Price:

Pricing your horse or item within an appropriate range makes a big difference in getting sales.  Over-pricing will be seen through in a flash by experienced buyers, and under-pricing may raise concerns about why the horse or item is priced so cheaply. Under-pricing may also result in more 'looky-loos' wasting your time with low-ball offers.  The best approach is to search for ads that are similar to yours, see how they're priced, then price your own offering somewhere in the middle of that range.  If you want to move something quickly, stating a reduced price and explaining why the price is lower will be more apt to generate calls and emails.

It's a good idea to look at your competition when determining price.  If there are many similar horses or items available at the same time or in the same region where you're selling, a price reduction may make your ad stand out from the rest.  Having said that, whether or not to draw attention to a reduced price seems to be a matter of debate.  We'd love to hear your opinions - email us at info@bayequest.com. Some see it as an indication that the ad had an inflated price to begin with, and others see it as a way to draw attention to a bargain, especially in a difficult market.  "Price negotiable" seems to generate a similar diversity of opinion.  On the one hand, being open to negotiation may maximize contacts coming from the ad, on the other hand it may invite less-than-serious inquiries.

Barter/Trade

BAEN gives you the option of a Barter check box on your ad submission form. Checking this box puts the words "Will barter" into your ad text, showing buyers you're willing to barter, or trade, for horses, items, and/or services.  Buyers can search for "Will barter" ads on our advanced search form. In a tight economy, barter gives you flexibility to structure a successful sale for full barter or part barter/part cash. Either way, both parties get something they want. For best results, briefly list what you will accept for barter in your ad's description. Example: "Will barter for AQHA gelding, western tack, horse trailer, hay, lessons."