What is EquiRatings, and what is its core philosophy for horse sales?

EquiRatings is revolutionizing horse sales through data-driven insights. We're changing the horse buying and selling world by relying on objective data rather than solely on traditional subjective evaluations.

Our core philosophy centers on providing buyers with three key elements:

• Clarity - Clear, objective performance data
• Confidence - Expert analysis and transparent information
• Control - Data-driven insights into performance, potential, and price

We believe that understanding the full market landscape through objective data and expert human analysis helps buyers make informed decisions, whether seeking a hidden gem or a medal contender.

How does EquiRatings use data to evaluate horse performance?

Our analysis draws from extensive performance data: over 8,000 FEI-level horses, 15+ years of analysis, and 40,000+ evaluated horses.

The cornerstone of our evaluation is the High Performance Rating (HPR) - a data-driven score that goes beyond simple placings by measuring:

• Strength of the competition field
• Difficulty of the course
• Performance across all phases
• Talent, consistency, and potential

The HPR is built upon our proprietary EquiRatings Elo metric, which rates horses relative to their peers based on international eventing results, revealing quality that might not be apparent from typical results sheets.

What are the "Three Factors" that influence horse-buying decisions?

Every horse-buying decision should consider three critical factors:

1. Performance: Proven, objective performance data from our extensive database (8,000+ FEI horses, 15+ years analysis, 40,000+ evaluated horses)
2. Potential: Expert video analysis by experienced five-star riders who assess what looks good on paper and determine horses worth further consideration
3. Price: Direct contact with riders/owners to determine realistic pricing, enabling value-driven comparisons between performance, potential, and cost

What are the two main service models for horse buyers?

We offer two distinct service models to match different buyer needs and budgets:

Horse Search Complete - Premium Full-Service

• Pricing: €5,000 upfront + 5% success fee
• Best for: Comprehensive buyers wanting full-service experience
• Includes: Goal definition, criteria setting, global search through 8,000+ FEI horses, price discovery, comprehensive presentation with performance comparisons, vetting and negotiation support
• Value advantage: Often cheaper than industry standard 10% commission (especially for horses over €100k)

Horse Search Lite - Traditional No-Risk Model

• Pricing: 7.5% commission (only on successful purchase)
• Best for: Buyers wanting flexibility without upfront costs
• Includes: Curated selection from our database meeting specific performance criteria
• Risk: "No purchase, no fee" basis

How does the Horse Search Complete service work step-by-step?

Our comprehensive 6-step process ensures thorough, professional service:

1. Outline Goals: Define objectives (Olympic levels, junior medal contender, etc.) to guide our performance weighting
2. Set Criteria: Specify preferences for age, gender, characteristics, and current competition level
3. Database Search: Filter 8,000+ FEI-level horses to create ~100 horse "draft" matching your criteria
4. Price Discovery: Direct outreach to owners/riders for availability and pricing information
5. Comprehensive Presentation: Receive detailed list with performance data, price comparisons, video links, and expert analysis
6. Purchase Support: Assistance with shortlisting, vetting process, and negotiation guidance

How does EquiRatings match horses to rider strengths and weaknesses?

We analyze rider statistics to find complementary horses. Our approach assesses your statistical strengths and weaknesses to identify horses that maximize partnership potential.

Real example: Sam Lissington excels in dressage (94th percentile - better than 94% of international riders from 2020-2024), so she sought horses with strong jumping statistics that she could develop on the flat.

This data-driven matching ensures the horse-rider partnership maximizes potential gains while accommodating individual riding styles and development areas.

How does EquiRatings address pricing transparency in horse sales?

We demystify horse sales by providing unprecedented transparency in areas traditionally considered taboo, especially pricing.

Our transparency approach includes:

• Direct contact with owners/riders for realistic price information
• Analysis of how performance impacts pricing
• Regional pricing insights (e.g., UK demand vs. remote locations)
• Cost-effective pricing models (5% vs. industry standard 10%)
• Clear, upfront fee structures with no hidden costs

We also specialize in finding quality horses with lesser-known riders and horses that specifically align with individual rider strengths, fostering more informed and confident buying decisions.

How is data-driven horse buying different from traditional methods?

Traditional vs. Data-Driven Comparison:

Traditional Method	EquiRatings Data-Driven
Gut feeling and subjective opinions	Objective performance data from 8,000+ FEI horses
Personal connections and networks	Transparent pricing and expert analysis
Guesswork about performance quality	Clear phase-by-phase performance metrics
Limited comparison ability	Direct peer comparisons and consistency data

Can EquiRatings help new horse buyers without extensive experience?

Absolutely - our service is especially valuable for newcomers. First-time buyers often lack extensive networks or horse evaluation experience, making our data-driven approach particularly beneficial.

How we support new buyers:

• Comprehensive guidance from goal definition to final purchase
• Structured approach removing uncertainty and intimidation
• Expert support through vetting and negotiation processes
• Objective data replacing need for extensive personal networks
• Educational approach helping you understand what makes a good horse

Do I need to understand statistics to benefit from your service?

No statistical knowledge required. We translate complex data into clear, actionable insights that anyone can understand.

How we make data accessible:

• Simple scoring: High Performance Rating (HPR) provides one clear quality score
• Plain English explanations: Our team explains what data means for your specific goals
• Visual presentations: Clear charts and comparisons, not raw statistics
• Expert interpretation: Benefit from sophisticated analysis without becoming a data scientist

How long does the horse search process typically take?

Timeline varies by criteria and horse availability:

• Horse Search Complete: Typically 4-8 weeks from initial consultation to shortlist presentation
• Purchase completion: Additional time for vetting, negotiation, and logistics
• Ongoing support: We guide you throughout the entire process

More specific criteria or rare requirements may extend timelines, while flexible criteria often produce faster results.

What happens if no suitable horse is found?

Our approach depends on your chosen service model:

• Horse Search Complete: With 8,000+ horses in our database, we work diligently to find suitable options. If truly no horses meet criteria or are available, we'll discuss adjusting criteria or timing
• Horse Search Lite: No financial risk - you only pay commission on successful purchase

Our extensive database and global network significantly increase success rates compared to traditional methods.

Do you work with buyers globally or only in specific regions?

We serve buyers worldwide. Our database includes horses globally, and we understand regional pricing and availability differences.

Global service capabilities:

• Buyers supported in UK, US, Europe, and beyond
• International horse database and sourcing
• Regional market knowledge and pricing insights
• Cross-border purchase process navigation
• Understanding of local regulations and logistics

Can you help find horses outside eventing disciplines?

Our expertise specializes in eventing where we have 15+ years of analysis and deep performance insights. Our current services are specifically designed for the eventing market where we can provide maximum value.

While our methodology could potentially apply to other disciplines, our database, analysis tools, and expert knowledge are optimized for eventing competition data and performance metrics.

What's the difference between HPR and traditional competition results?

Traditional results vs. High Performance Rating (HPR):

• Traditional results: Simple placings (1st, 5th, 20th) without context
• HPR analysis considers:
  • Competition field strength
  • Course difficulty levels
  • Performance across all phases
  • Relative peer performance

Example: A horse placing 10th in a strong international field might have a higher HPR than one winning a weak local competition. HPR reveals true quality that placement alone cannot show.

How accurate are your performance predictions?

Our predictions are based on extensive historical analysis: 15+ years of data from 40,000+ evaluated horses using our proven HPR system built on Elo rating methodology.

Accuracy considerations:

• Highly reliable for identifying talent and consistency patterns
• Cannot guarantee future performance (horses are athletes with variables)
• Combines statistical analysis with expert human assessment
• Proven track record of identifying quality before it becomes obvious

What data sources do you use beyond competition results?

Comprehensive data sources include:

• Primary data: FEI competition results analyzed through proprietary methods
• Expert analysis: Video review by experienced five-star riders
• Market intelligence: Direct outreach to owners/riders for pricing and availability
• Regional insights: Trend analysis and valuations across different markets
• Historical performance: Long-term tracking of career trajectories

How do your fees compare to traditional horse agents?

EquiRatings often provides significant cost savings:

Service	EquiRatings Fee	Traditional Agent	Savings Example (€150k horse)
Horse Search Complete	€5k + 5% success fee	10% commission	€10k savings
Horse Search Lite	7.5% commission	10% commission	€3.75k savings

Additional value: Data-driven insights and analysis not available through traditional agents.

What's included in the €5,000 upfront fee?

The upfront fee covers comprehensive professional service:

• Goal setting and criteria definition consultation
• Filtering and analysis of 8,000+ horse database
• Price discovery through direct seller outreach
• Expert video analysis by five-star riders
• Comprehensive presentation with performance comparisons
• Initial shortlisting support and guidance

Value proposition: Investment in thorough, professional service regardless of whether you ultimately purchase. This fee structure ensures dedicated attention to your search.

Are there additional costs beyond your stated fees?

No hidden costs in our service fees. Our pricing is completely transparent upfront.

Separate standard horse purchase expenses:

• Veterinary examinations and vetting
• Transportation and shipping costs
• Insurance coverage
• Legal and documentation fees

Our support: We help you understand and plan for these additional standard costs that apply regardless of how you find your horse.

Who are the five-star riders providing video analysis?

Our video analysis team consists of experienced five-star event riders who understand what makes horses successful at the highest competition levels.

Qualifications include:

• Successful competition at major international events
• Expertise in assessing movement, jumping technique, and overall potential
• Understanding of what qualities translate to higher-level success
• Experience training and developing multiple horses

While we maintain privacy for some riders, all analysts are professionals with proven track records at the sport's highest levels.

How do you verify the information sellers provide?

We maintain rigorous verification standards:

• Performance data: Cross-referenced against official FEI records for independent verification
• Other information: Verified through established sport relationships and direct communication
• Reputation management: Our business depends on accuracy, ensuring thorough verification processes
• Transparency: Clear communication about any limitations in available information

What if a horse doesn't perform as expected after purchase?

Horse performance involves multiple variables including rider compatibility, training programs, health factors, and circumstances.

Our approach:

• Data and analysis significantly improve success chances but cannot guarantee outcomes
• Ongoing support to understand partnership challenges
• Guidance on potential solutions and adjustments
• Focus on long-term relationships with successful outcomes

Commitment: We're invested in your success and provide support beyond the initial purchase to help optimize the horse-rider partnership.