Buying a Used Car from a Dealership vs. Private Seller

If you are in the market for a new-to-you vehicle, you have two options. You can purchase the car from a dealership like Holman or you can buy a used car from a private seller. While it is possible to get a good deal from a private seller, this option is not without risks. In the guide below from Holman, we cover buying a used car from a dealership vs. private seller, the benefits of buying a used car from a dealership, and why not to buy a used car from a private seller. 

Buying from a Private Seller: Pros & Cons 

Pros:

• Owner’s Perspective: Private sellers have first-hand knowledge of the vehicle. If they are being completely honest with you, they can be a good resource on the intricacies of the vehicle. 
• Niche Market: If you’re searching for a classic car or something that is very specific, you may have more luck finding it from a private seller. 

Cons:

• No Coverage/Protection: Most private sellers do not offer warranty protection, so if something happens to the car, even right after you purchase it, you are on the hook to make the repairs. 
• Lack of Service History: Not all private sellers provide you with the vehicle’s service history, so it may have been quite a while since the vehicle was brought in for routine maintenance. 

Buying from a Dealership: Pros & Cons 

Pros: 

• Competitive Prices/Wide Selection: Why buy a used car from a dealership? You have a diverse array of options to choose from. Dealerships like Holman also offer some of the most competitive prices in the area. 
• Certified Pre-Owned Inventory: Dealerships offer certified pre-owned models, which must meet strict standards for quality set by the manufacturer. They also come with perks like warranty coverage for added peace of mind. 
• Trade-Ins: If you plan to trade in your current vehicle, dealerships make it easy to do so. That amount can then be put toward the cost of your next car. 

Cons: 

• Financing: While the most cost-effective way to buy a car is to pay in cash, that’s not an option for most shoppers. That’s why dealerships offer used car financing. 

Experience the Benefits of Buying a Used Car from a Dealership 

Now that you know the difference between buying a used car from a dealership vs. private seller and why not to buy a used car from a private seller, start your used car shopping journey with Holman today. Contact us if you have any questions.