Friday, February 25, 2011

Find A Good Deal: Check Out Repossessed Cars For Sale

By Andrew Wilson


If you are in the market for a car, one place to start your search is by looking into repossessed cars for sale. These cars are reclaimed by banks or lenders when the original owner defaults on their loan. To make back their money, the bank or lender is usually willing to sell the vehicle at a discounted price.

First, look for auction houses in your local area, as these are where you can find many repossessed cars for sale. Large auction houses sell the majority of these vehicles, and these auctions and auction houses can be found by looking online or in local newspaper classifieds. Local banks who reclaim these cars may also have them for sale on their property, as to avoid paying fees to have them auctioned off. Car dealerships may also have some repossessed vehicles available.

Auction houses usually have information on the makes, models and years of the cars for sale as well. Banks and car dealers often keep these cars on the property so that customers can see them. Potential buyers should research the types of cars that they prefer and the types of cars that are available. By researching in advance, buyers will be able to make quick decisions at auction if necessary. Buyers should also ask to see a vehicle history report, if it is available.

Financing is a vital part of preparing to buy any car, especially a repossessed vehicle. No buyer wants to buy a repossessed automobile, only to have it repossessed again because they cannot afford it. Buyers should determine how much they can afford to spend first. They should secure the type of financing they need before making the purchase. Also, if buying a repossessed car, buyers should make sure they have the correct type of payment, as some auction houses only accept specific payment methods.

Test driving the automobile is a great idea, if that option is available. This may be the case at banks and dealerships, and often auction houses as well. If you cannot test drive the car, at least start the engine to determine that the car is running. If you do not feel knowledgeable enough about cars, bring a mechanic or a friend for assistance.

There are several other important tips to know before buying a repossessed car at auction. Bad weather days are a good day to go to an auction, since you will be competing against fewer people. Going early in the morning and going on a weekday instead of a weekend will also reduce the crowds that you will encounter. Taking a copy of a Kelley Blue Book, which gives you the values of used cars in various conditions, is also helpful.

Make sure to do your research before buying a car at auction. Read and understand any buyer premiums or fees that may be involved and written in the fine print of your contract. Taking a visit to an auction before you intend to buy is also helpful, since you will have an understanding of how these auctions are run. Research the types of cars available and do not make a rash decisions about purchasing a car.

Repossessed cars for sale are often a great option. Many of these cars are in great condition and can be bought for a deeply discounted price.




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