jdmvaaj

So I've never bought a car from a private seller before, only from dealers.. What do I need to know? Need to do? Need to bring? What to expect? What about the paperwork and whatnot? Help me out guys. Thanks!

davcivic

look up online some type of bill of sale form that you can print and bring along, he is the one that should do it but just in case. Include the names of both seller and buyer, car info year, color, style, brand, model, VIN, etc etc. Condition of the car, any IOUs or make clear it is sold as is. Check the title, check the VINs match and description on title. Test drive the car good, ask questions, don't be scared to check everything. It's your money and will be your car.

Use a check or money order, don't pay cash, unless it's under $1,000, not a big risk, any high amount you have to use a check or MO to have proof that everything is cool between both of you.

then take pics and post them up.

1991civicsi

Thats good advice, I would say the seller is usually eager to sell, and, you are in control because you are the consumer. There are plenty of cars to purchase, so dont be impatient, but, do research. Edmunds.com is good to research a specific model's history of frequent problems. Kelly Blue Book should give you a figure what the car is worth once you determine the vehicle's condition. Lastly get a Carfax report to verify it is not stolen.
You might want to take along somone to give the car a full inspection to determine the TRUE condition of the car. I like to start with the owner's price and if something is worn or broken I deduct it from the cost. And be thorough, check all the lights, tires, brakes, etc.
Expect the owner of the car to be hasty about the sale, and dismissive about the details of the vehicle. Not all sellers are shady, but I expect them to dislike the fact that I am meticulous.
Hope all goes well.

jdmvaaj

Yea I already carfaxed it this morning. Everything looks good. I talked to the owner yesterday and he seemed pretty honest. He told me where all the minor rust spots are, as well as a tiny dent,etc.. Trying to go for a test drive later tonight..