Finding Cheap Used Cars The Easy Way

When you’re looking for a used car, there are usually two major things that you’re looking for to fit into your criteria, one is that the car is still in good condition, and two, that it’s cheap. For cheap used cars, looks aren’t the first thing to worry about, polishing the wheels and the body can all be dealt with later, with a quick shine up using a metal polish kit and maybe taking it to your local body shop for a new paint job if necessary. Regardless, this article is designed to help you prepare for the process of finding a cheap used car that is in good condition, for sale. 

Benefits of Buying A Used Car Instead of a New Car

Now you may be wondering, why don’t you just go buy a new car from a dealership, that way you don’t have to worry about the history and condition of the used vehicle? In a perfect world, we would all be able to afford our dream car, but for many of us a brand new vehicle is out of the question and can end up putting us in more debt than we are prepared for. Additionally, when you purchase a new car from a dealership they add additional costs like “markups” and add ons, just so that they can make a larger profit that has nothing to do with the value of the actual vehicle. 

The bottom line is that buying used, is cheaper than buying new and if you need a car in good condition but don’t have a lot of money to spend, used cars are a perfect choice. 

Buy Used Cars for Sale By Owner

When you go to purchase a used car, all dealerships are the same. What this means is that even a used car dealership is going to mark up the cost of the car so that they can make a profit. Often, these markups are astronomical when compared to the actual value of the car. When shopping for a used car, the best way to find what you’re looking for is to search, “used cars for sale by owner”. Here’s why. 

People who are looking to sell their cars are often looking to get rid of their cars and want a newer model. For this reason, most cars sold by other car owners are in pretty decent condition and you don’t run as much of a risk of paying more than what the car is worth.

When you’re searching for a used car, find the one that you want, that’s in good condition and for the right price. Once you find the car for sale that you’re looking for head over to Kelley Blue Book to check that the price is similar to that area and for the value of the car. If all things look good, contact the owner of the used car to see if the vehicle has been sold not. If the car or truck is still available, ask if you can have the car inspected by either a shop or someone you trust. Look out for things like rust and corrosion on the body which are difficult, but not impossible to get off with the right kind of metal polish. And of course, if any mechanical issues are present. If they refuse to have the car inspected so that you can purchase it, move on. They’re obviously hiding something, but for the most part, you’ll find that many people selling their cars are honest and easy to work with. 

Once you’ve had the used car inspected, and everything checks out, it’s time to negotiate a price. Usually, the initial asking price is a little higher than what the owner hopes to get, so try negotiating with them to see if you can get a better deal or until you have settled on a price for the car. 

With the price settled on, head over to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) providing the bill of sale so that you can get new tags and become the official owner of your new, used car. Then if there are any cosmetic issues, you can go have your new vehicle detailed, get it polished, or do it yourself using a metal polish kit. And you’re ready to hit the road in your used car. I hope this article helps you find the right car or truck for your needs and at the right price. Good Luck!