Buying a car from an individual or from a local car dealer is one tedious task if the objective is to purchase a second car that is still in good running condition.  A buyer would never trade his hard-earned money with just a complete wasted used car.  Whether new or used, when buying a car, it should be treated with the same importance and value. 

There are things to take into consideration before buying the car and these are:

1. Educate yourself as a consumer
2. Prepare a list of your needs.  Prioritize between the necessities and the wants.
3. Determine the budget and the kind of car that would best fit.
4. Make a selection by models and types.  Narrowing them will be helpful.
5. Research both online and offline by dealers.
6. Know the value of the second hand car in the market.
7. Research the Vehicle Identification Numbers and history.
8. Take a mechanic when checking the car whether buying from a friend or a dealer.
9. Never shy away from asking questions. 
10. If there’s a gut feeling about it not being good, don’t be afraid to walk away.

Bringing a mechanic along is always a good strategy.  Make sure your mechanic inspects the totality of the car, from the history down to its last screw.  It should be parked on a level spot.  You should make certain that it was driven for about an hour.  This should make it a good time to make the inspection.  Always make it on a well lit surrounding and in broad daylight.