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BUYING TIPS
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Page 69
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If you buy from a franchised dealer, don't get sucked into a contract that looks nice on paper, but doesn't suit you financially. Have a budget and stick to it. In practice, you are unlikely to feel any pressure from an affiliated dealer but, as a business-orientated individual, you need to get the arrangement you want. Always haggle, and remember that VAT will be added.
Make the most of the aftersales and 24/7 servicing on offer. And remember to make sure the site is within easy reach of your yard; otherwise getting the vehicle there for servicing and repairs could be a struggle.
Alternatively, you could source servicing, repair and maintenance from a local dealer or workshop. Many approved dealers like you to sign up at their showroom, as it guarantees your custom in the future, but you must do what's best for your own long-term set-up.
If the dealer doesn't have what you want, or the price is too high, shop around. Independents will have good-quality stock and offer the same products— only cheaper, as the buck (and profit-making process) stops with them. Many will have derived from family set-ups or old haulage companies and will know the trade inside out.
You'll know as soon as you're on site whether the offer is serious or not. Take your chosen vehicle for a spin, check the V5, check the mileage is genuine and find out the vehicle's working and service history. If it looks as if it's done all its mileage uphill steer clear. And if you want a big cab with a big engine, • independents are the way to go. Many specialise on a specific sector —find yourself a good independent, and you won't go far wrong.
At auction, do your research beforehand. Decide on budget and stick to it. Auction houses offer a good range from late-year, tidy examples to old and knackered motors seeing out the end of their days. But as you're buying trade rather than retail, there are savings to be made. If you're sure bidding is the way to go, visit as many auctions as possible and learn the process before joining in.
The reserve price is worth bearing in mind because, even if you place the highest bid, it may not be enough to secure the deal if it doesn't meet the seller's minimum purchase price, A good auctioneer will tell you during the bidding lithe reserve price has been met.
At auction, the vehicle is bought as seen. However, you can kick the tyres and hear the driver rev the guts out of the drivel inc before it goes under the hammer. There are bargains to be had, but experienced punters with more financial clout will be looking for the same deals. The V5 should be available with the vehicle, although most won't have an MoT. So take trade plates so that if you win, you can get the motor home.
If you're confident, you can bid online, but you'll need to register with the auction house first. The process is simple and allows you to bid competitively. At the moment, this facility is available only through selected sites, but it could save you a round trip and a day's business. Trust is the key for this method of buying.