Buying from a Dealer vs. Private Seller

Savvy shoppers from Minneapolis to Maple Grove know that the pre-owned car market offers incredible value, but what’s the best way to find the car of your dreams? Many drivers wrestle with buying from a dealer vs. a private seller, and there are plenty of pros and cons to both. However, we think that the convenience and ease of buying from a dealer are hard to beat!

Car Dealer vs. Private Seller: Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Owner’s Perspective: Comparing the car dealer vs. private seller, a private owner will generally have a much longer history with the car. That means they’ll know the ins and outs of the vehicle – assuming they are willing to be honest with you.
• Niche Market: If you’re looking for something specific, the private market can be a good place to look. Rare and historic vehicles are not as common at dealerships.

Cons:

• No Coverage/Protection: Private vehicles usually do not include warranty coverage. So if the car breaks down the day of your sale, you’re responsible for footing the entire bill.
• Iffy-at-Best Service History: Your seller may or may not keep notes on the service history of the vehicle, which means there might be underlying issues that pop up in the future.

Buying from a Dealership: Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Competitive Prices/Wide Selection: Dealerships deal with a much higher volume of cars and they use Minnetonka market value to get competitive prices. That means there’s greater room for negotiation, and a better deal for you.
• Service & Parts Centers: A dealership has many resources at its disposal, including full service and parts departments to keep your vehicle in top shape for years to come.
• Certified Pre-Owned Inventory: Comparing a car dealer vs. a private seller, you’ll only find certified pre-owned models at dealerships. These pre-owned models offer warranty coverage, roadside assistance, special CPO financing, and more.
• Trade-Ins: If you’re planning to sell your old car, there’s no better choice than a dealership. You can trade in your old car to reduce the price of your new car on the spot.

Cons:

• Financing: Some drivers feel that financing a car is the less efficient way to make a purchase, but you have options at the dealership. You can pay in cash just like you would with a private seller, but you can also finance a car as an alternative.

Find Your Next Vehicle at Cornerstone Plymouth

Now that you know the difference between buying from a dealer vs. a private seller, find out what Cornerstone Plymouth has to offer you in Plymouth. Contact us with your questions or stop by our showroom to take a few test drives today.