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I
am frequently asked if I get cars from auctions. With
one clear exception, the answer is
ABSOLUTELY
NOT!
Many
people assume that auctions are a great place to get
a car cheap. More appropriately, most auctions
are a great place to get a cheap car.
There
are typically three main types of auctions:
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"Primary" or "Manufacturers"
Auctions. Each individual manufacturer holds these
auctions. Only dealers for that particular manufacturer
are allowed to attend. The "used" cars available
here are the "cream of the crop." Usually
factory executive-driven cars and two-year-old lease
turn-ins occupy this most desirable and exclusive
of auctions. What's not sold here goes to….
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"Secondary" Auctions. Any licensed
new car dealer is allowed entry into this level. Unfortunately,
few cars of great "quality" have made it
here. What's not sold here goes to….
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Other Auctions. Wholesalers (who supply the
side-of-the-road used car lots) are the primary buyers
at these auctions. The cars cannot be driven before
bidding. This is what I picture when I hear someone
say, "I know a guy, can get you a car cheap!"
I
get, for my clients, if necessary, vehicles only
from the manufacturer auctions. Typically if a client
has a request for a specific model, I will have my contact
at the appropriate dealership look for that car when
he's at the auction. Even though these are the "cream
puffs," I make sure it is completely understood
what I will and will not accept. I will only accept
great condition, low mileage, and relatively low priced
units. No exceptions.
I
have had much success in locating great two-year-old
vehicles from these sales.
I
would not consider any other form of auctioned car.
Neither should you, unless you've got really great luck
with automobiles.
I
will always find the best car available at the time,
or wait. And, it will never come from a "questionable"
source. Ever.
Frank M. Price, Owner
803-732-1150
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