4 Tips for Purchasing a Car Out of State

When you’re looking to get a deal on a car, sometimes you have to get out of your comfort zone.

Purchasing a car out of state might sound like a hassle, but it’s actually one of the only ways to get your dream car. If you’ve never done it before, you might feel a little lost in terms of how to go about doing it without getting scammed or getting a car that doesn’t stack up. But, that’s why you’ve got us.

In this post, we’re going to give you some tips on buying a car in a different state so you don’t end up spending too much on a lemon. Follow these and you’ll be riding in style in no time.

1. Do the Hard Stuff First

Buying a car from a different state is always a bit more complicated, logistically speaking. There are things that you have to take into account that you never have to think of when you buy one in-state. 

For instance, cheaper sales tax may be why you’re buying out of state, but you always pay sales tax in the state that you register the car in. You may also have to look into temporary registration if you’re planning on driving the car back yourself. If you’re buying used, look into emission requirements in your state versus the state you buy in.

Make sure you have the funds ready before you get in over your head. Whether you’re getting it from a car accident settlement loan or you’ve been saving up for a while, it’s best to have it all up-front.

2. Ask For Lots of Information

When you find a good deal, you’ve got to contact the seller and get as much information as possible. You need to know that everything from the engine to the transmission is in good working order.

Also, make sure to get lots of detailed photos. The last thing that you want is to agree on a price only to find out that the car isn’t up to snuff when you get there. The more thorough the communications between you and the seller are, the better.

3. Get a Vehicle History Report

To be completely safe, it’s a good idea to pay for a vehicle history report. There are lots of these services online and they can help you ensure that the vehicle is clean and without any major repairs or accidents.

A trustworthy seller won’t have any issues with you doing this, but it might be helpful to give a deposit so they hold the vehicle for you.

4. Getting the Car Back

Once you’ve purchased the vehicle, you have to figure out how to get it back. Here are a few of your best options:

  • Have a friend drive with you to get the vehicle so you can drive it back.
  • Fly out to wherever the vehicle is and drive it back.
  • Have it shipped back to you.

Taking these logistics into account ahead of time will help you decide whether or not a car is worth purchasing.

Is Purchasing a Car Out of State Good For You?

Now that you understand some of the things involved with purchasing a car out of state, you can decide whether or not it’s the best move for you. You always have to weigh the cost and the benefit before deciding to buy, but with so many online marketplaces these days, purchasing a car from afar has never been easier.

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