Government auto auctions are one of the best places to find any type of vehicle without worrying about financing or spending heavily on a car. You will discover that there are many different types of cars available, including SUVs, sports cars, SUVs, and trucks. The amount you pay is entirely in your control, allowing you to have what you want at a price that fits your budget.
What do I need to know?
First of all, not every car you find at government auto auctions will be in perfect condition. In fact, there are some cars that need a major repair, but in most cases you will be able to spot these cars quickly and easily. If you have questions about a car’s engine or transmission, or think the car has had tons of body work, move on. Since you can’t actually test drive the car, it’s better to be safe than buy a car you won’t be happy with later.
Second, always look for the green signal when buying from government auto auctions. At many auctions, someone will give a red, yellow, or green signal while the car is being bid on. These signs have to do with the title of the car. If the sign is red then you don’t want the hassle of dealing with a car that doesn’t have a title, but if the sign is green then rest assured the title is ready and waiting. Not all auctions have these signs, but there should be some indication of the condition of the title. If not, don’t be afraid to ask about it.
What do I have to pay?
When you attend government auto auctions, the price you’ll want to pay will depend on the condition of the car, the mileage on the car, and the make and model of the car. Newer cars traditionally sell for more, largely because these cars are more in demand than older models. It’s perfectly fine to buy a car that’s three to five years old if that’s what’s in your budget. With older cars, such as seven to ten years old, be sure to thoroughly check the car for problems before bidding.
In the end, however, the amount you’re willing to pay is entirely your choice. There are some vintage cars that are worth much more than their blue book value and will sell for what people are willing to pay rather than retail value. Other cars, especially stock models, will cost much less than the blue book amount.
If you are on a budget, it will be much easier to choose a car at government auto auctions. You may be able to get a new car for just a few hundred dollars if there are no other bidders, although a price tag of several thousand is more common for newer car models.
