Hi...this is my 1st question.. Im buying a car very soon..If I have to resort to a Dealership, can the fact that they are bonded assist me in the buying process?
Hi Sharon,
Welcome
Are we talking about a new car or used car?
The dealer is independent or the brand dealer.
Why do you have to "resort" to a dealership?
While dealerships are bonded they are there to make money so I have seen
some interesting things at dealerships and it takes a lot before you can put a claim in on a bond.
If it is financing I would check local credit unions or online banks or finance first.
Even your car insurance company may loan money.
I do tend to like buying from a car owner with all the history of the car (paperwork)
Do have it checked out by and independent mechanic that you trust (ask for a pre purchase inspection) it will save you a lot later.
Hope this helps a bit
If you have additional questions or add some more info on what
you are looking for feel free to ask.
@xtraba
Thanks... It isnt very often that I buy a vehicle. I never bought one from an owner... Not financing. Im looking for a good Honda or Lexus. (used) Im afraid ...I know how people take advantage. I think my problem is dealing with difficult people.
That is understandable. There are people out there that will try and take advantage.
Personally I have found buying cars from individuals, I have been better off then the dealer especially
the independent. Getting one from the Honda or Lexus dealer that has a warranty could be advantageous.
Making sure the person has paperwork (good documentation) gives you a level of security.
Having that pre purchase inspection by an independent mechanic you know and trust will keep you from
getting one that you do not want to be in. Do a check on kelly blue book and NADA to get a general idea on price.
If the pre purchase inspection looks good and you are ready to buy write down the things they said it might need or
minor flaws that you can use to negotiate a better price. If they do not want to come down and are within the price
range and you know it is good from the mechanic. Smile at them and say no one ever got anything by not asking 🙂
Last bit advice I would give is to make sure to look at least 4 or 5 cars. Do not just jump at the first one which is
tempting. As you may know The Honda and Lexus are both solid so they move pretty well but now is a great time to
be looking, so get one you are happy with.
Anyone that says they know everything about everything I never trust. Buying a car is new
but be confident. You can do it and get a good car. I know you can.
@xtraba
Wow thanks for being supportive. Im so glad I found this on Youtube and this site as well. I wont jump on the 1at car!! NO WAY. I think I will watch ALL of Scotty's videos on buying a used car. I have time and money.. Finally. Im open too ALL advice on here, it feels really safe.
@xtraba
Also.. I need to get my ducks in a row... If Im going to hire a Mechanic, I will have to research. And, I want my money's worth... It sounds desirable that if you're gonna hire one, you should have at least 3 cars picked out... for an hour...is this reasonable?? Assuming the cars are in close proximity to one another.
Hi Sharon,
Starting by watching Scotty's videos on buying a used car is an excellent way to start.
There is one on the best luxury cars to buy that talks about the Lexus in particular.
i would see some cars and narrow it down to one or two cars and have them do the Pre Purchase Inspection
on that one or two. The inspection is kind of a check to make sure all is good and give you confidence that
you are purchasing a solid car. Lining up a good mechanic that knows the Lexus or Honda is a good idea that you
can work with and trust. They are a very popular and good car so most will have worked on them, mainly find a
mechanic that you like. Not only this will be good for the PPE but down the road if you need any work done, having a
mechanic you like trust and have a good relationship with is really good.
Both great ideas! I think you are on a great path to finding a good car and having a great experience.
@xtraba
Thanks. After today, I'll have more time to watch the videos. I just found out my best friend down in Ky has a lesion on her brain. No guarantees in this life, just flying by the seat of our pants.