Buying A Horse

Look for an older horse.
But remember that just because a horse is older, it doesn't necessarily mean it will be a good beginner or child's horse/pony. A beginners horse needs to have a loving disposition, he needs to take his job seriously and take good care of his rider.
Look for a horse with experience. "Lots of miles and a good attitude".
No Foot, No Horse.
Make sure the horse has healthy, well conformed hooves. Conformation is important, educate yourself.
Do not buy a stallion. Stallions are for breeding, not for beginners.
Always know who you are buying from. Check references. Deal only with sellers of good reputation.
If you attend an auction ....
Buyer Beware! Horses could be drugged or sedated. What seemed like a wonderful pony, could be an entirely different animal two days later.
Observe the horse/pony with others.
Watch him being groomed, watch his reactions when being saddled and readied to ride. Is this horse comfortable and happy? WATCH HIS BODY LANGUAGE. If you are unfamiliar with a horses body language, make sure you have someone with you who is familiar and can help you. Does he stand tied quietly? Does he stand nicely to be bridled and mounted? Does he wait for his queues? Does he allow his feet to be picked up and cleaned? Is he calm or is he spooky? These are all things that need to be observed.
Size matters
Most children begin riding ponies. Ponies are typically classified as being between 10 hands and 14.2 hands tall at the wither. Horses are classified as anything larger than 14.2 hands tall. Because ponies are smaller and more compact, they are much easier for children to manage. It's also a lot less distance to the ground if an unplanned dismount should occur. So often I see beginner adults buying horses that are too large for them.. Someone who is 5' 2 inches tall doesn't need to begin trying to ride a 16 hand horse. Find a horse that fits you properly, that is comfortable for you to sit on, that your leg fits properly.
Ask Questions
Don't be afraid to ask questions. Ask about the horses health, past experiences and housing preferences. Some horses aren't comfortable in stalls, you need to know this if your facility uses stalls. Some horses get along with every horse in the pasture, and others don't, you'll need to know this if your horse is to be kept with other horses. Does the horse have any vices (bad habits)? Is the horse a cribber? Some barns will not accept horses that crib or have certain vices. Has the horse had any previous injuries that could affect its future performance? (a vet check at the purchaser's expense can answer this question if necessary) If a seller doesn't want to answer your questions, you don't want to buy a horse from them.

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