I started thinking of selling her in Wellington, with the thought that I could get an easy relocation rental to Auckland and not have to be stressed while there about trying to sell her fast and also get a fair price.
It turned out, though, to be a really stressful week. Hamish checked CarJam, which runs a report on a used car and says if the odometer is good, if it's passed it's WOFs, and if money might be owing on the car from a previous buyer. Apparently in NZ (and maybe in the States too?) people can sell cars that they have financing on. If the bank then decides to take it, they can legally take it from the new owner. WHAT. The CarJam report came up clear except that there was a small possibility that there was money owed on Hestia, since there was money owing on a license plate that used to be on her. It was possible, though unlikely, that the seller could have switched the license plate and sold her to us. Kara and I didn't even know to check! So: if you're buying a car in NZ, check the PPSR database first. And CarJam. OMG.
I spent a sleepless night wondering if I'd been cheated, even though I'd liked the seller and I didn't think it was likely. All manner of horrid things seem likely in the middle of the night. It turned out to be fine, but I was very worried and anxious. Hamish and his parents came to see the car on that Saturday, and then went away to think about it. They texted me that night an offer, and I texted them back a mild counteroffer. And then nothing. For 24 hours! I couldn't believe it. My counteroffer was very small but I was absolutely kicking myself for maybe ruining the situation. And maybe I did-- they texted eventually to say that they'd decided to buy a manual rather than an automatic. Probably it wasn't my counteroffer, but OOF.
It was a such a stressful week, that I think that's definitely part of what got me sick. :(
Everything works out in the end, though. I mentioned to my friend Carla at the Dwellington that I needed a buyer, and she said I should talk to Limara who had stayed at the Dwellington and was now in Auckland to see if she knew anyone. Lo and behold, Limara herself was looking for a car. :) :) It was actually an even better situation- I could drive Hestia up to Auckland without getting a rental, and have some freedom to stop a few places along the way.
Limara and I did a pre-purchase check which turned up a few expensive problems: new tires needed, a new engine mount, and recalibrating the handbrake. Limara made me a very fair offer, with the understanding that I get the problems taken care of before the sale. I spent my last week in Wellington (while deathly ill!) taking care of everything.
I found GREAT used tires-- barely touched!- at a place in Upper Hutt on the suggestion of my coworker Colin. A really funny gruff mechanic put them on for me, though I was a little bit bummed when he said he'd never visit the States because it's too dangerous. Chris came with me and very had a very successful roommate bonding day. I found another really nice guy to take care of the engine mount and handbrake- and recalibrate a few belts- though I ended up having to get the bus from far across the city early one morning and during my lunch break the next day. It was actually a fun adventure, and the mechanic was really really great. Success!
Limara and I met up at my hostel to complete the deal, and then we had a delicious dinner (so good! so cheap!) to catch up and talk about traveling and work and life.
Limara looks absolutely great in Hestia, and I feel really, really happy and satisfied to know that she'll be taken good care of. She's been a great car and I'm glad to do right by her. I'm also happy she's going to a friend. Score another one for the glory of the Dwellington! And good luck to Limara and Hestia in their beautiful new relationship. :p