What is the Best Way to Look For a Great Deal on a Used Car?
Today’s car buyers have almost too many places to shop. From social media marketplaces to online classifieds to dealership websites, we are overwhelmed with choices and a nearly infinite supply of cars. So just where can we go to find the best deal on a pre-owned vehicle? It boils down to 3 options: a dealership, a small car lot, or a private seller. Each option has its pluses and minuses, but when you’re making such a big decision you want to give yourself the best opportunity of getting the absolute best deal you can.
Purchasing at Independent Sellers
If you’re seeking a rare vehicle, especially an old vehicle, then a private seller might be your only real option. You could get a great price on the pre-owned vehicle you’ve been looking for, but you take on almost all of the risk. You will be accountable for all of these items found at the dealer:
Reviews – There may be absolutely no background info. Should you believe the seller?
Warranty – Caveat Emptor, Buyer Beware
Vehicle History – You are paying for vehicle history reports.
Pre-Purchase Inspections – A 3rd party pre-purchase inspection is suggested, but you’re responsible for the cost.
Financing – While many sellers want cash, you can also try getting a loan through your bank. Your choices are smaller either way.
The Car’s Current Condition – There might be unknown or underlying reasons why they’re selling the vehicle.
Pre-Owned Car Shopping From the Dealer
While a lot of people will agree that it’s the easiest way to buy a used car, some believe they can score a cheaper deal somewhere else. Nothing can equal the customer service we provide, even if you could get a lower price somewhere else (most likely with more miles and fewer guarantees on condition).
Advantages of buying here are:
Multiple Options for Financing – We offer multiple ways to get you financed.
Lots of Reviews – See what other customers think.
History Reports of the Vehicle – Know the history of the used car you may purchase.
Pricing that is Straightforward – Our experienced vehicle consultants work hard to provide competitive prices.
Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles – We offer CPO vehicles for peace of mind.
Huge Selection of Used Vehicles – Most dealerships don’t have the same selection as we do.
Vehicle Delivery – We can deliver. Just ask.
Online Buying – Buy online when you can’t make it to us.
Convenient Hours of Operation – We have extended hours of business so that we can be accessible when you need us.
Buy Here Pay Here Lots
An independent pre-owned car lot can offer some of the conveniences of a bigger dealership, such as a big selection of cars and the possibility of browsing them online. You can still get a large choice of cars, trucks, or SUVs and the possibility of viewing them online at an independent pre-owned car lot, but they do offer more risks. While some car lots may be entrenched in the local area, several others seem to come and go almost overnight. Here are a few of the other differences between a car lot and a dealer:
Vehicle Inspections – Inspections at car lots are generally not as detailed.
Pre-Sale Repairs – ‘Quick fixes’ may be employed to maximize profits and save money.
Service Technicians – Used car lots usually only employ limited on-site repair mechanics, some with minimal experience.
Reputation – Some used car lots pick profitability over customers.
Vehicle Condition – Be on the lookout for high mileage vehicles with potentially vague histories.
Financing – The rates are generally higher than most if they offer in-house financing.
No Certified Pre-Owned – CPO cars, trucks, and SUVs are only available at certified dealers.
Visit Sterling McCall Buick GMC for Used Trucks & SUVs
Sterling McCall Buick GMC welcomes you to browse our outstanding selection of used trucks and SUVs for sale in Houston, TX. Buy, sell, trade, or even get pre-approved for financing, online or in-person. We provide quality, convenience, and competitive pricing that you can believe in. Visit our Houston area used car lot today. We look forward to serving you.
