[Alright1114]

Okay, please forgive my ignorance, but I am just NOW thinking of buying a Corvette (70-73; 80-82; 88-96... really have ALWAYS wanted one) and I'm probably going to shop and buy online. However, I've never bought a car online and I'm not sure exactly what to expect in terms of how the process works.

I live in Virginia and, if I decide to buy a Corvette from California, for example, I really don't want to have to travel out west to inspect the car beforehand (because of the expense and time required). Assuming I find one that seems like a good deal, how do I avoid being "taken"? Is the general practice to have a reasonable inspection period after the car is delivered, but before payment is required? I can't imagine sending a few thousand dollars to someone without KNOWING what I'm getting in return, ya know?

Any hints, suggestions, warnings, or additional information anyone might be able to provide would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

Alright1114 (Alan)

PS- by the way, I've been looking mostly on "Autotrader" and "Vettehound" dot-coms. Does anyone else have any other suggestions for online sources? Thanks again!

[SeeOneCorvette]

Hey Alright-

I bought a '69 coupe online (I'm in Seattle, the car was in Cupertino, CA). The smartest thing I did was, as a member of NCRS, have a accredited NCRS judge go and inspect the car before I made the trek to pay in full and drag it home.

It'll pay big dividends if you have a knowledgeable and trustworthy individual look at the car BEFORE you send the full payment. Even if it costs a few hundred bucks, you'll be money ahead. I promise you won't regret it.

If you're not a member of NCRS, then you might consider an accredited auto appraiser to give you his candid opinion on condition, originality, etc. If it's a driver or later model Corvette, also have them recommend a qualified mechanic to check it out. You should even negotiate with the seller to cover some of the cost if a clean bill of health is found and helps to close the deal.

Good luck!

[Alright1114]

Hi SeeOneCorvette,

Thanks for the suggestion. I'm not currently an NCRS member, but I wouldn't be opposed to joining. I can definitely see how it would be beneficial.

Thanks again!

Alright1114 (Alan)