TheSamba.com :: View topic

Wed Aug 29, 2007 3:10 pm

There is no formal process for buying a car over the Internet but there are some steps you can take to feel safer. Here are some processes I have followed when buying or selling cars in the past.

Basic process I have used with success:
1. Negotiate the deal
2. Send Payment - Buyer sends payment, normally by cashier's check or via wire transfer. Personal check acceptance is up to the seller. I do not accept personal checks unless I know the buyer.
3. Send Paperwork - Upon receipt of payment, sellers sends title, notarized if required in your state, and signed bill of sale to buyer.
3a. Optional - Buyer sends back signed bill of sale to seller for seller to have a copy.
4. Transport - Buyer arranges transport.
5. Pickup - Seller assists with vehicle pickup by transport company.
6. Delivery - Vehicle delivered.

Tips:
1. Read Tips for Internet Buying and Selling - there is a lot of good information there on how to feel safe or make sure you have the most information possible, especially if you are buying something without seeing it in person, i.e. "site unseen".
2. I highly recommend when buying a vehicle that you view the car in person whenever possible. It is often worth the price of a plane ticket or time away from work. The higher the sales price, the greater I feel this is a necessity.
3. There is a level of trust involved at Step 2 - Send Payment. If you do not feel safe sending payment or with anything regarding the transaction, don't be afraid to walk away. There is always another car out there.
4. With any car, there will be some surprises. Be prepared for this eventuality. Minimize what it is by asking as many questions as you need to or getting whatever photos you need to feel confident about the transaction. You want it to be something simple like the interior light doesn't work, not something expensive like the floor pans are rusted out.