Buying a car privately in Australia

Buying a car privately is becoming an increasingly popular option in Australia. The trend is being brought about by the increased ease at which cars can be bought and sold, particularly through the advent of the internet and websites such as carsales.com.au and drive.com.au. For many used car buyers, they consider buying a car privately is the only way to purchase a second hand car. However, regardless of one’s level of experience in buying cars privately, there are certain key things which need to be considered when buying a car privately. Below is a list of tips that will help guide any prospective purchaser, whether they are a first-time car buyer or a veteran of the private seller market.

Tip One:

Decide on a particular car before you start looking around. With so many makes and models out there to choose from, it is important to select a specific car before you start researching around on what vehicles are for sale and for what price. It is also important to note that certain makes and models are renowned for being unreliable or for having problems – such cars should be avoided.

Tip Two:

Shop around. Many purchasers think that private sale cars are cheaper to buy from a dealer. This is not necessarily so. Additionally, just because a car is sold privately does not necessarily mean you are getting a good deal. In fact, in certain instances the opposite is true. The average car stays on the market for 6 weeks. What this means is that in 6 weeks time there will be a whole new set of cars that fit your criteria that are now available for purchase. Be patient and realise that missing out on one particular car may not be a bad thing as there are others becoming ready for sale to take its place.

Tip Three:

Pick a price and stick to it. When going to visit the seller, it is important to have in mind what is the most you are willing to pay for a car. Too often, purchasers get caught up in the heat of the moment and end up paying more than they can either afford or than that they would like to, leading to buyer’s remorse.

Tip Four:

Have the vehicle mechanically inspected. A mechanical inspection done through the RAC or a similar motoring body in your state, or alternatively any registered mechanic can give you the full details of any problems associated with that particular car. Just because a car is under New Car Warranty can give some confidence, it is still advisable to have the inspection done in these circumstances. Don’t rely on your mate Mike who knows a bit about cars – there are certain things that only a trained mechanic can ascertain, which will save you considerable cost and expense, should something go wrong.

Tip Five:

Get a REV’s Check. Rev’s stands for Registered Encumbered Vehicles Service. They have an equivalent in each state. A REV check ensures that there is no money currently owing on the car, because if you purchase a car where there is still finance outstanding, the financier has a stronger claim to the vehicle than you do. This could mean is that you would be purchasing your vehicle with money owing and after parting with your hard-earned cash, the vehicle is no longer yours.

Tip Six:

Citing the vehicle is important. When citing the vehicle, it is important to cite it where it is in full light and on a clear day. In some hours, you as a purchaser may not be able to detect any imperfections in the paintwork or any accidents that have been covered up. Also, it is crucial to take the car for a drive. Check not only for any mechanical noises or strange feelings, but also check blindspots, how comfortable the seats are and whether the level of power and general layout of the car is acceptable to you.