Used Cars: need to buy a used car, tarpon springs fl, best cars

Question
Hello,
I currently need to buy a car, I don't know one from the other so any advice appreciated.  I live in Tarpon Springs, Fl and don't know what cars do better in the hot climate. I have to stay around $3,000 to $3,500 , which I know will be an older car.  Any advice on whether or not a private owner or car lot best for this car purchase?

Answer
In that price range I would stick with private owners - as a lot of cheaper dealerships like to sell poorly fixed up (but still broken) cars... now if a larger dealership has a car you like - you can sometimes get a good deal buying someone else's trade in.. so search the big dealerships that you can decently trust.. and private parties..

I live in FL too - and the heat can put a toll on the cars A/C - but that is hard on all cars... I would stick to finding the lowest mileage civic you can... maybe a corolla/camry... even an accord... and going with it.. they seem to be the best cars at being reliable even after a long time (if properly cared for..) - just be sure to have a mechanic check it out before you do anything - also get a history report on the car... the entire process is explained on my website:

Http://thestealership.com/guides.html

Give that a read and if you have any other questions write me back.

Good luck!