These days many people prefer buying a car from a private seller instead of going to a dealer. The biggest advantage of this practice is that you can buy a vehicle for a cheaper price. One does not have to pay for administrative charges, maintenance cost, and paperwork while dealing with a private owner. Apart from this, people with bad credit face difficulty in getting a car loan from banks, but with a private seller, they can bargain, negotiate, and close a profitable deal. Apart from this, people who like imported or customized cars also prefer to approach private owners to avoid a lengthy legal process and to save some money. If you too wish to buy a vehicle from private party then you should take the following steps to ensure that the dealing goes smoothly. Steps to Buy a Car from a Private Seller Step #1 The first step of car buying process is to contact private sellers who are interested in selling their cars and ask them about their car, its make, model, years, current condition, and value estimate etc. Step #2 Now zero down on two to three vehicles that suit your budget and requirements. Call their owners and make an appointment. Step #3 During the appointment, inspect the car thoroughly and get to know the history of the car, such as its previous owners, if the car was involved in any accident, transmission papers, car insurance, and other legal documents. You may consult your lawyer to crosscheck the authenticity of the legal documents. Step #4 Do not be fooled by the physical appearance of the car. Ask the owner for a test drive. It is advisable to hire a mechanic for detailed inspection of the engine, and other essential parts. Step #5 Once you are sure that the car is in good condition, and is worth buying, then you have to start negotiating with the owner. Start with a low, yet practical offer and settle for a price that your pocket can bear. But if the owner demands too much then it is better to walk off, which is probably the best negotiating tool. Step #6 Once the negotiations are over and the deal is closed, make sure you complete all legal paperwork. You also have to think about the payment options: Buying With a Loan: Remember that paying in installments will increase the overall price of the car. But if the loan suits your financial planning and arrangements, then go for it. But only loan from a bank that charges the minimum interest rate. Most banks charge low interests for used cars loans. Also, check for the amount and time period of the loan before you sign the final document. You have to keep these things in mind if you are planning to buy a new or used car when it comes to car loans. Buying With Cash: If you are planning to buy a car with cash then you have a chance to save a lot of money. But do not pay the cash until you complete all the legal formalities. You can carry a check, or hard cash, along with your lawyer to the decided venue. Go through all the documents carefully before signing them and before paying the cash. If you are wondering how to buy a car with bad credit, then paying a private seller in cash is an ideal option for you. Otherwise many banks offer auto loans for bad credit that you may go for. Step #7 You may ask the private seller to get the car serviced, before taking its charge. You should also ask for essential car accessories, a manual, a tool kit, servicing and maintenance papers etc. You may change the car interiors once the car is yours. The above steps will ensure that you close the deal safely and purchase a car with great performance. I hope these insights into buying a car from a private seller were resourceful to you.