You're in the market to buy an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) and you're not sure where to find a cheap ATV bargain, or even what it will look like when you find it. You're not alone, in fact over the past two years I've received countless emails, forum messages and PMs from people asking me if an ATV they are interested in is a good bargain.
Step #1 - Be patient, the ONLY way to recognize a cheap price or great bargain on a used ATV is to take the time required to get a good understanding of the current market value for the particular ATV you're interested in. Different ATV brands sell at different prices from model to model and year to year.
Step #2 - Know which ATV you want to buy. Its much easier to find a bargain on an ATV when you're actively monitoring just one or two particular models, if you don't choose the type of ATV you're going to buy in advance, the ATV will choose you. Narrow down your search, be specific.
Step #3 - Join an ATV forum and ask for member feedback, in fact join several and don't be afraid to speak your mind and voice your concerns. If other members have owned a particular ATV model and know that it has specific traits you need to be aware of they'll let you know, the seller won't.
Step #4 - Take notes. Watch places that sell ATVs regularly and take note of the prices being reached, the real prices, not the asking prices. eBay Motors is a great help with this, you can sort auctions by ending soonest and filter your search to your specific model, do this for a week and watch the final prices closely. Write them down, the longer you watch the more accurate your expected price range will become.
Step #5 - Ask for what you want. Sites like Craigslist and employee bulletin boards allow you to post free messages saying that you're looking to buy a specific item. State the type of ATV you're looking for as well as the price you're willing to pay and its possible that someone contacts you with an ATV that wasn't for sale otherwise.
Step #6 - Compare, compare, compare. BEFORE you spend your money is the time to compare ATV features, pros and cons. Spend a little more time in your favorite ATV forums just reading what others think of the ATV you're interested in. A good tip here is to avoid forums dedicated to just one brand because you will only read biased reviews. ATV Forums dedicated to one brand only are better known as clubs, you want reviews, not a club.
Step #7 - Negotiate. No price is set in stone, In general I recommend knocking off 25% as your opening offer and expect the owner to not like your offer. He/she will likely begin telling you it's worth more than that, it's not your job to agree with the owner, it's your job to convince the owner you may walk away unless the price is lowered. A good method of lowering the price is by pointing out the flaws, even a perfect ATV has flaws, even if it's in mint condition you can seem saddened that it's the wrong color or has the wrong tires which will make you spend more money etc. Focus on the negative, let the owner focus on the positive and hold your ground.
Step #8 - Bring a friend when inspecting the ATV, two sets of eyes trying to find flaws is better that one. Two voices keeping the owner thinking is better than one. Two personalities for the owner to try and get a read on is better than one. Just make sure the friend doesn't wreck the sale by being too enthusiastic or worse, having him agree with the owner and not you. Don't let the friend join the seller's side because if that happens you need to run away quickly or your money will get left behind.
Step #9 - If the deal is not an in-person transaction, and being paid cash in full, consider using an escrow company like escrow.com. When a middle man handles the financial part of the bargain BOTH parties are protected to a greater degree. Escrow companies also help you make every step clear, you'll know what to expect next. When you use escrow you can also have an ATV inspected and the funds will be released only after the ATV passes inspection by a qualified mechanic. The seller is protected because the funds won't be returned to you either unless the seller confirms the ATV has been returned.
Step #10 - This final tip is one that I've seen being used more often and so i'll mention it as well but I personally feel it's a shady tactic, legal, but not my cup of tea. Have a friend make an appointment to see the ATV before you do. Let your friend get a read on the ATV owner, the ATV and perhaps see how rigid the owner is with price. Your friend can then report back to you before you inspect the ATV and you'll be better prepared to close the deal by knowing more about the seller. If your friend offers a ridiculous price, 50% off for example, the owner would likely turn it down and the friend can then ask "what's your lowest price?". You'll then know to offer slightly less than the lowest price and hold your ground.
Buying an ATV is both fun and filled with risk. Make sure the seller has the paperwork and title and remember that there are three distinct events taking place. A money negotiation, a vehicle inspection and a battle of wits to get the other party to give you a better deal.
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