Tag Archives: online car shopping

man in new car

Top Useless Features You Don’t Need in a Car (and Certainly Shouldn’t Pay More For!)

When shopping for new and used cars online, it’s easy to get carried away with the cool features that are available in today’s models. However, some of these features are completely useless and not worth paying for. To ensure you keep your eyes focused on the best vehicles for your needs and budget, here are some meaningless features you don’t need to pay extra for. 

Rear Seat Entertainment Systems 

If you have kids, rear seat entertainment systems can sound like a blessing. And in the 1990s and early 2000s, they were. However, with the advent of tablets, smartphones and WiFi hotspots, these systems are almost irrelevant. If the car you’re looking at comes with this system, that’s great. Maybe you’ll use it, maybe you won’t. But it’s not worth paying extra for. 

Social Media Integration 

Our society has grown accustomed to communicating through social media apps like Facebook and Instagram. To tap into this interest, car companies have rolled out social media integration. At first glance, this would appear to be useful and worth paying extra for, but it’s not. Using social media, even through voice activation, falls under distracted driving. Leave social media for off the road. 

Spare Tire 

More car manufacturers are getting rid of the classic spare tire because it reduces weight and improves fuel economy. So don’t worry about whether or not the car you’re interested in comes with one. You really don’t need it. Today’s vehicles have tire pressure monitoring systems that let you know when your tire is low on air and needs to be fixed or replaced. If your tire blows out, you’ll need to call for a tow. 

Gesture Control Audio 

In theory, an infotainment system that works with your hand gestures sounds great. But you can probably do without this added expense. Right now, these systems aren’t that accurate at detecting hand gestures, which means they could misinterpret your signals and crank up the music when you want it lower. For now, stick with the reliable choice – the press of a button. 

In-Car Voice Control

Surprisingly, voice activated in-car systems have been around for nearly two decades. And they have gotten increasingly better over the years. However, they’re far from perfect and often misinterpret what was said. And, these voice control systems can’t do everything, so it’s possible that what you ask for will be a functional dead end.

Third Row Seats in Compact Cars 

Having a third row is highly desirable for large families, but don’t be automatically swayed by a compact crossover with third-row seating. These seats are so small and compact, usually only small children can fit in them. Even then, you’ll probably have to shift the second row forward, compromising their comfort. If you need three rows, we recommend going for a larger SUV. 

Shopping for a new vehicle? Check out the inventory from RepoFinder. We have a great selection of repossessed cars, trucks, SUVs and recreational vehicles at low prices. Many are close to new, in good condition and packed with added features you’ll find useful. 

shipping a car

How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car?

People use the internet to shop for all types of purchases – including cars! But what happens when you find a vehicle that you love and it’s out of state? You’ll have to ship it to your home. 

Shopping online for cars is practical and convenient, especially during a pandemic. It also opens you up to a wider variety of vehicles, which is helpful if you have a limited budget or are looking for something specific. 

RepoFinder.com has a huge inventory of repossessed cars, trucks, SUVs and recreational vehicles. You can easily shop for repos in your area, but it’s also possible that you’ll find your dream car in another state. If this is the case, here’s everything you need to know about shipping a car to your home. 

Find a Car Shipping Service 

The first step is to find a service that ships cars to your location. A few examples include AmeriFreight, Bargain Auto Transport and Easy Auto Ship. Each one is slightly different and offers various pros and cons, so do your homework and request a few quotes. You can then determine the best fit for your needs and budget. 

Choose Your Delivery Plan 

Once you’ve chosen a delivery service, plan for when to have your car delivered. Many auto delivery services have various plans to choose from based on when you need the car delivered. As long as you give enough notice, you should be able to plan the day your vehicle arrives. 

Most carriers will offer door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal shipping. With door-to-door shipping, your vehicle is delivered curbside. This is the most convenient option for many buyers, though it is more expensive. With terminal-to-terminal shipping, both you and the seller will have to do some extra driving, but it’s cheaper. 

Your shipping carrier should also have adequate insurance in case anything happens. And they should be able to handle most things for you – it’s not your job to manage the logistics. The good news is that buying a used or repo vehicle means you can go with an open transport which is cheaper. 

Signing for Delivery

When your repo arrives at the destination, look it over before signing anything. Take your time with this step, as this is your only opportunity to note damages or discrepancies with the car. If anything is amiss, note it on the bill of lading. This way, you can take it up with the seller later. Once the paperwork is signed, you get the keys to your new car! 

What’s the Cost for Shipping a Car? 

Shipping a car to another state costs an average of $500 to $1,500 depending on the distance of the delivery, the type and size of the vehicle, how the vehicle will be shipped and other factors. To save money, opt for open transport, be flexible with delivery times and have your repo shipped to a terminal. 

To start browsing for repossessed vehicles that fit your needs and budget, visit RepoFinder.com today. If you can’t find what you like in your location, it may be possible to ship a car your way! 

online car shopping

Coronavirus and Cars: Here’s What You Need to Know

It’s clear that coronavirus isn’t going away any time soon, so if you’re in the market for a new vehicle, you’ll have to take this into consideration. As long as you are secure in your job and can afford a new payment, now is a great time to purchase a vehicle. Used cars are most popular because they’re cheaper than new cars, which leads to smaller, more affordable loans that are less likely to put you underwater. 

Here’s everything you need to know about coronavirus and car shopping in 2020. 

Coronavirus and Car Interest Rates 

Auto loan interest rates are low right now to encourage lending, boost consumer spending and support the economy. How low? The Federal Reserve made moves back in March to reduce interest rates to zero. 

You typically won’t find 0% interest on a used car, but interest rates are still low. Plus, car shoppers are showing that they’re not afraid to take on longer loans as long as they can afford the payments and get the vehicle they want. In 2019, the average term length was 69 months for new cars and 65 months for used cars. 

Coronavirus and Car Shortages 

You can expect some shortages of vehicles sold in America due to supply chain disruptions and plant closures. This hasn’t been a significant problem because people are spending less time in the showrooms, leading to a decreased demand for vehicles. But for those looking for specific features, there may be more limited options. 

Full-size pickup trucks have remained strong during the pandemic. This is why you can expect fewer incentives and price drops on these vehicles as they’re in demand and people are willing to pay for them. Of course, you can always check out repossessed pickup trucks for a great deal! 

Coronavirus and Car Shopping 

There are many ways to protect yourself from the coronavirus when shopping for a used vehicle. Thankfully you can do most things on the internet. And if you shop with an online car site like RepoFinder.com, you can complete the whole process online! We have a large inventory of repossessed cars, trucks and SUVs available to the public. 

If you do see a car in person, be sure to disinfect the parts of the vehicle you’ll be touching, don’t touch your face, wash your hands after and don’t shake on the deal. Also take care of financing in advance so that you spend less time signing papers. 

Because all vehicles listed on RepoFinder.com are repossessions, you can apply for financing in advance. These vehicles are being sold by banks and credit unions that are also more willing to work with you on attractive financing. They are motivated sellers after all!  

If you’re looking for an affordable used car that you can purchase online, visit RepoFinder.com today! 

vehicles at an auction

4 Things to Know When Buying a Used Car at an Auction

Auto auctions allow buyers to purchase used vehicles through a bidding process. This usually ends up being a lot less than what a dealership would charge. Not all auctions are open to the public, but some are. To find auctions in your area, you’ll have to do some research. Auctions are available both in-person and online, allowing you to choose the method of shopping you prefer. 

While auto auctions can turn up a great deal, there’s also the risk of buying a beater car. Below are four things to know about buying a used or repossessed car at an auction. 

1. Pick the Right Auction 

Both brick-and-mortar and online auctions are available. Some say that the best deals can be found in person, though shopping online is more convenient. It really depends on how you prefer to shop. You can usually shop at auctions for free, but prepare to pay some type of fee to make a bid whether it’s online or in person. 

Another thing to watch for is public vs dealer auctions. Public or open auctions are available to the public. Dealer auctions are only open to those who hold a dealer’s license. Unless you work at a dealership, you probably don’t have a dealer’s license.

2. Determine Your Risk 

Many people use the “stoplight system” when shopping at auctions. This system helps buyers assess their risk and compare it to the price of the vehicle. 

  • A “green light” means that the vehicle is free from any known defects. Arbitration may be possible if severe problems turn up. 
  • A “yellow light” indicates that the car has some issues. However, arbitration is not an option. 
  • A “red light” is sold as-is. Repossessions are essentially “red light” cars because you purchase them in their current condition. 

3. Know How to Bid 

It’s easy to cave and bid more than you should on a car you really want, especially if there is other interest available. But there are many factors that will influence whether or not you get the car, so only bid what you are comfortable paying. You also want to leave money in your budget to take care of any problems that turn up. 

To help with this, it’s best to bring along someone who knows about cars. They can help determine the best bid to make, preventing you from over-bidding on cars that aren’t worth it and under-bidding on those that are a great deal. 

4. Inspect the Vehicle 

Cars sold at auctions are rarely available for test drive. So, you’ll have to rely on your knowledge to assess its condition and value. There are a number of resources you can use online such as Kelley Blue Book, CarConsumers.org and Nada Values. These guides can give you the confidence you need to identify the best vehicles and make an accurate but reasonable bid. 

RepoFinder has a great selection of repossessed cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles and recreational vehicles. View our database for free and find repos in your area. If you want more features, consider upgrading your account to RepoFinder Pro for just $4.95 a month – cancel anytime!

shopping for cars online

Advantages and Disadvantages of Shopping for Used Cars Online

This entry was posted in Repo Cars and tagged , , on by .

Online shopping is convenient, especially when you’re buying essential products like shampoo, conditioner and laundry detergent. But when you’re spending big money, you have to be more careful about what you buy. 

There are pros and cons to shopping for used cars online. You get the convenience of shopping at home (which is especially helpful during a pandemic!) and comparing different features and prices. But, you don’t have a salesperson or test drive to lead the way. 

As you consider shopping for a used car online, here are the advantages and disadvantages to be aware of. Fortunately, you can make your online car shopping experience positive by being an informed consumer. 

Advantages of Online Car Shopping 

Many people have great experiences with online car shopping, but it’s important to do your homework. Here are some of the biggest benefits to expect when you buy a used car from the internet: 

  • No need to work with a car salesman or haggle for prices 
  • Compare hundreds of vehicles at once – you’re not limited to what’s on the car lot 
  • No risk of being upsold like you could at a dealership 
  • Enjoy a low-stress shopping experience from your home 
  • Research the vehicles on your list 
  • Take your time making a decision – you won’t face any pressure 
  • Apply for financing online through different carriers 

Disadvantages of Shopping for Cars Online 

Even though browsing used cars online is convenient and practical, there are some things to be aware of:

  • Unable to test drive the vehicle (at least at the moment)
  • Buying a repossession means you’re buying “as-is,” so you won’t have protection if something goes wrong 
  • No options for leasing the vehicle 
  • If the car is in a different state, it will be harder to see

Why More People are Buying their Cars Online 

Many people feel taken advantage of when they visit a dealership, and this pressure can lead to buyer’s remorse. Shopping from home is convenient and makes sense for people who don’t like the high-stress environment of a dealership. 

When you shop RepoFinder’s inventory, you can view the vehicles that fit your wants and needs, explore their condition and make an offer. You don’t have to leave home to do this, and you can enjoy a user-friendly platform that allows you to work directly with the banks and credit unions. Because it’s just you and the seller, you have the power to negotiate an even lower price. 

We always recommend doing an inspection before signing anything. Bring along someone who knows cars so that you can get an objective opinion. Otherwise, buying a used car online can be a great experience that allows you to purchase a vehicle you won’t regret later on! 

online car shopping

Avoid These 7 Mistakes When Buying a New Car

This entry was posted in Repo Cars and tagged , , , on by .

It’s easy to make mistakes when buying a car. This is an exciting adventure for most people, but it also means that emotions can get in the way of making a rational decision. To avoid overpaying hundreds or thousands of dollars, here are some common mistakes you’ll want to steer clear of. Don’t let the initial excitement of shopping for a car turn into buyer remorse later on. 

Mistake #1. Limiting your selection.

While it’s always good to define what you are looking for in a car, it’s best to keep your options open in terms of manufacturers and models. If you fixate on a particular model, you could miss out on other vehicles that will meet your needs and budget. 

Mistake #2. Skipping the test drive or inspection. 

A lot of used cars look good on paper but don’t translate this way in person. This is especially crucial if you’re shopping for repos online and relying on the pictures. Dealerships usually let their customers test drive their vehicles, but not all banks and credit unions do. If you’re buying a repo, at the very least, have an inspection done. 

Mistake #3. Thinking about financing at the last minute. 

Don’t wait until you’re talking with the seller to think about financing. Do your homework and research your financing options. Educate yourself on the latest interest rates and what you’re most likely to pay. This will help you calculate your monthly payments too. 

Mistake #4. Not researching the value of the car. 

Before you settle on a car, we recommend researching the value of the cars you’re interested in. Why? Because this will tell you what you’re likely to get if you trade in the car or sell it to a new owner. If you’re willing to put in the extra work, you can often get more by selling the vehicle yourself. 

Mistake #5. Shopping at just one dealership. 

It pays to shop around. Visit at least 2-3 dealerships either online or in person. View their inventory, ask for quotes and compare deals. When looking at repo inventory on RepoFinder.com, you can “shop” with different sellers. Simply click on your state and a list of banks and credit unions will turn up. 

Mistake #6. Buying from someone you don’t trust. 

A vehicle is a big purchase. Never buy one from someone you don’t trust. If anyone makes you feel uneasy or can’t answer your questions about the car, you don’t need to buy from them. Choose a different seller who is honest, transparent and helpful with your questions. 

Mistake #7. Not considering repossessed vehicles. 

When shopping for used cars, it makes sense to check out the repo inventory from RepoFinder.com. Our inventory contains a wide selection of cars, trucks, SUVs, etc. that have been repossessed from their owners. Many are in great condition and being sold at highly discounted prices. 

As long as you avoid these seven mistakes, do your homework and keep a level-head, you should end up with a vehicle that you feel good about!

man shopping for cars online

Tips for Online Car Shopping During Coronavirus

Car dealerships remain open during the COVID-19 pandemic because they are considered essential services. If your car tanks, you’ll need a new one after all. However, the pandemic is changing the way people shop for vehicles. Rather than coming into the showroom and being in close contact with others (car salespeople, financing department), you can shop for vehicles online. 

If you’re thinking about buying a new car during the pandemic, there are some things you should know. By following the tips below, you can ensure a smooth and successful online transaction whether you’re buying a brand new vehicle or a used repossession. 

Do Your Research 

Research is key when buying a vehicle online. You don’t have someone to show you the ropes and go over the available features, so you’ll have to do this yourself. Most people don’t mind, as it allows them to browse for vehicles at their leisure. If you’re shopping for a repossessed car or truck, keep your expectations realistic. Know what you can afford and the types of vehicles available in your price range. 

Decide Where You’ll Buy From 

Most dealerships have a good selection of inventory online, but they’re not the only ones that sell cars and trucks. You can also go with an online car site that sells all types of vehicles at different price points. Or, you can shop with an online auction site that allows you to bid on the vehicles you want. In addition to cars, RepoFinder.com has pickup trucks, motorcycles, SUVs, RVs, ATVs, boats and even small aircraft. 

Consider the Test Drive 

The one downfall to shopping for cars online is that you can’t test drive them all like you could at a dealership. In fact, you might not be able to take a test drive at all! Not all online car services are accommodating with this type of stuff, so you’ll need to be flexible. Your best bet is to do your research and look for virtual tools that allow you to “drive” and explore the vehicle of your choice. 

Get Used Cars Independently Inspected

Because test drives aren’t always available when shopping online, we recommend getting an independent inspection. When shopping for repossessions, for example, you’ll usually have the chance to inspect the vehicle before signing anything. Bring along someone who knows cars, and if the vehicle is far from home, hire someone local to do a quick inspection. 

Decide How You’ll Get the Car 

Dealerships often deliver vehicles right to your doorstep for a fee. However, other services expect you to come and pick up the car. In this case, you’ll need to coordinate the details. Often times, two people will come down together in one car and then drive both vehicles back home. 

RepoFinder offers a full list of banks and credit unions that are selling repossessed cars, trucks and recreational vehicles. You can do everything online, from viewing the pictures to making a bid. Visit us today and enjoy a safe, convenient way to shop for affordable repossessions in good condition.