A horse requires tremendous care and commitment, so be sure you're ready to meet the challenges before you buy one. 
 
Steps:  
1.   Check auctions, horse farms or classified ads in the newspaper for horses for sale. Talk to local veterinarians. Or call your humane officer, who will always know of an unwanted horse in need of a good home.  
  
2.   Become familiar with horses before you put any money down. Go to horse auctions, visit local horse barns, read books about horses or explore a few horse Web sites.  
  
3.   Get some expert advice. It is difficult to pick out a sound horse with a good temperament unless you have a great deal of experience in dealing with the animals.  
  
4.   Check to see that the horse you intend to buy does not have badly cracked or deformed hooves, a runny nose or runny eyes. Also make sure it does not appear lethargic.  
  
5.   Ask a horse veterinarian to examine the horse you've selected. This is the best way to ensure that you're buying a healthy horse.  
  
6.   Consider the rider's size. If the horse is for a child or a short woman, choose a shorter breed, such as a Paint or a smaller Arabian. If this horse will be ridden by a tall or athletic person, you might opt for a quarter horse.  
  
7.   Purchase a horse that's appropriate for the skill level of the rider. If you're a novice, don't buy a thoroughbred, a stallion or a skitterish, untrained horse. Warm-blooded breeds like thorughbreds are generally more high-strung, while cold-bloodeds are more docile. Neutered males (geldings) tend to be easier to train than females (mares).  
  
8.   Expect to pay $1,000 to $3,000 for an 8-year-old unregistered quarter horse. The cost for a horse will vary in different parts of the country and depending on whether the horse is trained or untrained.  
  
  
Tips:  
Think about your riding interests. If you want to spend most of your time walking and trotting, a Tennessee Walker offers a smooth, steady ride. If you want to barrel ride, consider a quarter horse. If you want to trail ride, consider a Morgan or Arabian. 

Tips:  
Have a vet check your horse before you buy! You don't want to be surprised later by a horse that will not stay sound. Also, insure your horse. For about $600 a year you get life insurance and major medical coverage on a horse worth $8,500. It's worth it. 
  

Choose a horse that fits.  When you buy a horse make sure that he fits your needs. If you plan on doing dressage, find a horse that has already excelled at this sport. If you plan on endurance riding or trail riding find a horse that is bombproof or isn't spooky to the last gun shot. It will count in the future if you get a horse that has already performed in the sport you're choosing, it will also prevent a lot of injuries and heartbreaks when it comes to selling that beautiful partner you chose for jumping when really the only fences he's seen is the one that keeps him in his pasture.