Collector Cars Wanted

Whether you own the car of your dreams or you simply dream about owning the car of your dreams, joining a car club related to that particular car is a must. We have found that car clubs are a great way to network, meet others with similar interests and to get deals on cars and accessories.

Many people think that car clubs are simply for those people who want or have a tricked out ride with all the chrome their car can hold. This is definitely not true. From searching car clubs and information about car clubs, we found clubs available for anything from lowriders, monster trucks and motorcycles to luxury and high end vehicles. It seems that car clubs carry a stigma to be more for teenagers dreaming of owning a tricked out ride whereas they are really for anyone of any age who has a love of cars.

What do you get when you join a car club? This varies from club to club, but we have found a few things that are more prevelant. Many of the clubs have a monthly newsletter that will notify you of new products and accessories, cars for sale and upcoming car events. There is also gear that you can buy related to that car including t-shirts, hats, key chains, travel mugs and water bottles. You typically get a discount on these items if you belong to these clubs. If the club has a website, you can join the forum to share information about things you have done to your car as well as solicit advice from others.

If you are a car collector or are planning to purchase a car, car clubs can also help you find good deals. We know of one man who is a member of the S2000 club. After graduating from college, he decided to downsize in cars for a couple of years. Now that he owns his own business, he wanted to purchase another S2000. Through people he met at the car club he was able to find an awesome deal on a used one.

Car club memberships also make great gifts for the people we know who have everything. We have done this for a father-in-law who just purchased a Mini Cooper and a cousin who is into Lowriders. They both loved the gift and enjoy getting the newsletters and buying car gear for themselves.

So, whether you are driving a luxury car or cruising in your tricked out Honda, there is a car club just waiting for you. You can join for a small fee, but the perks, discounts and networking make it all well worth it. If, on the off chance, you can’t find a car club that fits your needs, consider starting your own. Chances are there are others out there who would love to join the club and swap car tips and information with each other.

Walking is great exercise. It also gives you the opportunity to observe things more closely than driving by at 25 m.p.h. A new trend I have been noticing on my daily walks is more cars in the driveways of my neighbors in the middle of the week. My community, like most, is grappling with lay-offs, furloughs and other painful signs of the current recession. And, while it’s not something we talk about at cocktail parties, there are probably some who are finding it difficult to make loan or credit card payments on time. If they haven’t yet, they will likely be receiving calls from bill collectors in the near future. As someone who’s been on the dialing end of these calls, I’d offer the following thoughts. First, there are some things you need to know about bill collectors.

1. Bill collectors are not there to make your life difficult or to judge you. They are people being paid to get the property of the lender back. While their performance can be based on a number of things, typically, the more they collect, the more money they make. Avoiding a conversation with them is not a good idea – they’ll call back, it’s their job.
2. They appreciate honesty – people lie to them all day long. Be honest about your situation and your ability to make a payment.
3. Don’t send post-dated checks or give a bill collector your checking account number. While most bill collectors are honest, some may try to cash the checks early or try to draw payments from your checking account. If you don’t have the funds, you will be hit with non-sufficient-funds fees from your bank. Most creditors have the ability to do an electronic funds transfer if you contact them the day you have the money available. You may also be able to do this online when the funds are in your checking account. Ask about these options rather than sending a postdated check. (NOTE: If you are asked to pay an electronic funds transfer fee, ask them to waive it. If the first collector “can’t”, ask to speak with a supervisor. Your money should be going toward meeting your minimum payment requirements, not earning fees for the lender.)
4. While a bill collector will usually start by demanding all of the money you owe and ask that you pay it immediately, they are generally willing and able to negotiate. Typically, the more you owe and the further delinquent you are, the more flexibility they have. If you have only missed a payment or two, you may be able to get late fees removed or interest rates reduced, once you make payment. If you are further delinquent, you may be able to negotiate for principal reduction or lower monthly payments. PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a recommendation to wait until you are in real trouble to negotiate. That strategy will severely damage your credit report and credit scores and will cost you far more in the long run. Before you start any negotiation, you need to have a strong grasp on your current budget and financial situation (keep reading for some tips on that).

Second, you need to be realistic about your budget and what you can pay. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Make sure the necessities are paid for first. This includes food, housing (mortgage or rent payments), necessary utilities (HBO is not a necessity) and transportation. This will give you your new stripped-down budget. You won’t like it, but hopefully this is only temporary!
2. Paying unsecured loans like student loans and credit cards has to be a secondary priority. One word of warning, if you can maintain minimum payments on all of your cards, that is a better strategy than making bigger payments on one card while ignoring the others. The reason for this is that the credit card companies report your account each month to the consumer credit bureaus. If lenders see your credit report deteriorating, even the company you are paying may close your account. It is difficult to get by without at least one credit card.
3. Once you’ve set a budget you will know what you have left over for these non-essential debt payments. This is all you should ever agree to pay a bill collector.
4. In order to make sure you get as much mileage out of this pool of money as you can, you should review all of the non-essential debt payments you have each month to determine if you can make them with your new stripped-down budget. If not, it’s time to negotiate for lower payments.
5. If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask. Sometimes consumer credit counseling is the right thing for you. A legitimate credit-counseling agency can help you with your budget and with negotiating lower payments. For a list of reputable services, check out the National Federation of Credit Counselors website at nfcc.org.
6. Don’t do this alone. It is important to communicate with your spouse and any adult children who live with you so that everyone knows the plan. A united front when speaking with a collector is important.

Following these tips should take some of the angst out of dealing with bill collectors, and allow you to take better control of your financial situation.

Imported luxury sports cars are longed for by many car buyers and collectors. The US is one of the many countries who love to import luxury vehicles like sports cars. There are new ones but there are also used luxury cars that are sold in the car market.

Brand new imported luxury cars are very expensive so many buyers are turning to used luxury sports cars as an alternative. Although pre-owned, many buyers still wish to buy them to be part of their collections. Others purchase these used imported luxury cars to lift their public images and add class and prestige when driving.

Here are some tips that need to be considered when buying used imported luxury sports cars:

1. The real cost of the imported luxury sports car should be determined. It is not advisable to buy the used car without having it appraised. Many car sellers price the imported cars very high because most buyers are not familiar with their true cost. It is important to determine the value before buying a car whether it is new or pre-owned.

2. Buyers of these cars should research the car before purchasing. It is important to remember that they are imported cars and you should be aware of, and informed about the car’s capacity, gas mileage, speed, and engine performance.

Know the depreciation rate and how the cars are sold in the market. By so doing, the research will help the buyer obtain some tips to use when buying imported luxury sports cars. The way to research is to use the internet or seek the advice of other car owners/buyers who are familiar with these types of cars.

3. When shopping for a car, it is recommended that you enlist the assistance of an experienced car mechanic that is not employed by the dealer. The mechanic should be an expert in checking the engine and other parts of the used car. This is to ensure that the car is in good shape and that it will not make the dream of the buyer become a nightmare.

Take time to think about the purchase before making the final decision. The same applies when buying an imported luxury sports car. All things must be considered before buying so that you will not regret buying the used car. When purchasing an imported car it is imperative that you ensure that you receive all the required paperwork – this could save you form some nightmares in the future.

In the world of vintage and classic cars, preserving an automobile is a different ball game than restoring one. Preserving vintage cars is not in any way a means of restoring them. That means preserving vintage and classic wheels and rides does not entail rigging and fitting them with customized brand new car seat covers and what not. In the simplest of terms, preserving a classic car is basically letting it hang on to its old colors body frame and floor mats.

While most car enthusiasts prefer shiny chrome plates and hoods, vintage and classic cars that are untouched still emanate a certain archaic aura, sometimes to the point of sacredness and worship. Beneath the decades of rust, grime, dust, and dents, preserved vintage cars, even with their tattered seat covers are still considered works of beauty.

This seems to be the trend that a growing number of auto collectors prefer; preferring their vintage and classic jalopies to stay the way they are — steering wheel, stick shifts, floor mats and all.

Many motor and auto enthusiasts want to keep the vehicles as they are because of their historical merit and authenticity. They want to keep the images — and the stories — of these classic cars to fresh and real, despite years of inactivity. The torn seat covers, moldy stick shifts and chipped paint — all tell of the vehicles’ individual histories.

While vintage car preservation is an unsound investment compared to collectors who restore their vintage autos, (especially when considering the amount of money spent to get their hands on a classic ride and letting them rust away) car preservationists say that the sense of history motivates them to do what they do – buy vintage cars and let them be.

Preserving vintage cars and their battered bumpers and dilapidated wheels, is, for car purists, is like owning a piece of history. That feeling of elation is something a car with fully-loaded modifications such as custom seat covers and modern high-revving engine, cannot give to its owner.

However, replacing other parts and accessories, such as rubber linings and car seat covers can still be done for the sake of preservation. Whether or not this crosses the line between car preservation and restoration is still a hot topic for debate. While vintage car purists maintain that everything should be untouched to keep a classic automobile’s authenticity, contemporary car collectors say little changes in floor mats and seat coverings and linings won’t hurt.

Several vintage car preservationists admit that when a car is too far gone, giving it a minor overhaul is not a bad way to go. Popular TV show host and a famous car collector Jay Leno says that he bought a 1934 Duesenberg that had been rotting in a Manhattan parking garage for 34 years and decided to do some restoration because it was way beyond mere preservation. He has also successfully kept intact a 1927 Duesenberg he bought — tires, spark plugs, and all.

For the standard, classic, or exotic car, the cars needs should be the main priority of any transport carrier company. The carefulness should be to the highest degree for any standard or specialty car.

With so many companies that can offer the relocation of your auto and all are well equipped to provide such services? How do you decide who to choose and who has the better rates? Here are a few tips and suggestions that might make that decision a bit easier to make.

If your not sure who to contact for reliable and trustworthy service, you can always ask your mover to connect you to vehicle shipping services the same way they connect you with estimates from residential moving companies. Just follow the steps below to save yourself money.

For a secure and safe loading on custom built covered trailers with full lift gates and unique tie-down systems provide security without damage to your vehicle. Because exotic and classic car transport is now becoming a specialized section of auto transporting you can expect a more secure way of auto transporting.

Custom equipment is designed to meet your specific needs is a standard in the exotic car transport business. Airtight sanitary environments and full air equipment for smooth and even travel are some special options now being offered from specific exotic transport carrier companies and to protect your interests, also make sure they carry the finest insurance coverage available.

Most exotic car companies will accept non-running vehicles. Many exotic car transport companies will design an itinerary according, solely, to your car transport requirements. Exotic, collectors, luxury and antique cars require different handling when in transport.

Be certain when you are investigating exotic car transport companies that exotic and custom-made cars are their specialty and they are experts. The last thing you need to worry about if the company you are considering is going to contract out shipping jobs to third parties.

Working with auto transporters can sometimes require additional car insurance. You’ll also need to pay more attention to things like shipping dates and vehicle inspections. Because of size and weight issues, shipping an SUV will cost more than shipping a compact. You need to take some steps to properly prepare your car, especially exotic or classic cars for transporting.

A good tip for you if your vehicle has a car alarm, disables it. If the alarm starts going off once the auto transporter has your car, they won’t be able to deactivate it. Make sure that your car is squeaky clean so that you can see any damages that may have occurred.

If there are any open seams or holes, seal them to prevent moisture getting into the interior. If you can’t secure the top, consider asking your auto shipper about closed container shipping. If your automobile has any customized accessories – like spoilers, fog lights or ground effects – make sure to secure them or remove them before shipping.

Also, if your can, fold back your vehicle’s mirrors and retract the antennae. Just remember that when it comes to exotic car transport companies, they use various methods and vehicles to move your car long distances.

Just knowing the some basic information about the nuances and services of moving exotic cars will make finding the best exotic car transport companies an assured success for you time and time again.

Are you a classic car collector or are you considering taking up this great hobby?  If so, you may look for classic cars for sale to expand or start your collection.  Craigslist.org is a great place to find these vehicles for sale, but how can you get the best deal?

Mix up your search phrases.  One of the best ways to find classic cars on Craigslist is to choose good search phrases.  If you are looking for something in particular, like 1949 Mercury, use that vehicle name as your search phrase.  If you are just looking for classic cars in general and seeking out the best deals, use a general search phrase.  “Classic cars,” is a good start.  The more search phrases you try, the more results you will get.

Ask lots of questions.  Buying classic cars are tricky.  To ensure you get a good deal, always ask the seller lots of questions.  Start by asking them about the vehicle.  When did they purchase it?  Where did they purchase it?  Has the vehicle just sat in their garage or did they attend classic car shows?  Has any restoration been done?  It is best to read all vehicle descriptions carefully, but sometimes sellers don’t include as much information as you need to make a decision.  That is why asking questions are recommended.  You can use the answers to some of your questions to ensure the selling price is fair.

Ask to see pictures.  In fact, ask to see lots of pictures.  Classic car owners take great pride in their vehicles, but some car owner’s aren’t necessarily hobbyists or collectors.  These individuals may not have taken the best care of the vehicle.  For that reason, ask to see pictures.  Most times, Craigslist sellers only post one or two pictures.  It is reasonable to ask the seller to send you more via email.  Don’t just examine the car, but the background too.  You can gain a lot of insight into the seller and their pride and care styles by looking at the condition of yards, homes, or garages in the background.

The above mentioned tips can help you find good, quality classic cars for sale on Craigslist.  Since classic cars are sometimes difficult to find, you may need to expand your search to include other nearby cities or your entire state.  If so, download a Craigslist search tool that allows you to perform multi-city, statewide, or nationwide searches.

Buying collectors cars is a lot like paying for a story. You must listen to what has gone on with the car to truly appreciate its value. You might not buy the car for its mechanical ability; you might pay for the car purely because its story touched your heart. After all, most car collectors do not collect their vehicles for the fun of it, they collect them because they are personally attached to them and they believe it is the right thing to do.

When you buy a used car it is more imperative than ever to talk to the previous owner. Luckily, most collector cars are being sold from the previous owner. You need to grill them about every detail of the car, as there is a lot more at stake with collector’s cars than there is with regular cars. Also, do not be afraid to ask them for paperwork for certain things like previous servicing and stuff along that line as you really should look at it.

Mileage fraud is a BIG concern when it comes to dealing with collector cars. A lot of people try to scam buyers by turning back the odometers on old cars. This is quiet a bit easier on old cars than it is with today’s cars. Make sure the odometer looks alright and it matches the mileage on the record or question them! Once you have verified the mileage is correct, the next step you will want to do is to take the car to a mechanic for an independent inspection.

Once you have had the independent inspection completed, try to convince the owner into letting you take it for a test drive. The more you get to see with the car, the more you will know it is what the owner said it is. These steps are very important as most collector cars were made before the year 1980. 1980 was the first year that many companies started keeping data about cars involved in accidents. Therefore, you cannot look up to see what has happened with the vehicle if it was made before the year 1980 and it has had only one owner. Just think about it though, because if you buy a collectors car that turns out to be a dud, you are going to be more than out of money, you are going to be pissed off and angry that someone would try to sell you a car that they knew was a dud. You are going to be pissed off that you got taken advantage of by a horrible person.

When collecting collector cars it is important to also consider the transport of them. If you are buying a car from a place that is far enough from your house, you probably are not going to want to drive it home. You should always look into getting a transportation service to bring the car to your home. Many have considerable rates but they can be well worth it. FedEx Auto Passport is one of the best and moves thousands of cars a day. Best of all, they are kept covered in a tractor trailer and you can track the truck by GPS.