Suppose you now plan to purchase your own car after months or years of saving and working hard. A used car is a good place to start, but how do you even get around shopping for one?
There are two common ways to find used vehicles. These are likely dealerships in your area and the cars for sale by the owner. You may have heard of the hassles and headaches involved in purchasing a car. Some are just minor, others of them are clear deal-breakers, and the rest are red flags that mean you should take a look closer.
In this article, we will guide you on how to purchase a used car and what to look out for.
Tip #1: Check the Description in the Ad
Many people fall prey to scams because they purchased the car without asking for a detailed description of the vehicle. They only rely on the information provided in the ad. However, most ads gloss over crucial details you should look out for.
As much as we want to learn about the details, some car owners don’t disclose important details. It would be nice if private owners selling a car had to take a short course in how to write a car ad. It would save car shoppers a lot of time and frustration.
You know it’s a good car listing when it includes the model, mileage, what kind of condition the car is in, and its main features. A serious car owner will even share a detailed description of what they loved about this car, why they are now willing to part with it, what maintenance or repairs have been done recently, and other details that can provide you knowledge about the vehicle.
A bare-bones ad will lead you to ask too many questions, which means you have to make an appointment. It will be a hassle for both parties considering there are a couple of buyers asking for details. It’s best to look for car ads that have complete details.
Tip #2: Check the Photos of the Car
Many private owners post their cars on different websites and platforms, such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and more. This involves uploading photos of the vehicle.
A good listing should have at least 12 photos, but more is even better, up to as many as 24. If there are only a few photos, you may wonder what the seller is not showing you. Some platforms limit the number of photos, but if a private owner is serious about selling a car, they should go out of their way to provide the necessary information.
Tip #3: Easy Communication With the Seller
Suppose you finally found the car you want, but the seller isn’t responding. The terms are also confusing and unorganized. If you find yourself in this situation, you’re not alone.
Lack of communication is one of the biggest frustrations in buying a car from a private owner. The lack of quality communication can deter a person from purchasing a car. Best to buy from clear, organized, and communicative buyers.
Conclusion
Purchasing a car doesn’t have to be such a hassle. Follow our tips when buying a used car so that you won’t have any problems. Work with communicative and organized people to alleviate your stress.
Lewis Motor Sales offers quality and affordable used cars and pickup trucks for sale in Brentwood and Epping, NH. You will receive a used car without any hassle. Contact us today!