After months of indecision GD has finally gone to try out living with her mother. It seems to be going OK, so the time has come to part with her pony. I've found nice, experienced people who like the pony a lot, who are very much on the same wave length as me (and the girl rides well enough to do it) about how she needs bringing on now and GD took to them and we can keep in touch.
They'd like her on loan with view to buy in the Spring if they're in a position to, and if GD is still with her mother (initially just wanted loan but they've spotted her potential). They've offered references for the girl she's for from the riding school where she works (excellent school, it's where GD started and I know the owners), we will visit the mother and her horses at their yard, and will do a BHS loan agreement. They also understand that I need to get to know them reasonably well before she moves, and that we'll want to visit.
I really just want you all to reassure me that this sounds like it could work out, and also to get some practical views. Should we agree the price for potential purchase now, or leave it till we decide whether to sell? If they are as good as they seem then they will add value to the pony: if she comes back I'd be prepared to split the profit but if they want her I think we should sell at what she's worth now.
Any advice?