Buying from a Dealer vs. Private Seller

Shopping for a used car in greater Raleigh, but unsure of about the perks of choosing a car dealer vs. private seller? Are you unsure of about why you should choose selling a car to a dealer vs. a private seller as well, if you have a trade-in? Don’t worry, Hendrick Chevrolet Cary is here to illustrate all of the perks of working with a dealership. We’ll even cover the pros of working with a private seller, so you have the info you need to make the right decision for you! Once you’re done reading, contact us to book some test drives in Cary!

Buying from a Dealership: Pros & Cons

Advantages:

• Incredible Selection and Fair Prices: Dealerships base pricing off of average market values, so you know you’re paying what the vehicle you want is actually worth. They’ll even give you a report breaking down price factors for full transparency if you request it. Also, most people choose to sell to dealerships, so you’ll find a massive selection of used vehicles to choose from.
• Certified Pre-Owned Inventory: You’ll have access to an inventory of certified pre-owned models that are in like-new condition. These models have undergone intensive inspections to guarantee virtually new condition, come warranty-backed, and feature a long list of additional perks like roadside assistance!
• Trade-Ins: If you’re on the fence about selling your car to a dealer vs. a private seller, working with a dealership is usually the better way to go. That’s because you’ll get an offer for your car that you know is fair (based on market trends), and you won’t have to deal with the hassle of posting your car on online marketplaces and meeting up with potential buyers.

Disadvantages:

• Classic Cars: Dealerships aren’t the best places to look for classic cars, unless they specialize in selling vintage models from the brand you’re interested in.

Buying from a Private Seller: Pros & Cons

Advantages:

• Seller’s Perspective: Unlike a dealerships’ salesman, private sellers know the vehicle they’re selling well. If it has some rust on the undercarriage, they’ll likely know about it. That said, you’ll have to rely on their honesty/transparency.
• Hard-to-Find Models: If you’re looking for a 50-Model Ford, your best bet is to search through databases of private sellers, as it’s unlikely you’ll find a very specific, vintage classic like that on the lot of your typical Holly Springs dealership.

Disadvantages:

• No Protection: When buying a vehicle from a private seller, you won’t have extended warranty options. If it breaks down the day you buy it, the repair costs are still yours to pay. Buy from a dealership, and you’ll have plenty of affordable extended warranties to choose from.
• No Guarantee of Accurate Service Records: A dealership will almost always be able to provide extensive service records for the vehicle they sell. A private seller is less likely to have kept track of service documents for their vehicle.

Schedule for Some Test Drives Near Apex

Now that you’ve read about the pros and cons of buying from a dealer vs. a private seller, if you’d like the security and efficiency of working with Hendrick Chevrolet Cary, give us a call at (919) 342-8649. Our professionals can get the help you get the car you need at a competitive price! In the meantime, take a moment to explore our car buying tips for helpful reads about how to trade in a financed car and more!