just another step that prospective buys do not want to do. 'Additional pictures' or 'video available' is a better option.
• Get and keep additional pictures handy for inquiries.

• Including the Price will weed out people. This will weed out the 'tire kickers' that waster your time. A "Multiple Champion Winner" and "In the ribbons" description will justify the price listed.
• A less expensive horse will still draw a lot of interest and may be of interest to those people looking in a higher bracket. Do not be afraid to include the price.

• Including the Location draw people in the area and then be prepared to be asked if you are willing to cover shipping costs to the new owner.

• Including a Knockout Title will attract attention. If, for example, you have a 16hh bay mare for sale with show ring experience:
• For sale or lease - Experienced Show Ring Hunter, Ottawa,Ontario - 16hh, bay, mare, Champion Hunter for sale or lease -May attract people looking for a show horse as opposed to:
• Warmblood mare, nice mover, good with farrier - Which may attract no people who want to show, but would attract people who want to breed. So write a great title to attract the right buyers to your horse.

It is not difficult to write a classified to attract buyers. Be specific, and direct your ad to attract people who are looking for that type of horse. And of course include your correct name and contact information.