Article by Andrew Bicknell

Owning a car is falls into two general categories; People who love their cars and people who view them simply as a form of transportation from point A to point B. But there is one thing both groups will agree on and that is making sure to get as good a deal as possible on their next new car purchase. And for anyone wanting to save money on their next car purchase then a seized vehicle auction may be just what you are looking for.

So just what is a seized vehicle auction and why can you find such bargains at one?

Most of us are aware of what happens when someone fails to pay their car loan; their car gets repossessed by the bank which in turn auctions it off to recoup some of the money that is written off in the defaulted loan.

There is another side to the seized car auction and those are vehicles that have been seized through local, state, and federal law agencies. When a vehicle is seized because of criminal activity “search and seizure” laws allow these agencies to sale them at auction to the highest bidder. You can find nearly new vehicles (cars, truck, suvs, boats, motorcycles) in excellent shape because many people who are involved in criminal activities drive some rather nice cars.

Now here’s the important part. Just why are these seized vehicles auctioned off at such low prices?

It’s simply a function of supply and not enough storage space. There are literally thousands of cars, truck, suvs, and other items repossessed and seized every month. The cost of storing all these items is simply more then the seizing entities are willing to pay. So instead of paying to store these vehicles they turn them around quickly and sell them at auction, taking whatever the highest bidder is willing to pay.

The best place to find out where a seized property auction is being held near you is on the internet. Web based auction sites can provide you with a comprehensive listing of auctions happening all across the country. They will also allow you to research and review all the vehicles and other properties that are to be auctioned at that location. If you are in the market for a new car then you should give some serious consideration to learning more about how you can save money at a seized vehicle auction near you.

About the Author

For more information about saving money on repossessed and seized cars for sale near you please Click Here for Online Car Auctions.

Article by Mark Lorenzana

Auctions are a rich source of cheap pre-owned vehicles. And these vehicles come from a variety of sources: private owners looking to dispose of their cars by selling them at online auctions; insurance companies attempting to recoup their losses by selling vehicles at salvage auctions; and government auctions selling seized or forfeited vehicles.

Whether you choose to buy from an online vehicle auction or a traditional auction, the basics are the same. However, it is always a good idea to be prepared even before attempting that first bid.

Here a few tips that might prove to be useful when buying from vehicle auctions:

1. Do your homework. Know what you want to buy. You should also have a good idea of what the car is worth. If you are not familiar with cars, bring someone with you who does.

2. Don’t rush. When you arrive at the auction, immediately take a look around. Get a catalogue, walk around, and examine the vehicles. Take time to choose the vehicle that interests you, and if possible, select a couple of back-ups should you unfortunately lose the first bid.

3. Check the car. Remember to check the car’s overall exterior condition (paintwork, trim, tires) as well as its interior condition (seats and carpets) prior to buying. Most auction vehicles are sold “as is”, so take every opportunity to examine them thoroughly before fishing out your wallet.

4. Set a budget. It is important to set a limit on what you are prepared to pay. Also remember that for older cars, you should set aside some extra funds for minor repairs.

5. Be flexible. In other words, don’t be a compulsive buyer. Don’t overlook some obvious faults just because you like a vehicle’s color or you like a particular model. Larger auctions have more than 1,000 vehicles available so if you miss your first choice you have a lot more to choose from.

Purchasing vehicles from auctions is definitely a bargain especially if you know what you are looking for. But it is also a huge risk and there are a lot of scammers out there who are looking for a quick buck. It is important to take all the necessary precautions to minimize the risk of losing your money.

About the Author

Mark Lorenzana is a fulltime copywriter for IBC Japan. He has written a regular column and articles for various newspapers and moonlights as a copyeditor and freelance writer. IBC Japan specializes in exporting used cars from Japan with regional distribution centers worldwide.

10 Important Things About Repossessed (Repo) Car Auctions You Must Know !

Question: Are Repossessed Car Auctions a new thing ?

Repossessed or Repo Car Auctions have been in existence for some time. It is only since the internet has become popular, that ordinary people are finding out about them.

Question: How did it come about ?

Seized Vehicles are now a fact of life. A company may default on its Fleet lease payments; an individual may be unable to maintain monthly payments; Government Agencies may seize vehicles purchased with proceeds of crime, etc. These Organizations reclaim the vehicles then sell them to help recover the debt.

Question: Do many people know about Repossessed Car Auctions ?

Dealers have known about this lucrative source of cheap vehicles for some time. Some have formed close relationships with those organizations that repossess the vehicles and can enable a quick sale. The general public is slowly becoming aware.

Question: How do you find out about them ?

Sometimes the schedule of events are published in the newspaper, usually under the Public Notices section. Some are promoted to Licensed Dealers only. The internet is also a good source.

Question: Why don’t those that seize the vehicles offer them directly to the public ?

Those that seize vehicles are not car Dealers and do not have the infrastructure in place to handle the sales. Just the cost of storage can be very high. Auction Car Sale outlets have systems in place to handle the volumes.

Question: Do the autos come with a Warranty ?

Usually the vehicles are sold on an “As Inspected” basis. Some outlets do offer warranties or inspections for a fee.

Question: Can I take the Car for a test drive ?

The cars can be inspected prior to the auction and it is best to take someone to do this with you, if you are not qualified. They do not allow test drives but the vehicles can usually be started up.

Question: What costs are involved ?

Usually the final sale price and small registration fee, plus any warranty you may choose.

Question: Do I need to physically be there ?

Not always. A number of Repossessed Car Auction outlets provide a facility where you can bid remotely or advise the maximum you wish to go to.

Question: Why aren’t more people using Auctions to buy an auto ?

The majority of car buyers find it hard to change their buying habits. Provided you do your homework and research well you will get a great deal.

Happy Motoring..!!

More coming soon from the Auto Auctions Guy…