Some guys might say the deals on Ebay Motors are not what they used to be. If you are having trouble locating a certain vehicle for a certain price in your local listings, however, perhaps, it’s time to take your search to a national level.
If you take your time, investigate the vehicle and seller thoroughly, and follow the eBays rules of vehicles purchase, your chances of success will increase. If you really want to make damn sure you’re not getting screwed, we’ve pulled together a list of must-do tips:
- Find the local value (worth) of the vehicle in question, and set your maximum price to $2,000 below that number. This insures you’ll get a “deal”, even if there are a few snags along the way.
- Get financing in advance.
- No- reserve auctions are generally the best deals, as the seller is literally looking for the “best offer”
- Don’t get too excited over a great deal! If it seems to good to be true, it probably is.
- Watch a few vehicles before you get involved in bidding, so you know what to expect in price.
- Check the sellers feedback to get an idea on their trustworthiness. If you feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to call and chat with the seller, or ask for references.
- Ask lots of questions. If the listing does not mention it, and it is something important to you, find out about it… never assume anything!
- Read all small print of the sale, paying attention to extra fees, the option to cancel if you are not satisfied with the vehicle once you’ve taken delivery, etc.
- Have the vehicle inspected. This can be done before you purchase the vehicle for under $100. You can also wait until the vehicle is already won, and have the mechanic meet you before you take delivery, and have it thoroughly inspected before the final exchange of papers.
- Pay attention to the Carfax report, which many auctions list conveniently on the listing, so you no longer have to pay the $25 fee.
- Don’t “compete” with other bidders. It is not a competition of who wins, but rather if you can find what you want for the price you’re willing to pay.
- While some people may recommend making it a cash sale (personal check, money order, western union, etc), using a credit card, reliable escrow service, or Paypal, will be your best defense against fraud or receiving a lemon.
- Check the VIN number on the vehicle delivered, to make sure it matches up with the listings number.
- Don’t let the seller take the sale “outside eBay”, no matter how much he offers to reduce the price. You will lose all protection for the purchase.
- Keep a record of all e-mails with the seller, and get everything in writing, as far as the terms of sale, any fees, taxes, damage to the vehicle, etc.
- Purchase round trip plane tickets if you fly. You’ll save a lot if you decide not to purchase the vehicle.
About Dr. Eric J. Leech
Eric has written for over a decade. Then one day he created Urbasm.com, a site for every guy.
About Dr. Eric J. Leech