Horse Appraiser
Do I Need an Appraiser?
There are many experts that can help you find the perfect horse, including trainers, breeders, show professionals, veterinarians, etc. However, many people are unfamiliar with the services of equine appraisers.
Equine appraisals may be used for many reasons, such as:
- Insurance
- Partnerships
- Estate Plans
- Accounting
- Bankruptcies
- Divorce
- Litigation
- Taxes
An equine appraisal will establish current market value for a particular animal. Current market value is defined as the highest price that an informed buyer would pay on any given day when neither buyer nor seller is compelled to buy or sell, when the horse is being sold in the appropriate market and both parties are knowledgeable about the market.
A buyer may find an equine appraiser useful in determining the value of a particular horse, negotiating the sale price and the contract.
While there are many types of equine appraisals, the most common format is a Summary Appraisal. The report will contain a full description of the horse, including photos, the purpose of the appraisal, a definition of the market value including assumptions and limiting conditions, an examination report, conformation and gait analysis, copy of registration and pedigree and the appraiser’s opinion of value.
If you decide to use an appraiser you should select one that is certified by the American Society of Equine Appraisers (ASEA) and who follows the Uniform Standards for Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP.) The appraiser should have extensive experience in the horse industry so that the client feels confident the appraiser can provide a totally unbiased evaluation of the animal.
Experience with things such as showing, judging, auctions, sales, breeding, and training is important. The more recent the appraisers experience and the more breeds an appraiser is familiar with the better. Don’t hesitate to ask for references.
The money invested in an appraisal will help in negotiating a fair purchase price and the appraisal can also be used to purchase insurance on the horse.
For a list of appraisers in your local area, please contact the American Society of Equine Appraisers via email or telephone at the following link: http://www.equineappraiser.com/
