Facebook marketplace is vast, and you can get almost anything you want, regardless of the specifications. This applies to cars also, and you can make a deal to buy used or new cars from private sellers or car dealerships. However, you have to be wary of scams and follow through with the process, from deciding your specifications to deciding your means of payment and insuring the car.
The steps to buying a new or used car from the Facebook marketplace are relatively easy and will entail similar processes to buying it offline. From the first step in deciding the car’s specifications to finalizing payments and meeting with the seller, each step is necessary for a successful purchase.
In this article, we’ll see the process in detail and help you get the car of your dreams.
The Facebook Marketplace
The Facebook marketplace was launched in 2016 as an e-commerce platform to give Facebook users a seamless shopping experience. The marketplace allows Facebook users to buy and sell items locally and internationally. In addition, it helps users browse services and products from private sellers and businesses with an account on Facebook.
The marketplace features include an inventory, where a car seller can display what cars they have available for sale. They can also advertise their business or items to reach a wider audience, even if the business doesn’t directly put out content on Facebook. You can explore many marketplace features as a business owner or customer.
Hence, if you want to buy a car, it’s inevitable you’ll have various options in dealers to pick from. Regardless of your car specs, you have a high possibility of getting multiple results from a simple search. With this in mind, you can proceed to get a car on Facebook in these simple steps.
How To Buy a Car on Facebook Marketplace
Step #1: Decide on the Car You Wish To Own
The first step in buying a car on Facebook’s marketplace is knowing the specs of the vehicle you want to buy. These specs include the brand, mileage, production year, price, and fuel economy. Once you know and commit to the specs, it’ll make the rest of the steps in this process much easier.
Once you’ve decided about the car, you should determine whether you want to buy the car from a private seller or a car dealer. If it’s a private dealer, you might have the opportunity to haggle prices before settling a deal. But you will need to be wary of private dealers not to get scammed.
However, with a car dealer with reviews and multiple cars, you’ll be assured you’re getting your car without falling into a scam. The only downside might be the inability to haggle prices.
Step #2: Search for the Car on Facebook Marketplace
The next step is searching for the vehicle on Facebook’s marketplace.
- The marketplace can be accessed by tapping the Marketplace icon.
- Tap “vehicles” and specify your location so the marketplace can bring you local listings.
- Next, apply specific filters to narrow your search to suit your preference.
Use the cars and trucks filter in the vehicles section before applying your other specifications. If you’re on your desktop, the filter tab will appear to your left; if you are on the app, you’ll find it at the top of the screen. You can also filter with prices, mileage, distance, and several other specs.
When you have your listings, ensure you go through reviews and ratings before you proceed. Read descriptions, look for complaints, and check through photos properly before moving to the next step.
Step #3: Contact the Private Seller or Car Dealer
Once you’re sure the car satisfies your specifications, contact the seller. Let the seller know you’re interested in asking for more information, pictures, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Also, ask for the vehicle history and possible damages if it’s a used car. A reliable seller will answer your questions comprehensively and satisfactorily.
Step #4: Registration and Insurance of the Vehicle
After the dealer has answered your questions to your satisfaction, get the insurance quotes and decide on the insurer. Seek the costs of insuring the vehicle before buying, especially if it’s a used car.
Also, find out how you can register a vehicle in your state or get it done with the dealership.
Step #5: Purchase the Vehicle
After finding out about the registration and insurance, you can proceed to make a purchase. Negotiate well till the price fits into your budget and decide on what payment method you want to use.
Once everything is settled, decide when to meet the buyer, and ensure the seller has ownership, especially if it’s a used car.
Conclusion
With these easy steps, you can own the car of your choice from the Facebook marketplace. Remember, make a thorough investigation of the dealer and car before you make a purchase.
