That is a gorgeous mule @Machias! My grandpa used to raise appaloosa mules for packing and I've still got a soft spot for mules. They are hard to beat in the mountains!
To the OP, I agree 100% with the advice for an at-home trial. A seller that truly cares about their horse will have no problem making sure it goes to the right home. I've always given a 30 day full money back trial period when I've sold horses in the past. I also checked out the home the horse was going to, and wouldn't sell to just anybody.
Here is a starter list of questions from the AQHA website when you do find a horse you're interested in. Obviously you can add to or remove the questions that don't pertain to you. Good luck with the horse search and keep us updated!
Buying a Horse Checklist
When you first contact a seller about a horse he or she has for sale, you should be prepared with your questions. Here is a list of questions to get you started:
___ Is he registered and do you have the original registration certificate?
___ Is this a gelding, stallion or mare?
___ What condition is the horse in?
___ Does he have any health problems?
___ What is the horse’s personality like? Quiet and well-mannered, high-strung or “spirited” and likes to go?
___ What does the horse look like?
___ How tall is the horse?
___ How old is the horse?
___ What kind of training has he had?
___ Is he road safe?
___ What is the horse’s recent background? What has he been doing? Has he been out to pasture or has he been used in English, western, 4-H, ranch, trail riding, lessons, driving, roping, reining, cutting, racing, etc.?
___ What vices does he have, if any?
___ Does he load into a trailer? Does he stand tied?
___ Has the horse been stalled or is he a pasture horse?
___ Has he lived alone or with other horses?
___ If handled by a trader or trainer, who owned him before? How long did they own him? Why are they selling the horse? May I speak with the previous owner?
___ Does he have a current Coggins test? If not, are you willing to get the horse tested?
___ Do you have someone at your place who will tack up and ride the horse?
___ Do you have an enclosed arena or enclosed pasture where I can try out the horse? If not, are you willing to take the horse to a public arena, demonstrate riding him and allow me to ride him?
___ If I like the horse, will you hold him for a vet check for me?
___ What is the horse's vaccination and deworming history?