Selling your horse is often not an easy decision. Whether it’s because your sporting ambitions have changed, you’re switching to a different discipline, or simply because it’s time for a new partnership – you want your horse to end up in good hands. But how do you make sure your advertisement stands out among the hundreds of others on Sporthorses.co.uk?

A good advertisement is more than just a list of features. It’s your chance to attract the right buyer: someone who is not only interested but also a good match for your horse. In this blog, we’ll give you 7 practical tips to optimize your ad – so your horse sells faster and better.

1. Strong First Impression: The Title

The title is the first thing potential buyers see. Avoid vague terms like “nice horse” or “beautiful animal.” Instead, opt for a clear, informative title that includes the breed, age, discipline, and maybe even the level.

Example:
Not: Sweet horse for sale
Yes: 5-year-old KWPN gelding – experienced jumper with show record

A good title sets expectations and grabs the attention of buyers who are searching with specific criteria. Since many filters on Sporthorses.nl are based on breed, age, and discipline, make sure to include these in your title.

     2. Complete, Honest Description

Buyers want to quickly form a picture of your horse. Provide a clear description that includes the following:

• Breed, age, height at the withers
• Gender
• Discipline (dressage, jumping, eventing, leisure)
• Training & experience (level, competitions, special notes)
• Character (e.g., willing to work, sensitive, calm-minded)
• Health (clinically/radiographically vetted, stable vices)
• Reason for sale

Be honest. If your horse is sensitive in new environments or has trouble loading into a trailer, say so. A buyer who knows what to expect will view your horse more realistically. Honesty helps prevent disappointment and unnecessary viewings.

3. Photos: Quality Over Quantity

Good photos make all the difference. Buyers scroll quickly through ads; a sharp, well-lit photo will make your horse stand out.

Keep these tips in mind:

• Take photos in daylight (no backlighting!)
• Make sure your horse is clean and well-groomed
• Use a neutral background
• Show your horse standing, in motion (trot/canter), and optionally under saddle

A set of 3 to 6 photos is enough. One strong canter photo is better than five blurry jumping shots.

4. Short, Powerful Video Works Wonders

More and more buyers on Sporthorses.nl filter for ads with video. A video gives a much better impression than photos alone.

Tips for a good sales video:

• Start by showing the horse in-hand (walk, trot)
• Then include footage under saddle (all gaits, optional exercises or jumps)
• Keep it short: 1 to 3 minutes is ideal
• Use a stable camera (preferably a tripod or phone with stabilization)

Add the video link to your ad (e.g., via YouTube or Vimeo). Give the video a clear title, like: “5-year-old KWPN mare – dressage level L2”

5. Price and Negotiation

Whenever possible, include a price or price range. This helps filter out unsuitable buyers and avoids unnecessary back-and-forth.

Not sure about the right price? Browse Sporthorses.nl for similar ads – age, breed, level, and experience all influence market value.

Be clear about your openness to negotiate. Use terms like:

• “Price negotiable for the right match”
• “Asking price: €12,500, excl. VAT”

Avoid using “on request” unless absolutely necessary – it can be off-putting.

6. Contact Information and Availability

Make sure your contact details are correct and state how you prefer to be contacted (phone, WhatsApp, email).

Also mention when you’re best reachable, for example: “Available by phone between 10:00 and 17:00.”

7. Make the Most of Sporthorses.co.uk

Sporthorses.co.uk is the platform where supply and demand in the horse world come together. Thanks to its wide reach and detailed filters, you increase your chances of a successful sale. Make sure your ad is complete, use videos, and consider a premium listing for even more visibility.

In Conclusion

Selling a horse isn’t something you do every day. It’s a serious decision – emotionally and practically. By investing time in creating a strong advertisement on Sporthorses.co.uk, you not only increase the chances of a quick sale, but also of finding the right match. Because in the end, that’s what it’s all about: your horse in the right hands.