If paying for the services provided by a dealer doesn't really appeal, there's always the private route. The man on the street has no overheads, no legal obligation to prepare and valet the car, and rarely offers a warranty. As such, costs will be correspondingly lower.
There can be certain risks involved as unscrupulous sellers may try to use private sales to off-load sub-standard and / or stolen cars. But don't let this put you off to buying a car privately. If you're sensible, buying privately can have you motoring for far less than if you'd chosen to buy from a dealer.
But you need to be aware of the following things:
- You have less legal come back than through a dealer. Cars advertised for private sale must be "as described" but that's about as far as the legal obligations go.
The checks that a dealer is compelled to make by law aren't a benefit in a private sale. This can be expensive if you choose to go the full professional inspection route.
Part-exchanges are rarely considered, meaning you'll have to sell your old car yourself, or dispose of it at trade price to a dealer
You won't get a warranty.
Part-exchanges are rarely considered, meaning you'll have to sell your old car yourself, or dispose of it at trade price to a dealer
As long as you make the right checks, buying a car privately can be more satisfying and financially rewarding than the dealer route - it just takes a little more work.
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