[asphaltgambler]

In Va to obtain a dealers license is a big deal. You have to already have / lease minimum Sq/Ft RE and building to codes(s). You have to show proof of becoming bond-able, no criminal history, etc etc. In this state it requires a lot of upfront $$ commitment before ever inserting the key into the front door.

A lot of regulation has really tightened in the last 2 decades or so. The idea is to prevent the 'shady's' from setting up shop, fleecing the people then vanishing.


There are some small dealers that will, for a fee, take you along and buy a car for you. Although it's really skating very close to the line................

Also, there's almost as much non-sense going on a dealer auctions as with 'public' auctions. Potential buyers spotting a car they want in the lanes and as they are giving it the once over, pull a fuse to activate a fault light. The upside the cheapo cars will have a arbitration price point. IE: Any vehicle below $2K there's no arbitration for defects found after the sale.