long distance purchases

[Mark Trank]

I too have seriously considered the long distance purchase while looking for
my 200q, the primary reason being the scarcity of older Audis in my region
(Central Virginia).  The car I found was in North Carolina, and I was
willing to drive the 6 hours or so to see it, but as luck would have it, the
owner's daughter lived in my town and just had a new baby, so it was a great
excuse to drive the car up to visit his new grandchild!  He literally drove
the car to my door and we did the deal after the pre-purchase check, etc.
Prior to his driving up, I had him fax me all of the repair and service
records (which he was more than willing to do) so that gave me a comfort
level with the car. 

With easy access via the internet to cars all over the country (and beyond),
it is not unreasonable to think about traveling beyond one's borders to find
the ideal car, IMHO, especially if you live in an area where Audi offerings
(of the older variety) are less plentiful than in larger metro areas.

I agree with a previous post that, if you travel, take a cashier's check for
$1-2k less than the purchase price, have the remainder available in cash,
and negotiate once you have determined for yourself the car's value.  Having
a pre-purchase check arranged in advance is a good idea, even if you are
dealing with unfamiliar territory geographically.  The list should identify
quality Audi repair facilities in the area and that's a huge help.

Just my .02....sorry for the BW.

Mark 

91 200q20v  83k miles