I started where everyone does: and Edmunds . These sites were my North Star for "Fair Market Value." I decided on a reliable sedan—something that wouldn't die on a highway in the middle of Nebraska.
I scoured , Cars.com , and Facebook Marketplace . Pro tip: Marketplace has the best deals but the most "characters." I looked for listings with detailed service records and avoided anything with a "Rebuilt" or "Salvage" title—those are headaches in disguise. Phase 2: The Background Check how to buy second hand car in usa
I met a seller named Dave in a well-lit grocery store parking lot (safety first!). I did the "walk-around": I started where everyone does: and Edmunds
Before even seeing a car, I asked for the . I ran a Carfax report. It cost a few bucks, but it’s cheaper than buying a flooded car. I checked for: Pro tip: Marketplace has the best deals but
I called my insurance provider before driving away. In most states, you can't legally drive without it. Phase 6: The DMV Victory Lap
Dave signed it over to me. This is the "birth certificate" of the car.
To ensure the mileage wasn't "rolled back." Phase 3: The Meeting and the "Kick"