Buying & Importing from Europe

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happilyhacking

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Just after people's experiences about importing from the continent. Mainly warmblood types but not any one in particular.
I've imported a few from Ireland before so i have experience in that respect. However, id like to try something different and I really do like warmbloods. I'd like to look into importing one or two fairly straight forward youngsters who are talented but may not have made the grade wherever they might be! With the ability to affiliate but not necessarily a world beater. I'm wondering if it's worth my while importing these horses, how much do they generally go for in Holland/Germany/Belgium? I've been told I should find an agent, so welcome to any reccommendations/stories/tips/advice. Like anyone, I'd like a good deal, but if they're not going for somewhat less than those in the UK I will have to have a rethink of whether it's worthwhile. Is there anywhere in particular these horses are advertised or is it more word of mouth?
Thanks in advance!
 
Just to say German Horse Center - friend of a friend got one from them and liked them. The horses on their website are lovely, if you email them telling them what you are looking for - they schooled be able to help.
 
I've always preferred to import them. I've seen a lot going in this country at silly prices, so I generally prefer to go to the source and find what I like rather than pay a premium for something someone has already imported. But you're welcome to point me in the direction of well bred, reasonably priced youngsters being produced here!
 
I actually think the prices here are often more reasonable. When I was looking 18 months ago there was a good range of good quality young wbs around, I got my mare from a small stud in gloucestershire in the end. Are you looking for a jumper or a dressage horse?
 
magic104 said:
Why? Just there are some very good studs already breeding WB's here in the UK??
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Yes, there are some very good studs breeding warmbloods in the UK I agree. Unfortunately they tend to be expensive in comparison to continental prices. I am guessing that the europeans have the competitive advantage in that their horse industry, as I understand it, is viewed by their powers that be, as farming and therefore business rates etc are far lower. Ultimately the europeans can produce the product cheaper than the Brits.

It must be pretty sole destroying for breeders in this country when they struggle to sell their well bred youngstock for the cost of the stud fee let alone cover the costs to raise them.
 
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