How to Buy a for Sale by Owner Car

Buying a car from a private seller is different than buying from a brand name dealership. While you may find less expensive cars by owner, you can wind up buying something that does not meet your expectations. You need to be careful and there are ways of accomplishing this. Knowing how to buy a for sale by owner car will help you make the best purchasing decision.

Instructions

1

Find a car to buy through online, paper ads or from signs in car windows. Call or email the seller and ask for the vehicle Identification number (VIN), if it is not listed in the ad.

2

Use the VIN to obtain a vehicle history report. The information will provide valuable details about the car's history, including the prior maintenance performed, whether it has been in an accident or if it has a salvaged title. The report also will allow you to check that the make, model and year matches the VIN number. You may purchase a vehicle history report at CarFax.com, Autocheck.com or other reliable sources (see the Resources section).

3

Inspect the car. It's always a good idea to view the car in person rather than trust the owner's description about its appearance and condition. Make arrangements to have the car inspected by a licensed mechanic, also. A mechanic will spot any hidden problems and maintenance issues that the seller may not know about. The small amount of money you spend to pay a mechanic to inspect the car could keep you from making the more costly mistake of purchasing a damaged vehicle.

4

Check the title for existing loans or liens. Make sure the seller's name is listed and the VIN number on the form matches the numbers on the vehicle.

5

Obtain the title upon taking possession of the car. Never buy a used car without this "pink slip." The seller could be trying to unload a stolen car or one that belongs to someone else. Make sure that the seller signs the title in the appropriate section at the time that you pay for the car so that you may take it to the Department of Motor Vehicles to record the new title and registration.