How to Buy a Used Car From Private Party

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By Jin Li
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buy a used car

When you buy a used car from a private party (an individual) as opposed to a dealer, there are things that you should do to protect yourself. It can be a lot cheaper if you buy from an individual because he will have to sell it at a cheaper price than a dealer. This article talks about how to buy a used car from an individual.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

computer
internet connection
phone
a good friend that is an expert in cars

Step 1

When you decide to buy a used car from a private party, you will need to know where to look to find one. www.craiglist.com is a great place to look for a used car at a location close to your residence. You can also buy used car from your friends (those that ARE actually your friends).
Step 2

When you see a vehicle that interests you, immediately call the seller to verify information about the vehicle. You should ask about the year, make, model, mileage, transmission (whether it's an automatic or manual), and condition of the car. When everything checks out, ask for the vehicle's VIN number and set up an appointment.
Step 3

Buy a used car involves common sense! If the seller insists on an appointment at night, you KNOW something is not right.
Step 4

Buy a used car involves verification of the car's past history. Use the vehicle's VIN number to check the history of the car on www.carfax.com. Carfax has the car's history. More importantly, a lot of people are selling salvage cars and try to trick innocent buyers into paying big bucks for it.
Step 5

Buy a used car involves knowing its value. Next step is go online and check the retail price of that car you intend to buy. This gives you a bull park of what you would expect to pay for the used car.
Step 6

Now, you have an idea of what the vehicle is worth, it makes it easier for you to haggle. Be on time for the appointment and bring somebody you trust that knows a lot about cars.
Step 7

Be on time with the appointment if you really intend to buy the car.
Step 8

Buy a used car involves checking the car for problems. Your friend that knows about cars should carefully check every part of the car. He should inform you privately about what he finds out about the car and whether he recommends buying it or not.
Step 9

Buy a used car involves checking all accessories in that car. Check all the electrical devices in the car, windows, locks, radio and anything that the car is equipped with. If something is not working, you will be able to negotiate price.
Step 10

Buy a used car involves a lot of negotiating. Try to haggle and buy it at the cheapest price the seller is willing to take. Try to go 10% below kelly blue book's suggested price.

Comments

francwaa1981 said

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on 10/23/2009 Great article!!! I would also suggest using a broker they'll restore the vehicle to top condition and help you sell the car for more money with less efforts. Plus you get to avoid the stress of trying to sell your car. And if your not in need of the vehicle they can sell through car dealerships for larger profits. A good company is http://www.nohassleautosale.com or Skys Auto Brokers I've used them both and I believe they are pretty equal in service they provide. Plus you can find your new or used car through them for cheper and they do the inspecting for you.