Auction: How To Buy A Used Car At

If the bidding passes your pre-set limit by even $100, stop. There will always be another car. 5. Winning and Driving Home If the hammer falls and you're the winner, congratulations!

A musty smell inside almost always means water damage or mold, which is a nightmare for electrical systems. 4. Set a "Hard" Ceiling how to buy a used car at auction

Remember that the hammer price isn't the final price. You will owe a Buyer’s Premium (usually 5–15%), taxes, registration fees, and likely some immediate repairs. If the bidding passes your pre-set limit by even $100, stop

The "win" happens before the bidding starts. Most auction houses post their (the inventory) a few days in advance. Winning and Driving Home If the hammer falls

Be prepared to pay a deposit immediately (often in cash or certified check) and the balance within 24–48 hours.

Open to everyone. These often feature bank repossessions , government fleet vehicles , or police impounds .

Once you’re on the lot, it’s time to get your hands dirty. Since you usually can’t test drive the cars, you have to be a detective: