Why be Wary of Buying Your Car from an Independent Seller?

Posted: Friday, May 27th, 2016

Should you be wary of purchasing a used car from an independent or private seller? The answer is usually yes. While it might be slightly cheaper to purchase a used car from a private party or independent seller, you have to be wary to make sure you’re getting what you pay for. Read on to find out more about the pros and cons of buying a car from an independent seller.

What to Worry About When Buying From A Private Seller

An independent party might be completely honest, transparent, friendly, and helpful, but your transaction might still be more complicated than purchasing with a dealer. Plus, not every private seller will be honest or transparent. Here are a few points to consider:

  • No Guarantee or Warranty: Since a private party isn’t in the business of selling cars, they will not likely offer any kind of warranty or guarantee. They are not bound by any laws that might require dealers to provide vehicles. You’ll have to purchase a vehicle “as is” if you decide to buy from an independent party.

  • Condition: When you purchase a used car from a private seller you need to consider the condition of the vehicle carefully – in fact, you should probably take it to a mechanic to make sure there aren’t any underlying issues that the seller might not know of or might be trying to conceal.

  • Paperwork: When you buy from a dealer, you won’t have to handle the title and registration paperwork, but when you purchase a vehicle from another private seller, you’ll need to deal with those things. You’ll need to register with your local DMV, provide proof of insurance, bill of sale, and more.

  • Security: When you plan to purchase a vehicle from an independent party you’ll have to meet with a stranger somewhere, possibly with large amounts of cash or a check. Security is something to consider in a situation like this.

  • Convenience: Most car dealerships keep regular hours, so you can stop in, test-drive some vehicles, and find the one you want. With an independent seller, you’ll have to arrange specific meeting times around both your schedule and the seller’s schedule.

Let Green Light Auto Credit Help Ensure You Get the Fairest Deal

We’re happy to help you find the funds to purchase a used car from a dealer or from an independent seller. The Green Light Auto Credit finance center is available to help you get the auto loan necessary to drive home in your next used car ASAP!

Find the Financing You Need at Green Light Auto Credit

Here at Green Light Auto Credit, we’re happy to help drivers find the right auto financing solution to get behind the wheel of a used car with all the assurances that an independent seller simply can’t offer. If you have any questions about your auto financing needs, feel free to contact us online now!

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