09/05/2026
Why I don't help people find used cars anymore...
I'm usually the guy people reach out to once they've exhausted all their options or realize the actual difficulties/limitations involved with finding, buying, and registering a good, used vehicle.
And while I did offer the service in the past (finding a used vehicle for someone), I no longer do so because of the work that's involved and the lack of willingness from folks to pay for the service, as well as patience to wait to find a good candidate. They sadly wouldn't see/value the effort I placed on finding them the best option possible and would opt with going with someone else, after I had invested time and effort.
Now, I still do sell used cars, but these are generally very few, mostly consignment deals (on behalf of clients), and as good as they get in the used market. These cars for sale will be locally owned, mechanically solid, low mileage, clean paperwork, etc.
You'll see these listed on this page and on my website.
But anyways, back to the original topic on why I don't go and look for used cars for people...
Finding a good vehicle requires a hefty amount of time, effort, and due diligence. Please read that again, with emphasis of the word "good".
Buying a used car can be technically easy if you don't know what you're doing. You kick some tires, have a random guy look the car over, exchange some money, and now you own a car. Congrats.
Then you go post on FB and share to the world about how easy of a process it was. And, in some cases, it is that easy. Sometimes, you just happen to be on the the receiving end of an ethical seller.
However, there is also the other side of the coin.
Throughout the years I've been in the automotive industry, I have seen some crazy things. I still do.
I'm talking vehicles sold with fake paperwork, "one-owner" vehicles with a ton of endorsements in the back of the title. Cars advertised sold in excellent condition that have clearly been in serious accidents, etc.
When I used to offer the service, I checked all the boxes, to make sure that my clients were buying an excellent vehicle with no risk to them. Sadly, it happened very frequently that people cared more about getting a better "deal" while ignoring the risks.
So, what exactly are these boxes that need to be checked to rescue the risk of buying a lemon?
Let's go over the most common ones.
Price and location: Who's selling the car? Does it appear to be in good condition? Is the seller reputable? Will the price be negotiable?
Vehicle condition: How does the car look on the inside and outside? Paint, plastics, under the hood, roof of the car, tires, brakes, under carriage. You need to see it person to determine.
Vehicle driving: Does it drive well? Any issues or noises with the suspension, brakes, engine?
Vehicle inspection: If eveything looks well, great. Now, it's time to have a trusted mechanic inspect it. Is the seller willing to subject their car to it?
Paperwork: It's crucial to make sure they have the original paperwork (factura and registration).
Legal status: Where is the car registered? Are there any outstanding tickets? Does it legally check out without a theft report.
Payment: How does the seller want to be paid? How can you guarantee that the transaction is done safely?
Registration: Do you have the necessary documentation to register in your state?
The above are just a few of the questions and topic that need to be looked over to try to guarantee a smooth used-car-buying process.
R.
