Tips for Buying Used Cars on Craigslist

Are you looking for a cheap used car?  If so, there are many great places you can look, including Craigslist.org.  This online classified website has increased in popularity, meaning more cars listed and some great deals.

If this is your first time buying a used car from Craigslist, continue reading on for some helpful buying tips.

Don’t believe everything a seller says.  Most people are honest when selling used cars, but you will find some individuals who are willing to stretch the truth.  For that reason, don’t believe everything a seller says.  Instead, verify the information with your own eyes.  Before agreeing to buy a car from Craigslist, setup a meeting.  This is to inspect and test drive the car.  You can have money on hand to make an immediate purchase, but don’t agree to anything until you know the car in question looks and runs as originally described.

You should only use Craigslist.org to buy a car that you can pick-up yourself.  Right on the website, there is a warning about shipped cars.  The website warns these are scams.  Craigslist is designed to connect local buyers and sellers; therefore, shipping a car is not necessary and is usually a sign of a scam.  If you want to travel to buy a car, that is your choice, but be cautious of a seller who says right from the start that the vehicle can only be shipped to buyers, not picked up.

Know a car’s estimated retail value before agreeing to make a purchase.  Many factors go into determining a car’s estimated value, including damage, recently made repairs, and overall condition.  However, you can use the Kelley Blue Book and other similar programs to get a good idea of a car’s value.  Pictures posted can help too, as you have a good idea of the vehicle’s overall condition.  Unfortunately, some car owners are just trying to make money, meaning they may list their car with a high price.  Before buying a used car on Craigslist, ensure you truly are getting a good deal.  Do this by comparing the asking price with the estimated value.