How to buy an Antique Car – Easy steps

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How to buy an antique car.

1. Decide what you are willing to pay –

  • – Discuss it with professionals who are familiar with the make and model of vehicle.
  • – Study the market via the Internet’s classified ads.
  • – Make a list of the criteria and approximate value for vehicles you may find in ‘Excellent/Show’, ‘Good/Drivable’ and ‘Poor/Project’ condition, based on your level of expertise and needs.
  • – Find some suitable vehicles, for sale or not, and discuss their value with the owners.
  • – Verify your assumptions by paying a qualified appraiser for advice.
  • – Consider the long term costs of insurance and replacement parts

 

2. Have a plan in mind for the inspection –

  • – Put together a small tool kit with a flash light, tire gauge, pliers, screwdrivers, adjustable wrench, rags, etc.
  • – Hire a professional mechanic to evaluate the engine and drive train.
  • – Take along a copy of our Vehicle Inspection and Test Drive Checklist to assure that you do not overlook anything.
  • – Take a camera with you and take lots of pictures.

 

3. Make a list of your goals for the first visit, such as: –

  • – Find out the asking price.
  • – Determine how firm the price is.
  • – Get a list of all previous owners.
  • – Copy down everything on the manufacturer’s name plate, particularly the VIN (Vehicle Registration Number).
  • – Make a list of people and companies that are familiar with the vehicle according to the seller.
  • – Make a list of awards and notable events the seller mentions.
  • – Establish acceptable forms of payment.
  • – Inspect the vehicle inside and out and test drive it using our checklist to assure thoroughness.
  • – Take lots of pictures for future reference.
  • – Schedule times for your mechanic and/or appraiser to complete their inspections, if necessary.

 

Think about the purchase for at least 24 hours –
no matter how good the deal appears to be.

 

4. Go home and evaluate the information.

  • – Talk to the list of contacts you developed.
  • – Verify the list of awards and notable events.
  • – Discuss concerns with professionals, members of local car clubs, or other experienced people.
  • – Purchase a vehicle history report to verify the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and assure that it was not in any accidents.
  • – Consider your checklist of physical and mechanical issues.
  • – Evaluate the reports from your mechanic and appraiser.
  • – Verify that the estimated value plus the estimated cost of repairs is within your budget.

 

5. If you decide to make an offer – how to buy an antique car

  • – Determine the ‘ideal’ price (true value), a starting price and your maximum limit.
  • – Acquire all necessary forms from your state Department of Motor Vehicles.
  • – Notify your title and vehicle insurance agents of the pending purchase.
  • – Notify your transportation company.
  • – Verify that your lender is ready to participate and arrange for an acceptable form of payment.

 

6. Make the deal –

  • – Set up an appointment for a time when there will be no rush or interruptions.
  • – Share the results of your research, inspections and appraisal with the seller.
  • – Offer your ‘starting’ price.
  • – Negotiate up to your limit.

 

7. Make plans for delivery –

  • – Do not make full payment until all documents are signed and you are ready to take possession.
  • – Do not take the vehicle until your insurance company has been notified.
  • – If you plan to have the vehicle shipped, be there to watch the loading and verify that they are bonded and insured.
  • Use a reputable Car shipper like Auto transportersonline.com . Call today 866 556-6468 for a free quote or an overview of how the business works.
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