Buying a Used Car? Head Online!
The future of car shopping may be online. On average, used car prices among virtual sellers are found to be lower than the average listing price at traditional used car dealerships. The prices are actually over $2,000 lower compared to certified pre-owned cars and about $200 lower compared to non-certified cars.
But at traditional dealerships, all prices are negotiable. You could find a great deal by visiting dealerships. But then you’d have to employ negotiation tactics that you may not like. You may only find certified pre-owned cars at franchised dealerships. Still, cars listed with online dealerships have had a full mechanical inspection and offer warranties, return policies and even bring the car home for a test drive.
New Methods for Old Cars
There are certain aspects of the traditional way of buying cars that people just don’t like. These include short test drives in unfamiliar areas with a salesperson who talks nonstop, complicated negotiations about everything, a sales process that is four to six hours long, high-pressure pitches for extras, no return policy, and the general environment of a dealership.
But, virtual dealers offer transparent prices, finance choices, and upfront trade-in price quotes. Some also bring the car home so you can test drive it in a relaxed, familiar setting. They also offer a five to seven day or limited mile return policy, fixed pricing on additional warranties and other products, and contract signing in a remote or relaxed setting.
Trade-Offs
The pricing and convenience are definitely a plus, but there are downsides. The manufacturer’s warranties that come with certified cars from franchised dealerships may be more comprehensive than the virtual dealer warranties. You should always review what is covered by the warranty and how long it will last. If you do go to a traditional dealer, you can research the current market value of a car from an independent source. Used-car buying is also a touch and feel process, and you cannot decide on a used car from images alone.
Virtual car dealerships are getting more popular than ever. There are some that boast an inventory of up to 19,000 cars while others deliver cars to customers in the lower 48 states.
