Buying From a Private Seller

You can buy from a private seller (usually cash or cheque) which is much cheaper than from a dealer but it is also a lot riskier due to the possibility of the car actually being stolen. If the car is stolen, you run the risk of loosing both the car and your money.

There are also smaller amount of legal rights with the private seller than with a car dealer.

When buying from a private seller it is important that you are extra careful / vigilant and watch out for the following:

Ad's which have mobile numbers for "contact number" and naming specific times to call. If the same number appears on several ad's you might need to ask yourself "could this be suspicious? Why would somebody single handily be selling more than one car?"

When having any suspicions about a car, it is a wise idea to contact companies which have records of vehicles. They may be able to tell you if the car has been reported stolen, been in any kind of accident or if the car is still on finance with a company.

If you do ring the number and they ask which car? Then you should be suspicious as to whether the car you want to buy is actually stolen. Make sure you see the car in broad daylight so everything is visible. Extra precautions should always be taken when answering an ad after all this could be "anyone". Don't forget to ask lots of questions, especially their ID to make sure they are who they say they are.

Buying from a private seller or dealer, take a test drive - see what the car drives like. Is it comfy? Is it smooth? Taking someone with you can help you feel confident when making a decision.

Trade-Ins

Many car dealers offer a trade in scheme whereby you trade in your old car to the dealer and they give you cash for it to put towards the new one you're intending to buy. Do be warned that although it sounds great they may offer less discount and possibly a more expensive finance deal on your new car to make up their profit - this doesn't apply to all cases.

Keep in mind you could sell your old car privately and possibly make you more money than trading it in. Again do your research, find the best deal for you!

Buying Cars From an Auction

Buying cars from an auction can be the riskiest way of buying a car, however you can get a great bargain if you pick wisely.

When going to auctions legal rights may not apply if the seller issues a "disclaimer" such as "sold as seen". Always take someone experienced to look over the car, you don't want to take it home and be stuck with a car that doesn't work, or even worse one that is dangerous - not road worthy.

Be safe, secure and not sorry!

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Buying From a Private Seller

Trade-Ins

Buying Cars From an Auction

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