Tag Archives: repos

repossessed cars

Buying a Repo Car that Hasn’t Been Driven in a Long Time

Interested in buying a repo car? It doesn’t take much for a car to be repossessed. In most states, one default can kickstart the repossession process. After default, the creditor can repossess the car at any time and without notice. This is why there are many great repossessions on the market, you just have to be willing to look for them. 

However, not all repossessions go quickly. Extensions may be granted on the loan – unsuccessfully. Then, when the car is finally repossessed, it goes to an impound lot where it’s held for 30 days. If the owner can’t catch up on payments, the lender gets the title and can sell the repo. 

It’s possible that the car you’re looking at has been sitting for a long time. The previous owner didn’t make their payments on time, so it’s almost guaranteed that the vehicle hasn’t received maintenance. How can you safely buy a repo car that hasn’t been driven? 

Here are a few tips to help you make a smart used car purchase. 

Bring Along a Mechanic 

Before bidding on a repo, ask to inspect the vehicle. Reputable lenders will allow you to do this. If you don’t know a lot about cars, bring along someone who does, preferably a mechanic. For a couple hundred dollars, you can get the answers you need. 

Below are a couple ways a mechanic can help: 

  • Check for corrosion and frame rot. If the car was parked outside for an extended period, it will probably show frame corrosion. Repairing this will be very expensive, so it’s best to move onto a different vehicle. 
  • Make sure it runs. If the car ran fine before, it won’t need much to restart. However, if it had problems in the past, think twice about the repo. It could be an easy fix (e.g., dead battery), but it’s more likely to be something major. 

Ask Why the Car Hasn’t Been Driven

The lender may or may not have information on the vehicle. It depends on how they acquired the repo in the first place. However, it doesn’t hurt to ask questions. Sometimes, lenders can shed light on why a particular vehicle was taken away from its owners. 

Pay Attention to Signs of “Lot Rot” 

“Lot rot” is a term that describes cars that sit too long on a dealership’s lot. The same rules apply for repossessed vehicles that haven’t been driven in a long time. It’s possible that they sat on the street for months without any maintenance. 

Be familiar with the signs of lot rot such as: 

  • Rust
  • Damaged paint 
  • Brake issues
  • Battery that won’t hold a charge
  • Flat spots on tires 
  • Screeching tires 

Even though repos are far cheaper than buying new or used from a dealership, you’re still making an investment that you will be responsible for. If you can’t drive the car off the lot, it’s your problem. This is why it’s important to do your research, ask the questions you can and bring along an expert to look at the vehicle. Fortunately, plenty of repos sit for a long time and manage to start up with no problems! 

To find a repossessed car that fits your needs and budget, browse RepoFinder.com for FREE! 

buying repo from a bank

Why You Should Buy Repo Cars Directly from a Lender

When buying repossessed vehicles, you have a number of ways to purchase them, such as from a lender auction, used car dealer or reseller service. However, the best way to buy repo cars is directly from a bank or credit union. Lenders just want to recoup their losses, so they’re willing to work with buyers and give them a great deal. 

Want to browse repo cars directly from banks? Start here: repo cars for sale.

Below are a few reasons why it’s best to purchase repossessions from a bank or credit union. 

Banks are Motivated Sellers 

A car owner only needs to miss a few payments before their car is repossessed. Lenders rely on interest to make profits, so a car payment that isn’t being made is an immediate loss. If the bank can’t work with the owner to get paid, they will repossess the vehicle and recoup their losses. 

With this in mind, banks are very motivated sellers. Some will allow you to look at their repo file, which lists repo cars, trucks, ATVs, RVs and more. The lists are free, unlike resellers that often charge for this service. Also, the lender will not clean up the vehicle as the dealerships do, so you can keep your price tag to a minimum.

Financing is Easier (and Cheaper!) 

Another perk to buying a repossessed car or truck from a lender is that you can get quick financing, especially if you already have a relationship with the bank. Remember, the banks aren’t looking to make a profit. They just want to recoup their loss and move on. Banks make money by lending money, and this puts you in a great position. 

For example, banks often incentivize repo sales with longer loan terms and reduced interest rates. Additionally, there are no commissions or fees when buying directly from the bank. The transaction takes place between you and the bank – no middleman. 

The Selection is Higher Quality 

Trashed repossessions typically go straight to auction. The banks won’t waste their time with them. This means that the lender’s list of repos should be decent. In fact, it’s not uncommon to find nearly new repossessions on the list. Sometimes, brand-new car owners can’t afford their payments, and their shiny new car gets repossessed. 

Also, repossessions are not limited to cars and trucks only. You can also find a great selection of boats, airplanes, yachts, ATVs, RVs, farm equipment, airplanes and even homes! 

Buying directly from lenders is one of the biggest reasons repo cars can be a great value. Learn more here: are repo cars a good investment.

Are you ready to buy a repossession from a local bank or credit union? There’s no need to spend hours on the internet looking for repo lists. RepoFinder.com offers a directory of banks selling repossessions in all 50 states. The service is completely free for you to use – no fees, no commissions and no transaction costs. Check us out today and find a repossession that fits your needs and budget. 

how to get a repossessed truck

3 Steps to Buying a Repo Truck

Are you interested in buying a repossessed truck? 

It’s easier than you might think! 

Plus, buying a repo truck is a great way to get the vehicle you want at a price you can afford. Banks and credit unions often have lists of repossessions on their websites that include new trucks, old trucks, compact trucks, mid-to full-size trucks and more. Some of these repossessions are in great shape and ready for a new owner.

Here are three simple steps to buying a repossessed truck – or any vehicle for that matter!

Step 1: Browse the Listings.

The first step is to find a truck that meets your needs. Because it can be tiresome to search through all the local banks and credit unions in your area, use a tool like RepoFinder.com. This free tool allows you to search for banks that are selling repossessions. Choose your state and click on the bank names to start your search. 

Step 2: Make an Offer. 

Once you’ve found a repo truck, you can make an offer. Usually, the banks already have a price in mind that is based on the truck’s book value or recent appraisal. Don’t be afraid to offer less. Banks just want to get rid of repossessions and recoup their losses. 

Typically, offers are made in the form of bids. Some bids are open, where you can see what other people are offering, and other bids are closed. Open bidding is most common because this allows people to compete against each other and win the highest bid. If your offer isn’t accepted, don’t get discouraged. There are plenty of repossessed trucks that need owners! 

Step 3: Complete the Inspection.

Most lenders allow bidders to do an inspection of the vehicle. If you’re not sure what to look for, bring along someone who does. Once you buy the truck, it’s your responsibility, so you want to know what you’re getting into. 

Below you’ll find some of the things we recommend inspecting or testing. You can find more detailed information on what to look for when buying a used vehicle in this article. 

  • Heating/cooling
  • Brakes 
  • Power steering 
  • Windows and locks
  • Tires, battery and air filter 
  • Signals, brake lights, reverse lights, headlights 

Also, pay attention to signs of water damage or rust. Severe water damage can leave the truck totaled. Repairing or fixing rust is expensive and generally not a cost you’ll want to incur. 

In the end, buying a repossession is a lot like buying a truck from a dealership and a private seller. You get assistance with the financing and paperwork while have the power to negotiate. For a full list of repossessions in your area, visit RepoFinder.com today. 

repossessed vehicle great value

5 Ways to Tell You’re Getting a Good Repo

Buying a repossession is a lot like buying a used car, except it is an “as-is” purchase. There is no warranty from the dealer, so you absorb whatever problems the car has. This is why repos are hundreds to thousands of dollars less than other vehicles. 

Even though there are significant cost savings upfront, you don’t want to end up wasting your money. So, how can you determine that the repossession you’re looking at is actually a good deal? Below are five signs to look for.

  1. You’re buying a repo from a bank or credit union.

Where you buy your repo from makes a big difference. We recommend working with lenders because they have the best prices with no added fees or commissions. Plus, you can often get attractive financing offers directly from the bank. Lenders are also transparent with pricing and bidding. 

  1. You can do an inspection. 

You should always ask to see the repo before you make an offer. Again, when you work with a reputable seller, an inspection shouldn’t be a problem. If you don’t know a lot about cars, bring along someone who does. They can look over the repo and make sure it’s a good value. 

  1. The repo has a title. 

You should never buy a vehicle without the title. If a repo doesn’t have a title, there’s no telling who really owns the car. You could pay for it, and the owner could claim ownership later on. What you don’t get with a repossession is a warranty from the dealer. But, a repossession does not change the title or manufacturer warranty. 

  1. You know where it came from.

It’s not always possible to know where a repossession came from. However, if the bank can tell you some information about the vehicle, it’s in your favor. Depending on the circumstances, the lender may know the condition of the repo, a little bit about the history and the area it came from. This information, coupled with an inspection, can give you greater peace of mind. 

  1. You feel good about the purchase. 

If you feel that you’ve found the right repo car, make an offer! Don’t be afraid to negotiate or offer a lower price, especially if you want financing from the bank. On the other hand, if you don’t feel confident, you should wait. There are tons of repossessions, with new ones being listed daily. There is no reason to buy something you’re unsure of. 

It is possible to find a clean repossession in good working condition at a great value. For a convenient list of banks and credit unions with repo lists in your area, visit RepoFinder.com today.