I do not have the experience of many of the posters here, but here are my thoughts and opinions. If you do not want to add the risk of a foaling, but you really like the mare, then maybe you could negotiate to take delivery of the mare after the foaling. Of course the price would go up, but the stress of foaling a mare out would not be on you. I am an emotional person too in that I get so attached and do not want anything to happen to my horses, but I LOVE the foaling. I have had 4 foals here and I love the experience and the foals! They are so precious!
One of the foals and maybe even my mare might not have made it if I had not been there to assist. I would have been devastated! If you are going to take on the responsibility of a bred mare or breeding, you are going to spend a lot of time at home and have a lot of sleepless nights. All the time and effort are worth it to me because I love my horses so much. They bring me a lot of joy. You just have to decide if you want to make that kind of commitment.
If you do decide you want to go through the emotional roller coaster of foaling (
) , I would personally suggest starting out with an older mare (bought from an honest, responsible breeder), who has a history of foaling with no problem and who is bred to a smaller refined stud. Have the breeder tell you everything about her foaling experiences - all her signs and behaviors and then watch her like a hawk when it comes time. Make sure you educate yourself well on foaling and if you could find an experienced friend nearby, that would sure help, too!
Let us know what you decide!