Maybe you are already sold on the fact that there are extraordinary bargains to be had at police vehicle auctions. Maybe all you need is just simply a good blueprint to follow which will turn all your hard work into actual auction success. If you’re strategy includes the following 4 steps, you will be well placed to achieving your goals set for these auctions.

The Inspection

This is a gift from the police department – the opportunity to inspect the ins and outs of the car. Use it!! Most auctioneers won’t actually allow you to drive the car for a ‘test run’, but you will at least be in a position to inspect the engine and look for any troubling mechanical signs.

The VI number

Most folks very easily forget about the basics. This can easily get you in a fix. Without any significant monetary outlay you’ll be able to obtain a basic report on the ‘life’ and history of the car, using its VI number. This report will give you exactly the sort of information you need to determine if you want to even buy the car at police auction

Researching the Auto’s Title

Granted the police department does do a little bit of work to confirm if there are any outstanding liens on the car. They generally don’t however do a very good job of it. It’s a very good idea to look this up by yourself as you don’t want the bank to seize the vehicle you just purchased.

Determine accurate valuation

Going into the auction without a good reasonable estimate of the valuation of the car you’re interested in would be suicide. It’s very similar to running around in a bear infested forrest, completely covered in honey. If you don’t know what the valuation of the car is you will bid till you get it – more often than not substantially more that it’s worth. Because of this, ensure that you do know the accurate valuation and DO NOT bid a single cent more on it.

With the above information you’ll generally be well prepared on the police vehicle auction day. It’s not uncommon for people to get completely caught up with the events at the auction – very true in particular with live outcry auctions. The very best advice anyone can give is to stay relaxed and stick to your strategy. Nobody usually does better than the quiet relaxed bidder who normally walks away with the winnings.