Saddles Direct

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confirmedponyaddict

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I hope this is allowed, I'm facing a dilema. I've had no luck trying to sell my Bates saddle on facebook, gumtree, a few others which is a shame as its a nice saddle and I need the cash! Saddles direct have offered me a comission quote but have said I'll get more money selling it in their classifieds section, I don't want to pay to advertise and then find it doesn't sell. Has anyone else sold through SD, did it take long? Do people actually shop in their classified section or just on the main pages?
 
I was trying to sell a similar saddle, brand new used 3 times Bates top of the line GP that retailed at about £2000? They would only offer £500 and suggested selling on classifieds on their site. It was there for a very long time, had to pay £10 and didn't get a single response - So I decided to go on eBay instead - managed to get about £1500 for it - so really, I wouldn't bother with the classifieds myself, just wasn't worth it in the end.
 
I'd recommend 'The Saddle Bank'. They do work on commission but I have both bought and sold saddles with them and they have always been efficient and kept me updated regularly. Takes all the hassle out of selling a saddle.
 
Try Sheepham Saddles based in Devon, no idea where you are but bought my two Bates no quibble, yes prices were lower than if you sold private but the cash was in my hand.

Or I think they also sell on a commission base, not sure on percentage though.
 
I contacted Saddles Direct about a saddle I had to sell. I felt it was worth at least £500.

They gave me three options - they would buy it off me for £300, advertise it on commission for £600 and take 40% so I'd end up with £360 or charge me for their classifieds, which weren't cheap. I wasn't in a rush so kept hold of it and sold it a few weeks later through word of mouth for the £500 I wanted. I appreciate they have to make a living but felt their margins were way too high.

If you need a quick sale I'd do one of the first two. If you don't, I wouldn't bother with their classifieds. You'll find as big an audience on local facebook groups or with an ad in your local tack shop etc. The only time I'd consider a classified ad is if it's something very unusual that won't necessarily have a ready market.
 
Thanks guys, that has confirmed my suspicions. Think I will hang on to it for a bit, I do need the cash but it may as well sit in my storage container than in one at SD!
 
I wouldn't bother with any of the commercial middlemen, be it sheepham, saddles direct or saddle bank

It's very bl**dy hard to buy from them so I don't fancy your chances of getting a sale

Just keep trying on Facebook and eBay and offer to let folks local try on their horse for petrol money
 
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