Here we are again. It’s starting to feel like spring in many parts of the country and collector cars and trucks that have been in storage all winter will soon be hitting the road. Sellers get their cars ready to show. Buyers begin to get serious in their search for a new ride. Here at the Auto Appraisal Group, we see a growing interest as demand for our independent prepurchase inspection service increases nationwide.
Buyer Beware! One of the more blatant developments in recent years is the high percentage of car ads that appear to have been “photo-shopped”. There has always been a desire to present a car in its best light but the use of computer programs to enhance the appearance of vehicles in ads is widespread. Our agents take dozens of photos during their inspection but when compared to the photos presented in the ad, some have questioned if it is the same vehicle.
As you read the vehicle’s advertisement look for descriptive words as clues to the overall condition of the vehicle. Terms like excellent, new, best one known to exist, frame-off restoration, and numbers matching all imply a vehicle worthy of a top asking price. But what is it really worth? Ask for documentation of these descriptions to pre-qualify vehicles during your initial inquiry. Can they answer questions about who, what, when & where? Correctness and originality are still the most highly sought-after properties in vehicles and may prove to be the best investments over time. Cars that have been properly restored can be a good value because the labor has already been paid for.
Where do you find the best cars? Look within your local car clubs first. Are you a mechanic or do you know of a good one in your area? Be sure you know who your mechanic will be before you buy an old car. What’s the best thing you can do before you close the deal? Let us assist you with a pre-purchase inspection. You may talk with our certified agent before and after the inspection so he can address your concerns and answer your questions. After you have reviewed the condition report and photos taken during the inspection, you then talk with us about the market value based upon the current classic and collector car market. We can help you buy or walk away with confidence that you’ve made the best decision. We look forward to assisting you with all your prepurchase inspection needs.
Happy Motoring! Larry Batton 
