A car is a big investment, and unfortunately it is also one that is guaranteed to depreciate in value over time. Buying a used car can take some of the sting out of purchasing a vehicle, but it's still important to look for the best deal possible. Consumers should never overlook three very important resources when shopping for an affordable used car.
Money Saving Car Buying Tip - Purchasing a Used Rental Car
One stop for used car shoppers should be the auto sales division of a local rental car company. According to Motortrend, vehicles sold from the fleet of a rental car company are generally only a few years old and may even still be under the manufacturer's warranty.
Rental cars may (but not always) have a history of being treated roughly by customers, their maintenance history is completely documented. The biggest advantage is that they are competitively priced. Motortrend explains that rental companies buy at a lower price in the first place, and their main focus is on making a profit through renting, not selling, their fleet.
Places to Save Money on a Pre-Owned Vehicle - Used Car Auctions
Cars can also be auctioned off for a variety of reasons. AOL Autos explains that at government auto auctions, two types of cars are sold: seized vehicles from legal offenders and former vehicles used for government service.
Buying a car at auction is probably not for everyone, because it is a fast-paced, emotionally charged car buying experience. But if one is flexible and willing to consider many different makes, models, and colors, he or she can find a great deal at a car auction.
Cheap Car Prices - Buying a Used Car from a Private Seller
Many people find good cheap used cars by scouring classified ads in the paper or on the Internet posted by private individuals. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns that extra caution needs to be used when buying from a private seller, because cars from private sellers come "as is" without warranties or returns.
Buying from a private seller might net a good deal on a pre-owned car because they may be less experienced in pricing or haggling on purchase price, or the seller may be willing to accept a lower offer than their asking price if they want to sell the car quickly.
Buying a car is a major expense, but car buyers can lessen the impact on their finances by looking for a cheap used car at a rental company, auto auction, or through a private seller. Affordable used cars are out there, if consumers know where to start looking.
Jenny Evans - Jenny Evans is a freelance writer and editor specializing in parenting and the family. She is also the Mormonism Topic Editor for ...
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