Am looking for a used Civic LX...2003-2004-2005. Automatic. Can anyone tell me how to use the Edmunds or Kelly Blue Book in order to arrive at a fair price? Found a 2004 Civic from a private party (not a dealer). Excellent condition, 77K miles. Asking $8500, which seems a bit high according to Edmunds. The dealer price could be from $7973 Clean to $8955 Outstanding. Private seller price is $6705 Clean to $7505 Outstanding. This car is in top shape. I will be taking it to a mechanic before buying.

The timing belt is due at around 90-105,000 mi, so that doesn't really figure in at this time.

Is $8500 a good price factoring in the fact that it is a Honda? Thanks.

 

I try to buy at private party or cheaper. With a private party it is "AS IS". Just to give you an example I bought in Aug. A 1999 Dodge Ram QC Laramie 4x4 V-10 5 speed with a nice camper & carpet kit. pretty much loaded with only 73,000 miles bought it from original owner I car faxed it to see if there were any issues & everything was right on. I paid $5000 for it, the owner was asking $6700. If you check Edmonds or KBB you will see it is worth around $7000-$8000 private party. CASH TALKS. I got him to $6000 over the phone when I showed up I pulled 5G out of my pocket & he took it.
So how good of negotiator are you & if your not in a hurry the right deal will come your way.
Just my opinion.