Part III:  Featured Article

Government Car Auctions Guide

Government Car Auctions Guide   by Thara Washington

I know what you're thinking; why in the heck would I buy a car from the government it's probably been through hell- bullets and blood and who knows what else? But, that's not at all the case. These vehicles are purchased new, by the United States General Services Administration (G.S.A), and are leased to other government agencies. It's when the leases are up that they are put up for auction and sold.

In fact, these vehicles are usually purchased by car dealerships and sold to you for a lot more. Buying cars from a government auction is a great way to get a car at a fraction of the price and pay a lot less than you would have through the regular avenues. When you buy your car from the government, instead of the car dealerships, you are essentially cutting out the middle man.

These vehicles are never more than three years old and are kept in great condition and when they are to be auctioned they are cleaned, detailed and ready to drive. None of the vehicles that are auctioned are used by the military and have not been repossessed.

Government auctioned vehicles have various features and come in the latest styles and colors. Their other features include power steering, power windows, air conditioning, and AM/FM cassette deck and are excellently maintained.

Now that I've sold you on the idea, of buying a vehicle in a government auction, here is your guide.

You can the visit the G.S.A's site to find out about any upcoming government car auctions, which give you a current list of vehicles for sale, their locations, the times of auctions, and complete description of the bidding and buying process. You can also call the local G.S.A auction houses and ask when the next auction is.

When you arrive at the auction house register for the sale, and use the inventory list to inspect vehicles on the lot. You are allowed to turn on the engine, but test-driving is not permitted.

Inspecting the car

Be sure to properly inspect the cars that you're interested in so you can make a better choice. Here's how;

The Interior 1. All seatbelts should adjust and close properly.

2. The driver seat and all passenger seats should be comfortable and not excessively worn or ripped.

3. Power locks, side view mirror controls and other powered mechanisms should work correctly.

4. The horn should be in working order, easily accessible, and loud enough to be clearly heard.

6. All exterior (and interior lights) should function correctly.

The Engine 1. There must be no cracks or rust around the engine area

2. Oil Dipstick; must not be excessively dirty.

3. If you are allowed start the car and listen to the car. If it starts easily it's a good buy.

There are other things in the car that you need to check, like the exterior of the car (has it had a recent paint job?).

All this is to ensure you spend wisely and make a wise choice when you buy a vehicle and that you get the most out of this opportunity.

You have all the facts and how to's, so there shouldn't be anymore dark clouds of doubt in you mind but if you are still a bit skeptical take a look at this... http://www.expertsecretspublishing.com/governmentauctions.html
 

About the Author

Thara is both a fitness enthusiast and a research/review expert who runs a few fitness websites as well as the very popular www.ultimatelowcarbrecipes.com