Buying A Car From A Private Seller? Two Things To Do Before Taking Possession
Buying a car from a private seller can be a great way to save money. Because the individual typically doesn't operate out of a dealership, they don't have the overhead expenses that come along with being a business owner. However, although you get to conserve some of your hard earned money, you also need to make sure that you protect yourself from a bad sale. Use this information to learn more about two things you should do before paying for the car and taking possession of it.
Make Sure That The Title Is Clean
The first thing you want to do is make sure that there is a clean title on the car. This is absolutely essential for a number of different reasons.
Buying a car that does not have a clean title can be truly devastating. You may love the vehicle and be excited about getting it registered in your name, only to go to your local department of motor vehicles and be told that you cannot register the car because there is a lien against the title. What this means is that you'll have to pay the debt in order to clear off the title so that you can register and insure it. As long as the lien is there, you won't be able to fully own the car.
Even if the person who is selling you the car says that the title is clear, it's vital that you do a little digging on your own. There could be a title loan that the owner forgot about that is still looming in the background. Take the title number to your motor vehicle services division and do a trace on it. This way you can take possession of the car with full peace of mind.
Have Your Mechanic Take A Look At The Car
If you've taken a test drive of the car that you're thinking of purchasing and everything seemed to run okay, you may be ready to fork over the cash. However, no matter how smooth the ride was you must have your mechanic give it a thorough inspection. You don't want to start uncovering problems after you've bought the car because at that point it will be too late.
Making a good automobile purchase doesn't have to be difficult if you just know what to look for. The next time you're going to buy a car from a private seller, keep these tips in mind so you can make the right choice.
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