More cars than ever are available at local car auctions and nationwide. With greater supply, prices are generally lower. And with online auto auctions, taking advantage of these wholesale (or near wholesale) deals couldn’t be easier (or safer!)
Buying a vehicle at auction is one of the best ways to get a great deal on a car; in fact, its where most used car dealers go to get their own stock. Whether you live in Boston, New Hampshire, or Vermont, participating in online auctions can give you the same results without paying for the middleman. You can score some fantastic deals, especially if you’re looking for a second vehicle, like a convertible for those New England summers at the shore, or one of the hottest selling cars on the used car market for price that fits your budget.
Ready to look for your hot summer ride? Here are some tips to keep in mind when buying at auction:
- Make sure you are participating in a public used car auction, not a dealer-only auction. That also goes for government vehicle auctions.
- Buy with your head, not just your eyes (unless you a desire to have the hottest ride in town!) The best deal is the one that fits your needs and is mechanically sound. Then look at model, style and color. Overbidding on the hot car on the list may get you no better deal than buying direct from a dealer. If you want the best deal, pick the least popular, plainest vehicle on the list.
- When bidding at online auctions, make sure you have factored in the cost of delivery. If you are located in MA, you won’t really save on costs if you buy a car located in California. Although online auctions give you the ability to shop anywhere, if you live in Massachusetts, buy from a dealer located somewhere in New England.
- Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Its possible to get a report of the history of the car using this number from resources like DMV.org or Carfax.com.
- Buy from a reputable aucion that will offer warranties if available and pre-bidding independent vehicle inspections.
- Do your research. Know the “Blue Book” values of the car you are looking at. Look at listings on craigslist and classified ads for the New England region. And stick to the vehicles you have researched.
- Bidding is fun. Bidding is a way to get the best price possible, for both the buyer, and the seller. Know your limit, and stick to it. You’ll be happier, you’ll get a better deal, and the online auction company will be pleased because you will provide great references for their site.
- Choose a well-respected online auction service. It is much easier to research an online auction for good business practices than a transient live auctioneer who does not have an online reputation to maintain.
Want to get your next car from our reliable, reputable online auctions? Contact us today to get the details of our next sale!
