Private Purchase Finance

Private Sale Car Loans from 5.99% p.a.

Found the perfect car on Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace, or through a friend? We finance private sale purchases with the same competitive rates as dealer buys. PPSR checks and valuations are handled for you at no cost.

Comparison rate 6.85% p.a.* on a $20,000 secured private sale loan over 5 years.

Private Sale Loan Calculator

Same rates as dealer purchases

Loan Amount
$20,000
$5,000$100,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.49%
5.00%15.00%
Loan Term
5 years
1 years 7 years
Monthly Payment
$400.66
Total Interest
$4,040
Total Repayment
$24,040
Principal (83.2%)Interest (16.8%)
Principal: $20,000
Interest: $4,040

This calculator provides estimates only. Actual rates and repayments may vary based on your circumstances and lender requirements.

Private Sale Car Loans at a Glance
  • Finance private purchases from Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace, Carsales, or direct from sellers
  • Same competitive rates as dealer purchases — from 5.99% p.a. secured
  • PPSR check, valuation, and settlement with the seller all handled by our team
  • Funds transferred directly to the seller bank account for a secure transaction
  • Pre-approval available so you can negotiate confidently with private sellers

How Private Sale Car Finance Works

Financing a private sale purchase is straightforward, but it involves a few extra steps compared to a dealer purchase. The key difference is that there is no dealership acting as an intermediary — the transaction is directly between you and the seller, with the lender funding the purchase.

1
Get Pre-Approved
Know your budget before you start looking. Search with confidence knowing your finance is ready.
2
Find Your Car & Negotiate
Find the car, inspect it, and agree on a price with the seller. Get the VIN and rego details.
3
We Run the Checks
PPSR check for encumbrances, market valuation, and lender approval on the specific vehicle.
4
Secure Settlement
Lender transfers funds to the seller. You and the seller sign the transfer. Drive away same day.

Essential Checks Before Buying Privately

Unlike dealer purchases which come with consumer protections and statutory warranties, private sales are “buyer beware.” These checks are critical to protect yourself:

  • PPSR check ($2) — confirms no existing finance, stolen vehicle records, or write-off history. Never skip this step. A car with existing finance can be legally repossessed from you even if you paid the seller in full.
  • Independent mechanical inspection ($150-$350) — have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle before committing. This can reveal hidden mechanical issues, accident damage, or odometer tampering.
  • Service history review — check for regular servicing. Gaps in service history can indicate neglect and may affect the vehicle's longevity and resale value.
  • VIN verification — confirm the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the car matches the registration papers. Discrepancies can indicate a stolen or rebirthed vehicle.
  • Market value comparison — check RedBook, CarsGuide, or similar tools to confirm the asking price is fair. Private sales should typically be 5-15% below equivalent dealer prices.
PPSR Check is Non-Negotiable

If you buy a vehicle with existing finance registered against it, the original lender has the legal right to repossess the vehicle from you — even though you paid the seller in full. You would then need to pursue the seller for your money back. Always run a PPSR check before purchasing privately. Our team runs this check for you as part of the loan process.

Valuation Requirements for Private Sales

Lenders need to verify that the purchase price you have agreed with the seller reflects the vehicle's actual market value. This protects both you and the lender from overpaying. The valuation methods used include:

  • Automated valuation (RedBook/Glass's) — the most common method. The lender checks the vehicle against market databases based on year, make, model, variant, and kilometres. This is instant and free.
  • Desktop valuation — a lender assessor reviews the vehicle details and comparable sales. Used when the automated valuation does not cover the specific vehicle.
  • Physical inspection — required for higher-value vehicles, classic cars, or when the automated valuation raises questions. An independent valuer inspects the vehicle in person.

If the agreed purchase price is above the market valuation, the lender will typically only finance up to the market value. You would need to cover the difference as a deposit. Our brokers can advise you on fair market value before you negotiate with the seller.

Eligibility

  • Australian citizen or permanent resident aged 18+
  • Regular income from employment or self-employment
  • Vehicle must be registered or registrable in Australia
  • Vehicle must pass a PPSR check (no existing encumbrances)
  • Purchase price must be at or below market valuation
  • Seller must provide bank account details for direct payment

WARNING: This comparison rate is true only for the example given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees, or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate. Comparison rates are based on a secured loan of $30,000 over 5 years for vehicle finance and $50,000 over 5 years for equipment finance, as required under the National Credit Code.

Private Sale Car Loan FAQs

Can I get a car loan for a private sale purchase?
Yes, many lenders finance private sale purchases. The process is similar to dealer finance but includes additional steps: the lender will require a PPSR check to confirm no money is owing on the vehicle, an independent valuation or RedBook check to confirm the purchase price is fair, and the seller details for settlement.
How does settlement work for a private sale?
Once your loan is approved, the lender transfers the purchase amount directly to the seller bank account. Some lenders issue a bank cheque instead. You and the seller sign the vehicle transfer paperwork, and the lender registers their security interest on the PPSR. The process typically takes 24-48 hours from final approval.
What is a PPSR check and why is it important?
A PPSR (Personal Property Securities Register) check reveals whether the vehicle has any existing finance owing, is listed as stolen, or has been written off. This is critical for private purchases because unlike dealer sales, there is no statutory warranty. If you buy a car with existing finance, the original lender can legally repossess it from you. PPSR checks cost $2 and take seconds.
Do I need a valuation for a private sale car loan?
Most lenders require a valuation to confirm the purchase price is consistent with market value. This can be a RedBook or Glass automated valuation (most common), a desktop valuation by the lender, or in some cases a physical inspection. Our brokers handle this as part of the application process at no cost to you.
Are private sale car loan rates different from dealer purchase rates?
Most lenders charge the same rate for private sale and dealer purchases. However, some lenders add a small premium (0.25-0.50%) for private sales due to the additional administration. Our brokers identify lenders that treat private sales the same as dealer purchases to get you the best rate.

Buying Privately? Finance It Through Us

Same rates as dealer purchases. PPSR checks and valuations included at no cost.