Overhaulin'

What is the deal with buying a car at a police auction?

Specifically for New York state, how do you go about finding one? I've heard of some people getting great deals and I've heard from others that you actually have to be a car dealership to attend...which is true? Would it be obnoxious to call the town's police station (non-emergency of course) and ask them personally? Help!

Public Comments

1. possible to get a brand new bmw for 20 bucks might have 20 bullet holes an dmotor blew up really you can find a great deal but thing is there another hundred wanting same car sometimes an dyou miss out of it but they are there just type into search box police auction goverment auction
2. these cars are seized by the police, sheriffs' dept., and the state patrol from drug dealers or other such persons because they broke the law === you are welcome to call the police etc. to inquire about the rules of purchase and the dates that they are having an auction === good luck and I hope that you do find a good car for a reasonable price ----- be sure that you ask when you can inspect the cars prior to the auction time ______ write down your questions before you call ______ so you are organized _____ the best person to talk with is the ""desk sargent"" .............
3. You have to have a whole sellers license in order to attend the car auctions. if you go with someone who has one then you can go bid and generally get some killer deals. remember that money talks at those and you don't have as much time to inspect the cars. Also it's as is not with warranty. And the moment you buy it the vehicle now has a salvage title which means that your car is now worth less than what you paid for it. Unless you go to the DMV and get that changed. It's better to go to a dealer that inspects the cars to buy a vehcile, if you know how to work on cars then this may be a better route to travel.
4. You do NOT need to be a dealer to attend a police auction. You also can't just call to ask about the cars and items up for bids. Contact information is clearly stated on the listing. They are usually done by a professional auction house and they would be the contact point. There are some deals to be had if you know what you are doing. Many people don't do proper research before attending and end up spending too much. Remember there is a "buyers premium" added to the winning bid price along with state taxes and fees.
5. Don't bother.