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Craigslist Cautions: What to Know When Buying a Used School Bus


“Used bus for sale craigslist”

Hundreds of people punch that query into Google each month. It’s easy to figure out why. By purchasing directly from an individual, there’s potential to save thousands of dollars on a great used school bus.

But making that decision has significant risks.

Before you fall in love with a bus you found online, here are a few things to keep in mind:



You Don’t Know The Seller

Great, honest people make sales on Craigslist daily. But unfortunately, the inverse is also true. Con artists know how to make a quick buck. Would you be able to spot a liar? Maybe. Maybe not.

To protect yourself, always ask plenty of questions. If the individual is reluctant or evasive, that’s a red flag.




You Don’t Know The Vehicle’s History

The bus you’re buying and the bus you think you’re buying aren’t always the same. The history is a mystery. It could be:

  • Stolen

  • Poorly repaired

  • Falsely advertised


Even documentation can be forged. In the end, you will have to take the bus at face value.


You Don’t Have Financing Options

On Craigslist, cash is king. Unless you have every cent in hand, you won’t be driving away with that bus. But with a dealership, you potentially have access to different financing options. This is a great way to buy a better bus, even if you don’t have the full purchase price available in your bank account right now. Choosing a bus that is slightly out of your price range today can pay dividends down the road.



You Don’t Have All The Information

How much time will you get with that used bus before making your decision?

Enough for a long test drive?

Enough for a thorough inspection?

Even the most patient seller will want to wrap up the transaction sooner rather than later. Chances are you won’t be able to take a few days to think it over or make multiple trips to see the bus in person. The reality is, with Craigslist, you’re forced to make a decision with limited information.



Low prices are tempting. Everyone wants to find a great deal, but don’t ignore all the risks you take by buying from an individual you’ve never met. That’s why working with a reputable dealer is often the better choice. In addition to providing that peace of mind, you get to work with an experienced sales rep and browse a wide range of options. You may have your mindset on one school bus only to learn that another is a better fit for your needs.




Kerlin Bus Sales & Leasing is a dealer located in Silver Lake, IN, offering a variety of used school buses.