Buying a Used Car from a Dealer vs a Private Seller

Buying a new to you or used car can be beneficial in many ways, but you should check out these pros and cons to help your buying decision.

Of course, a traditional way to buy a car is from a dealer that sells certified pre-owned cars, but you also have the option to buy from a private seller, which may save you some money. It all depends on the amount of research you’re prepared to do on the particular car you’re looking for.

Quality & Variety for a Used Car

If you’re unsure of what car you want to buy, then you may have better luck looking through a dealer’s inventory of pre-owned cars to begin your search. Dealerships often have a good variety of makes and models, so if you’re just starting your search, you can see some options and get a feel for what you’re looking for next. If you already have your sights set on a specific make or model, you can start searching through online marketplaces or through dealerships sites.

Looking for a specific car can be a little more challenging depending on if you’re wanting a specific year’s model or a less popular car. Either way, you’ll be in good hands whether you choose to browse a dealer’s inventory online or check the online classifieds. It will help your search if you make sure to check listings that have photos of the car that way you aren’t going to see the car without having a general idea of its condition.

Trustworthiness

It’s important that wherever you buy your car that you’re buying it from a reliable and trustworthy person. While it’s not common that private sellers will lie or withhold details about the car they’re selling, unless you already know the person, it can be hard to determine if all the car’s history is mentioned thoroughly. When you’re buying pre-owned from a dealer, you can expect to receive a full report of the car’s condition and any reported accidents it has been involved in, if any. If you find yourself unsure of a private seller or a dealer, trust your gut and instincts. If you have any bad vibes or uneasiness from either, it’s important to say thank you, and then continue your car search. You don’t have to buy the first car you see or test drive.

Savings

Depending on your budget, both dealers and private sellers offer great options. Dealers typically have a range of used cars available, so you can check out their inventory and specifically focus on cars in your budget. Dealers also run specials throughout the year, which may help you save additional money off the price tag. When you buy from a private seller, depending on how motivated that person is to sell their car to you, they may be willing to negotiate the listed price, and that can be in your favor.

Your Used Car, Your Decision

Ultimately, it’s your choice whether you buy a preowned car from a dealer or a private seller. Above all, make sure to do your own due diligence and trust your instincts as a buyer. Ask questions, make sure you’re given the history of a car before you buy it, and take your time to find the right car. You’ll know you’ve made the right choice when you drive home in your new to you car.