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When buying from private parties talk to the seller direct, before sending any money.
Not their sister, brother, friend, neighbor, you get the point.
A lot of people receive products that are damaged, do not fit, do not work, are missing parts, etc, simply because they afraid to ask the needed questions. Maybe it's the excitement of finding a deal? Who knows, but it's important. (Write your questions out before calling is a good idea, it saves having to call back for that one thing we always forget to ask) During the conversation you can usually tell if they are trying to hide something. Ask what shape it's in, any damage? Missing parts? Ever been installed and used? Why are you selling it? If there’s a problem with it, can I return it? (Usually it’s sold as-is, but it’s fun to hear their response) This will give you an idea of the type of person you’re dealing with. (Do they sound trustworthy?) If they shy away from answering your questions or say ‘I don’t know†even get defensive, then be aware.
If you feel good about it, and it's worth the chance, you’re the buyer.
I have been amazed to find that most people are honest. Knock on wood.
When sending a check I always get their name, address, and of course the phone number I called. In case of a problem (They also have to trust that your check will cash)
(Bad check service charges are hard to recoup) So they have to trust you too.
But…. It’s always buyer Beware.
Remember: Getting satisfaction for a deal gone badly is somewhat easier from an internet/retail store when using a charge card than a private party when paying by check.
By the time you find out there’s a problem, your check has already been cashed.
I want to trust everybody, but I keep that in mind when buying used. I also make sure the used parts are really worth the savings over buying new. Remember, there cheaper, but there used.
Good Luck
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