[5] Buy from Owners, not Sellers

The first time my second windshield began to leak I knew it was time to sell the Land Rover. Up to that point, I had been an Owner.  I made many (ultimately foolish) investments in the car because I expected to drive it for many years to come.  

The moment I became a Seller everything changed.  The dealer recommended a ‘full reseal’ but I opted for the cheapest option - just patch the leak.  No longer did I splurge on the ‘recommended’ Premium fuel.  The Land Rover and I were parting ways.  

As a Seller, my goals were spend no money and sell for the highest price.  Ideally, sell it to a stranger as quickly as possible.  (Thank you, Carvana.*)

When I was a kid, I remember combing the classifieds, telling my Dad about a deal and getting his reply - “Why are they selling?”  I never thought to ask.  Because sometimes people just sell??

People never just sell.  There’s always a reason.  And to be clear, there are very good reasons to sell.  

But Buyers should carefully examine a Seller’s motives. Is this the bittersweet parting with a prized possession or a damp Land Rover?  

Buy things from people who have been acting like an Owner the whole time.