How to Verify a Seller?
Before buying, verify the seller's credibility. Here's how to do it.
User Profile
Check the seller's profile on the site:
• How many active listings do they have?
• Do they respond to messages?
• Did they provide all contact details?
Suspicious:
• New account with many listings (possible dealer)
• No response to questions
• Photos from internet
Phone Contact
Call before meeting:
Check if:
✓ Phone is active
✓ Seller knows vehicle details
✓ Service history
✓ Reason for selling sounds credible
Suspicious:
✗ Doesn't answer specific questions
✗ Avoids talking about car history
✗ Changes story
Messages
Exchange messages before meeting:
Ask questions:
• What is the exact technical condition?
• Were there any repairs/accidents?
• Do you have service history?
• Why are you selling?
• When can I see the car?
Observe responses:
• Quick and specific?
• Avoiding questions?
• Providing contradictory information?
In-Person Meeting
Meet in a safe place:
✓ Public place (e.g., shopping center parking)
✓ During day, in good light
✓ Bring someone with you
✓ Notify family where and with whom you're meeting
During meeting:
• Ask for ID (compare with car documents)
• Check if they're the owner (compare data with registration)
• If intermediary - ask for power of attorney
🚩 Red Flags
Immediately stop contact if:
• Refuses in-person meeting
• Asks for prepayment/deposit before viewing
• Not the owner and has no power of attorney
• Pressures quick decision ("others waiting")
• Changes offer details (price, condition, location)
• Documents don't match description
• Won't show service history
• Suggests strange meeting place/time
Report Suspicious Listing
If you notice fraud or suspicious behavior - report it immediately. You'll help others avoid problems.
Report a Problem