There is no better resource than Craigslist to buy used cars.

Before approaching the listings for cars on sale on Craigslist, keep in mind that there may be some dubious posts as well. Here are a few things to keep in mind so that you don’t get cheated.

• Being skeptical leads to better safety. The intention of a seller is usually to sell their car as soon as possible. However, private sellers commit a majority of scams.

These sellers could be trading a stolen vehicle, a vehicle with false paperwork or even a damaged vehicle. It is vital to check these details with the seller before making a purchase.

If you have approached a seller from Craigslist, make sure to meet them at a public place to talk about the car for sale. Additionally, you should try to set up a meeting during the day. It is better to be safe than sorry.

It is vital that you understand the reasons for the sale from the seller. Check the maintenance records and other vehicle-related documents. Don’t let them get away with not showing you these documents.

Before taking the vehicle out for a test drive, get the registration and proof of insurance. Make sure that the documents carry the same details that the seller has provided. If there is a mismatch in these details, you should proceed with a lot of caution. You can even say the insurance agent requires this information. It is also important to take stock of the vehicle during the test drive. Put it through all the functions possible and check all the physical details as well. A 20 to 30-minute drive should give you enough time to do this.

If you are unsure of your knowledge of car prices, you should try to get a trusted mechanic to go along with you. This move will help in identifying any issues the car or the paperwork may have. In any case, the second set of eyes may discover more than you possibly could by yourself.

It is always advisable not to seek discounts from private sellers who are offering their car for sale on Craigslist. Even a small sum of $50 does not go down well with them. Private sellers have a lot of potential buyers, and hagglers are just not worth their time.

Most of us are in a hurry to buy our dream car, and that can lead to bad decisions. Even if you find the perfect car at the best price, give yourself some time to sleep on it.

Once you decide to buy the car, it is recommended not to pay with cash. Rather, make a bank transfer or visit the bank directly with the seller. This step would provide details of the seller that may be handy later on. The best case scenario would be if the seller provides a bill of the transaction. It is a good idea to check state laws before purchasing a car for sale on Craigslist.