(sigh) HATE selling ... really hate dealing w/buyers

[Candi]

Wow Candi I did not realize you hosted such clinics. Please make sure and post when you do these things

I sent your information on your judges cards to a few people around here as well

And remember I'm trying to SCALE back the judging for 2011... with showing 4 circuits this year - I'll be lucky to know my own name - let alone anything else! LOL

 

[Candi]

I LOVE dealing with buyers! Send them my way!

I'm sure each of you were buyers at one time. Sure there are problems that arise, but that goes with the business.

LOL - trust me representing a stable full-o-clients - we're ALWAYS buyers. Last purchase was a $12K WP gelding - and let me tell ya - you're PICKY when spending $12K! TBO though NO AMOUNT OF $ is worth dealing with some of these folks. It's a business - and we all have the RIGHT TO REFUSE...

 

[Candi]

At the end of the day, you do not have to sell to anyone, and, over the years, I have learned to say "No", as politely as I can. This always causes offence, however nicely you word it, so I wear a thick jacket and hunch my shoulders and go for it!

There is no rhyme or reason to a potential buyer, we are all strangers to start with and we are as diverse as the human race. There are really, really good, poor people, who you know will go without something to make sure an animal gets vet care, there are poor people who believe the world owes them a living.

Some rich people are really very nice!!

But, at the end of the day, it is up to the seller to say "Yes" or "No", it is their animal right up to the point where the money is handed over, and there is no obligation to sell.

Buyers just need to be gently reminded of this, sometimes. I will not hang on for a buyer, now.

LMAO- oh I did "remind them" - though how "gently" I'm not sure. Especially given they hang themselves out there are PROFESSIONALS. I get crappy buyers all the time - esp since we dropped the price - but a crappy "professional" is another matter. I did get a sheepish apology email back in return...day/late in my opinion. They ruined their rep with a large stable and it's clientele - our area's not THAT big.

 

[Genie]

We looked at a miniature on one occassion and the seller said "this is the price today".

 

[hobbyhorse23]

Accidentally posted, nevermind.

 

[~Lisa~]

Here too - I'll take the overflow Songcatcher! LOL We've had similar things happen here - but as you said - its the business with anything you sell. I've also seen ads that say "no tire kickers" but its no different than shopping for a new car or a new dress for that special function.

I have nothing for sale but I agree that I HATE SERIOUS ONLY or something like that.. how on earth do I know I am serious about a large purchase from one picture and few words you wrote I have never once inquired on a ad like that.

To me it simply says I do not want to waste time on a buyer just give me the money and leave. It might not mean that but it is sure how it sounds to me

As far as newbies ect well lets be honest online anyone can claim to be anything so ones perception of their abilities does not always mean much to me be it they feel they are experienced or even those who feel they are not and are more so then they know

Any professional dealing in this business (which to me means selling any horse be it one or 1000) should realize it is part of the buisness. We all have had some bad experiences but as a professional we need to remember that griping about it and putting others down (online for the world including that person to see) is in my opinion one of the most unprofessional things you can do. A total turn off to those new buyers who might now be afraid to ask you the wrong question or appear silly and then come read about themselves. Most people I have talked to over the years clearly remember those that practice this way.

Talking in general terms is one thing but giving a specific instance is a different ballgame all together IMO

But that is just my opinion and we all have them

Candi clinics are great but remember you have some of the top mini/pony trainers around there in the North West do not discount the amazing talent you have available to you right there in your own backyard and they are all very willing to share their knowledge with you to help you become aquainted to the mini world

 

[Ashley]

I have nothing for sale but I agree that I HATE SERIOUS ONLY or something like that.. how on earth do I know I am serious about a large purchase from one picture and few words you wrote I have never once inquired on a ad like that.

To me it simply says I do not want to waste time on a buyer just give me the money and leave. It might not mean that but it is sure how it sounds to me

As far as newbies ect well lets be honest online anyone can claim to be anything so ones perception of their abilities does not always mean much to me be it they feel they are experienced or even those who feel they are not and are more so then they know

Any professional dealing in this business (which to me means selling any horse be it one or 1000) should realize it is part of the buisness. We all have had some bad experiences but as a professional we need to remember that griping about it and putting others down (online for the world including that person to see) is in my opinion one of the most unprofessional things you can do. A total turn off to those new buyers who might now be afraid to ask you the wrong question or appear silly and then come read about themselves. Most people I have talked to over the years clearly remember those that practice this way.

Talking in general terms is one thing but giving a specific instance is a different ballgame all together IMO

But that is just my opinion and we all have them

Candi clinics are great but remember you have some of the top mini/pony trainers around there in the North West do not discount the amazing talent you have available to you right there in your own backyard and they are all very willing to share their knowledge with you to help you become aquainted to the mini world

I couldnt agree with this post more! This whole post sheds light on to several people, and I (if I was looking to shop or for help) would not contact several that have posted on this topic.

 

[albahurst]

Here too - I'll take the overflow Songcatcher! LOL We've had similar things happen here - but as you said - its the business with anything you sell. I've also seen ads that say "no tire kickers" but its no different than shopping for a new car or a new dress for that special function. You have to compare and in order to compare you have to ask questions, see photos, etc to decide. I don't mind doing this for others and those I've asked from don't seem to mind either. When buying over the internet sight unseen, its difficult for anyone to make a decision considering the amount of money at hand - not just for the horse but the shipping also.

As a seller, I ask potential buyers to let me know either way - no hard feelings but please offer me the courtesy if they change their mind. Be nice always because not only will they likely return again later, but they will definitely be talking to others about their experience with you - all about reputation.

As a buyer, I do try to go back and let them know I've purchased elsewhere or that we haven't purchased at all and are still looking and comparing and considering theirs. I just did that a week ago with three or four farms when we finally decided on the new stallion. And when shopping again, we will definitely return to these same farms to look again because they were all very nice and understanding.

With that said, if I missed anyone in my courtesy email .... my apologies - but try not to leave folks hanging because its no fun when I'm on the other end of it myself.

I have a colt marked sale pending now that has to be removed and market again. Been holding 3 weeks, checked in with them just before Christmas and all was a go - excited, busy with holidays, still interested, etc. Yesterday I get an email that it's not going to happen afterall. Admittedly I marked him sale pending prematurely but the phone calls and emails were constant multiple times per day - such excitement from them - big plans from them - very convincing so I took a chance. Lesson learned but then nobody was beating down the door asking if the pending sale fell through, they would like to have him. LOL I sincerely wished the people well and hope that they return to us again for their most important purchase. It does not sour me on future potential buyers as it is the business with anything you sell and anytime you deal with the public.

 

[Kendra]

I HATE SERIOUS ONLY or something like that.. how on earth do I know I am serious about a large purchase from one picture and few words you wrote I have never once inquired on a ad like that.

Me too! Saw an ad recently, reasonably local, would've liked more information, but the ad said "serious inquiries only" and I had no idea if I was serious or not. There wasn't even a photo with the ad, how on earth would anyone know if they were serious when they hadn't even seen a photo of the horse?

I always put "All inquiries welcome!" ... a casual email might turn into a sale, if not on this horse, then maybe on another down the road. A lady once told me how she'd contacted a breeder in her area shortly after she got her first horses, to ask about local vets and farriers that were good with Miniature Horses. She was told, "I give excellent support to people who buy my horses." Basically, I'm not helping you out unless you buy a horse from me. Talk about burning bridges.

We got a phone call one day from a lady looking for an under 30" stallion. Not something we have, so we gave her the names of a couple breeders closer to her who might have what she was looking for. She said she couldn't believe we would be so helpful to someone who wasn't buying a horse from us. But I bet if she's ever looking for a driving prospect, she'll remember us! And if she never is, well, so what, we were glad to help her out.

I'm not saying we haven't had our share of headaches ... the people who never showed up after we caught the colts and waited outside all afternoon come to mind ... but that's not going to stop me from including "All inquiries welcome!" at the bottom of my ads!

 

[kaykay]

The thing is the Miniature Horse community is actually very small and it is very easy to offend an entire community with just a few clicks of a computer.

Candi I am in no way trying to be "mean" to you but your posts come off awfully strong and very opinionated for someone newer (I am not sure how long you have shown and owned Miniature Horses but I get the feeling you are newer?) to this community. Sometimes its wise to lurk a bit and get to know the community you are joining.

I guess if you have a steady stream of buyers it doesnt matter, but by posting this thread you probably turned off a lot of potential customers. They may simply avoid you now worried that they could be the next buyer you bash on the largest Miniature Horse forum in existence.

To maintain a professional image; its just not good to bash buyers and other trainers. Private business dealings should always remain private.

I have spent many hours with new and experienced buyers. Some buy, some dont. That is the nature of the business. I would rather have a buyer decline then have them paired with the wrong horse.

I have had times when I spent weeks with a potential customer only to have them buy elsewhere. But then they came back the next year and bought from us. And even if they dont, hopefully they left having a good feel of what our farm is about and had a good experience while they were here.

Kay

 

[Candi]

I have nothing for sale but I agree that I HATE SERIOUS ONLY or something like that.. how on earth do I know I am serious about a large purchase from one picture and few words you wrote I have never once inquired on a ad like that.

To me it simply says I do not want to waste time on a buyer just give me the money and leave. It might not mean that but it is sure how it sounds to me

As far as newbies ect well lets be honest online anyone can claim to be anything so ones perception of their abilities does not always mean much to me be it they feel they are experienced or even those who feel they are not and are more so then they know

Any professional dealing in this business (which to me means selling any horse be it one or 1000) should realize it is part of the buisness. We all have had some bad experiences but as a professional we need to remember that griping about it and putting others down (online for the world including that person to see) is in my opinion one of the most unprofessional things you can do. A total turn off to those new buyers who might now be afraid to ask you the wrong question or appear silly and then come read about themselves. Most people I have talked to over the years clearly remember those that practice this way.

Talking in general terms is one thing but giving a specific instance is a different ballgame all together IMO

But that is just my opinion and we all have them

Candi clinics are great but remember you have some of the top mini/pony trainers around there in the North West do not discount the amazing talent you have available to you right there in your own backyard and they are all very willing to share their knowledge with you to help you become aquainted to the mini world

In this case - I'd be "more-than-ok" if the individuals in question found this website to "see" my comments - even though I did not/will not name names - would be wonderful. Not only might they learn something (actual) but realize that as professed "professionals" in the horse world - they'll get called on their BS.

I love newbies - their enthusiasm - general eagerness to learn - etc... Do they sometimes take more effort - sure - but I think well worth it!

Oh I am well-aware of who we have (some almost throwing distance away) but as other trainers can attest to - many are VERY THREATENED when approached by another trainer for information, etc. We're not in this for backyard fun. We purchased national-quality horses - from nationally-recognized bloodlines - with national potential. The local trainers have to realize and accept that when another trainer (that is also a judge) asks for information - they will 99% not remain their client - but move on with their own program. I have seen it cause issues in many horse and dog worlds - and would like to NOT deal with the drama - thus bringing in someone from OUTSIDE the area will not cause the same conflicts. Have seen the 2 "big" mini and pony trainers at the same shows (mult times) and they can't be at the same shows with each other without negative comments, etc - too much drive "fight" over the same clients.

Same reasons why in the WP or Dressage worlds you don't have X trainer from down the road do a clinic at your facility - you bring in someone from Y states away - less professional conflicts.

 

[Candi]

I'm not saying we haven't had our share of headaches ... the people who never showed up after we caught the colts and waited outside all afternoon come to mind ... but that's not going to stop me from including "All inquiries welcome!" at the bottom of my ads!

The only time we limit "buyers" is when we have something "in mind" for a prospective horse - WP, Dressage, etc. Or, if a health condition means riding/competing at a certain level/sport.

We've used: "Show Homes Only" - "Low Hunter/Dressage Homes Only" - "4H/Pony Club Encouraged to inquire" etc...

While I can't remember doing it - don't think I've ever said "Serious Inquiries Only" while I'm NOT turned off by that- as I wouldn't be looking if I weren't serious for myself or a client - I'm not sure I'd use it.

 

[Candi]

I couldnt agree with this post more! This whole post sheds light on to several people, and I (if I was looking to shop or for help) would not contact several that have posted on this topic.

While I'm sure you meant this negatively - I'll take it a different way. There are trainers, stables, sellers and buyers for everyone. Each have different needs and desires... I just look at it that you've simply "refined" what type of owner and buyer you are - and this thread isn't it.

 

[Ashley]

While I'm sure you meant this negatively - I'll take it a different way. There are trainers, stables, sellers and buyers for everyone. Each have different needs and desires... I just look at it that you've simply "refined" what type of owner and buyer you are - and this thread isn't it.

As for what I am, I have pretty much sold out of my minis with only 1 left to find a home for. I have a couple older big horses that I took into live out their days after somebody dumped them when they were no longer any use to them. MY 20 month old daughter finds lots of use in them, as do I.

I ment it in the fact that some of the people who posted on here I would never buy from. I dont like the stuck up better than attitude in some people. I also dont like those that feel that they have more knowledge then some when they dont even know them. Just me tho, I dont think of myself as better than anybody and I like to give everybody a fair chance. When I was breeding and raising foals I didnt judge just because somebody wanted a pet, and I wouldnt refuse to sell a show quality horse to a pet home.

 

[Minimor]

I for one am a bit puzzled--you labelled these buyers as ignoramouses (is that the correct plural form of that word? Anyway, you know what I mean!

) but was that simply because they don't do quarantine of new horses? (I know plenty who don't, for one reason or another; in fact, I don't, simply because the way this place is set up it is not physically possible to quarantine a new horse. My alternatives are 1) never buy a new horse or take any of mine to a show or 2) buy & show & don't do quarantine.) So, I guess you would call me an ignoramous?

No vaccines--that doesn't float my boat at all, we do vaccinate for certain things--but I know quite a number of people that don't vaccinate, for different reasons. Some of them are simply too cheap to bother with it, others have specific reasons that they believe in. Some of those are professional trainers, good ones, that are very knowledgeable about horses. I wouldn't call them ignorant for their decision not to vaccinate their horses.

I have little use for Parelli and just as little use for barefoot trimmers, but for me belief in one or both doesn't cause me to label a person as an ignoramous.

And if someone found it weird that you wanted them to meet you at some other location so they could see the colt in an indoor arena rather than out in the snow, well, that's not so weird. I can see where someone might think a seller has something to hide when the seller doesn't want the buyer to come to their barn. Some buyers might like to see the colt's dam as well as the colt himself--and they may wonder why you don't want them to see anything except that one particular colt...it would make sense if it were a horse they were going to be trying under saddle, then the indoor arena would make good sense, but a yearling colt? As a buyer in cold, snowy country I would see nothing wrong with viewing a horse outside in the snow--it's the norm around here!!. As a buyer I would feel like I were putting a seller to a lot of trouble, having to haul their colt to an arena so I could see him--I'd feel more pressured to buy, because if the seller goes to that trouble he/she will possibly be ticked off if no sale is made.

As a seller I'm most concerned with whether the potential buyer has safe facilities for the horse, if they know how to care for it, if they WILL care for it properly, providing it with decent shelter, sufficient feed (and good quality feed at that). I would absolutely HATE to find out that a horse I sold to someone was starved to death by that person....if the worst done to the horse is teaching it the Parelli games and having it trimmed by a barefoot trimmer (as long as it's not the extreme crippling trim that some have been known to do--they don't all trim that way!) well, life isn't so bad!!

 

[minih]

The thing is the Miniature Horse community is actually very small and it is very easy to offend an entire community with just a few clicks of a computer.
Candi I am in no way trying to be "mean" to you but your posts come off awfully strong and very opinionated for someone newer (I am not sure how long you have shown and owned Miniature Horses but I get the feeling you are newer?) to this community. Sometimes its wise to lurk a bit and get to know the community you are joining.

I guess if you have a steady stream of buyers it doesnt matter, but by posting this thread you probably turned off a lot of potential customers. They may simply avoid you now worried that they could be the next buyer you bash on the largest Miniature Horse forum in existence.

To maintain a professional image; its just not good to bash buyers and other trainers. Private business dealings should always remain private.

I have spent many hours with new and experienced buyers. Some buy, some dont. That is the nature of the business. I would rather have a buyer decline then have them paired with the wrong horse.

I have had times when I spent weeks with a potential customer only to have them buy elsewhere. But then they came back the next year and bought from us. And even if they dont, hopefully they left having a good feel of what our farm is about and had a good experience while they were here.

I agree with everything Kay had to say. We were newbies in 1998, and asked some dumb questions I'm sure (still do

), but were never made to feel that way. Even to this day when I am looking to buy a horse and have questions I will bug the seller to death until I am satisfied. It is my money.....