Buying online: A risky business?

FRANCOIS LOTTERINGIT is not an uncommon practice for buyers and sellers to look for bargains online.

But the danger lights must start flickering when an item, in this case a vehicle, is offered on social media platforms as ‘hard-to-resist ‘ and ‘priced right ‘.

Top Revs spoke to Steve Venter, who is responsible for sales and marketing at NamAuto – a reliable online platform where sellers and buyers can meet and trade. NamAuto is backed by the Pupkewitz Motor Division and aims to ensure no chancers or fly-by-nights will leave customers out of pocket and without wheels.

“If you want to advertise your car on our platform you have to fill in a declaration and forms alongside your identification and driving licence that we keep on record,” Venter said.

Should a person show any interest in buying a car that is advertised on the platform, NamAuto will make the contact details available.

“We do not reveal or advertise any information publicly about the seller that might lure scammers for a possible fraudulent deal,” Venter added.

This ensures NamAuto protects both seller and buyer, he said.

This method comes at a time when many hair-raising stories are shared on social media and in the mainstream media about scammers.

Venter said since they have all procedures in place and are backed by the Pupkewitz brand, they have an effective guard against those seeking to commit fraud.

“To advertise with us is easy, any potential seller can contact NamAuto, and all information shared thereafter is confidential. Only the vehicle is visible to any potential client on the platform.”

Venter said they have added a financial calculator to help clients work out approximate instalments, however, each bank’s rate will depend on interest rates, risk and other external factors.

The financial calculator especially helps one determine which car best suits one’s pocket and allows buyers to get comparisons on various models and their price brackets.

“We also try to establish and verify that the cars we sell are in a good mechanical condition, were not involved in any accidents and this is where the owner’s declaration comes in, to provide the new owner with all the information about the car that is needed before doing the deal,” Venter said.

Advances in technology will soon mean potential clients can make use of 360-view technology to view the car from all sides.

Buying a new car is a big step and a joyous occasion for many families, it brings mobility and freedom, but any first-time buyer must always keep in mind that the instalment is not the only cost involved, as insurance, fuel and maintenance must also be budgeted for.

And the costs do not end there, as cars needed to be registered and licences must be renewed annually, at a fee.

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