How Do You Buy Cars From Private Sellers?
Buying a car is a major decision. You can usually get a better deal by buying from a private seller instead of a dealer. When you buy from a private individual you need to know what you are doing to ensure that you get a good deal and that the transaction is handled properly. Inspect the car thoroughly. Most dealers run their cars through an inspection process. Since you’re not using a dealer, you need to do your due diligence. Take the car for a test drive, check fluid levels, listen for strange noises, and inspect for body damage. It’s wise to take the car to a mechanic for an inspection. Negotiate the deal. Use websites such as www.kbb.com and www.nada.com to determine the car’s approximate value. Also, use www.carfax.com to check the history of the car. Many sellers are flexible on price to some degree. Coming to the deal with financing arranged (preferably cashier’s check) can help the deal go through more quickly and at a lower price. Do not use cash because it is not traceable a
