Buying Your Dream Car From A Private Seller
If you're looking to buy from a private seller, here are some tips:
- Be prepared to act quickly, but not hastily
- Become comfortable with online auctions
- Make sure to look beyond the CARFAX report
- Stay aware of hidden problems like flooding
- Be willing to walk away
- Make buying a car an adventure
Auction Etiquette 101
If you're looking to bid at an auction, here are some etiquette tips:
- Don’t jump in the pool right away
- Get pre-approval before you show up
- Don’t follow the herd
- Do your homework, and ask for help
- Set a maximum bid price, and stick to it
- Talk to the auction staff
- Avoid the bidding drama
- Be seated and be quiet
- Wait till after the auction ends to celebrate
Buying Your Dream Car At Auction
If you're looking to buy at an auction, here are some tips:
- Do your homework on any car you’re bidding on
- Obtain pre-approval for financing or leasing
- Set a maximum bidding price and stick to it
- If selling, give the auction house enough time to market your car
- Detail your car, buy a new battery and put on authentic tires
Financing Your Dream Car
If you're looking to finance your car, here are some tips:
- For some buyers, cash is king. But they should explore all options
- Low monthly payments often involve long duration financing
- Traditional closed-end leasing will not work for all exotic & vintage owners
- Leasing can be a viable option for previously owned exotics & classics
- Purchase a car because you will enjoy driving it, not as an investment opportunity
Buying Your Dream Car from a Consignment Dealer
If you're looking to buy from a dealer, here are some tips:
- Make sure to get all fees up front, and in writing
- Look for certified late model cars of the marque you like
- For classics, work with a dealer that knows your model well
- Seek good counsel on market-correct pricing
- Always get a third-party inspection. Always.