How‌ ‌to‌ ‌Purchase‌ ‌a‌ ‌Pre-Owned‌ ‌Car:‌ ‌A‌ ‌Buyer’s‌ ‌Checklist‌ ‌

With the rising cost of new cars, it’s no surprise that consumers are increasingly looking to purchase used cars these days. Use the checklist below and negotiate in earnest with a dealer or private seller to get yourself the best deal.

Figure out What You Can Spend

This will usually include how much you can pay as a down payment, the value of your trade-in, and how much you can afford to spend every month.

Do Your Homework

This part is as simple as finding out which vehicles meet both your needs and budget.

Go Through Used Car Listings

Whether you are looking at a  dealer or a private seller, this step will help you figure out what’s available and how they’re priced. Make your search more relevant by searching for a specific make, model, body type, or price range. Next, sort the results in terms of price, mileage, or distance from your zip code.

Determine a Fair Price

Find out as much as you can about the car’s history and maintenance records. Figure out what the average transaction price range is for the model you want. Based on these specifics, you’ll be able to understand the average retail price and trade-in value when buying from a dealer. It will also help you negotiate better if you’re buying from a private owner.

Contact the Sellers and Take a Test Drive

Once you’ve narrowed down on a couple of listings, contact the dealer/owner to find out if the car is available and inquire about the asking price. Have a mechanic conduct a proper examination after the test drive to ensure everything is working properly.

Negotiate

Research the vehicle’s value ahead of time to make it easier to negotiate. Even when buying from a “fixed price” dealership, you can ask for extended warranty coverage before you make the deal.

Check Paperwork

Check the numbers to ensure that they are true to what was agreed upon, sign the paperwork correctly, and make sure you register the car or get help with registration and licensing.