My husband and I have bought many horses from the BLS and have sold a few through them. First off really do your home work on the horse you are interested in. If possible try to visit the horse where it is housed. I know that can be hard because they come from all over. If the person selling is not wiling to let you come visit them be wary. Also don't be afraid to ask to ride the horse at the sale. Most sellers will allow you to do so. Just remember it is at your own risk. Watch the horse in his stall, when he is being rode in the large outdoor arena. We have bought some that I could not keep. I bought horses that were beyond my riding ability. We have bought around a dozen horses though BLS I had only one that seemed like he was very green or had an issue with a pain when rode. Be wary of any seller that tells you the horse is "bombproof" or a babysitter. Horses can be unpredictable. They are an animal. Also understand when you get the horse home give the horse time to adjust. He may have been on the same farm or ranch its whole life. Had the same herd mates and owners it's whole life as well. That is a lot to get used to at a new home. Always watch the owner do ground work with the horse before you buy him. If a horse does not know basic ground work you will be taking it to a trainer. Remember if a horse can not do it with you on the ground he will not be able to do it in the saddle. I know some people will tell you what ever they think you want to hear to sell that horse and get a good price for him. I can say I will not lie to any one interested in a horse I sell. No horse is perfect as is no rider. I ask the people looking at my horse who will be riding my horse that is being offered. That is key to fit the horse with the proper rider. I want to be assured the horse I sell is going to a person that will keep him for a long time. I Am not a horse trader and have had my horses for a long time and do not want them going from sale to sale. We are offering three horses only because our children are all grown and I have too many so I want them going a good place. My greatest fear is having my horse go to a kill buyer. If I feel he is going for a very low price I will not sell him and take the lose and take him back to our ranch. A killer buyer buys low and resells him for a profit. In the end take your time at the sale ask a lot of questions and get a good feel in your gut about the horse and the seller. I stay right with my horses to answer all question a potential buyer might have. I also leave my cell number on the rack in the event I have to leave the stall for a moment. I hope you find the horse you are looking for at BLS. Not all sellers are scammers and people do offer really nice horses. Good luck. P.S. I have bought from private sellers as well and got stung. Bought a horse and she was nightmare. I paid an awe full lot of money for a horse from a private buyer and he would not stand by his horse after I got him home and found out what I really bought.