How it works

How our independent car buying advisory works

Buying a used car is a major financial decision. ExactQuest follows a clear, research-backed process designed to give you the relevant information and independent guidance.

The steps below reflect our Core Advisory service. Essentials and Full Concierge follow the same general process, with different levels of support.

Whether you’ve already found a car or are just beginning your search, you’ll always know what happens next.

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    Schedule your free discovery call

    We discuss your needs, budget, timeline, and where you are in the buying process. If you’ve already found a vehicle, we’ll review the details together. If you’re still searching, we’ll learn what you’re looking for and explain the differences between our services and which may fit your needs

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    Define what you are looking for

    If you’ve found a vehicle, send us the listing and available vehicle details. If you’re still deciding what to buy, we’ll discuss your requirements, priorities and budget. Full Concierge clients can also have ExactQuest identify suitable vehicles.

    From here, the research is tailored to your situation and service package.

  • Research and evaluation

    Research and evaluation

    This is where our engineering-based approach comes to life.

    Rather than relying on seller claims, assumptions or general advice, we research the factors that could materially affect your buying decision. The analysis is tailored to the specific vehicle—or to the makes and models you’re considering if you haven’t selected one yet.

    The findings are documented in your ExactQuest Assessment Report, which will include:

    • Vehicle history analysis

    • Market price benchmarking

    • Known reliability and mechanical risks

    • Expected maintenance and ownership considerations

    • Make/model/year-specific research

    • Greater Boston market considerations

    • A clear written recommendation

    ‍ ‍Sample Assessment Report

    The ExactQuest assessment is a research and advisory service, not a mechanical inspection. When appropriate we identify issues or systems that warrant additional attention during a pre-purchase inspection

    Note: The Essentials service concludes when you receive your ExactQuest Assessment Report, written recommendation and a 1 hour review session. Core Advisory (2 hours of advisor meetings) and Full Concierge (up to 6 hours of advisor meetings as requested by client) continue through the remaining steps.

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    Review your assessment and recommendation

    We review the findings with you, explain what matters and answer your questions. If you’re evaluating a specific vehicle, you’ll receive a clear recommendation: proceed, negotiate, investigate further or walk away. If you’re still searching, we’ll explain which vehicles best fit your needs and budget.

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    Negotiation support

    Core Advisory and Full Concierge clients receive support beyond the assessment. We help you prepare for seller negotiations, understand common dealership tactics and develop a strategy based on our research.

    With Full Concierge, ExactQuest takes a more active role in coordinating the buying process.

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    Purchase support

    Depending on your service package, we can review purchase paperwork, pricing, fees and financing terms for consistency with the negotiated transaction before you sign.

    Support does not end once you've agreed to buy the vehicle. Core Advisory and Full Concierge clients also receive one follow up consultation 30-to 60-day after their purchase to address any questions

Choosing a package

Which service is right for you?

All three services use the same research and assessment methodology. The scope and level of support vary by package

  • Essentials

    $299

    This package is best for buyers who want independent research and a written assessment report before making the choice to buy. 1 hour with advisor to review the report and answer any questions

  • Core Advisory

    $479

    This option is ideal for buyers who want the research, recommendation, negotiation support and guidance during the buying process. Includes 2 hours with an advisor

  • Full Concierge

    $1,895

    This option is made for buyers who want ExactQuest to take a more active role in the search, research, inspection coordination and negotiation process. From identifying suitable vehicles that appear to meet your stated requirements to support when buying. Includes up to six hours of dedicated advisor one-on-one time

View the service details 
Ready to get started?

Your first step is a free conversation

Whether you’ve already found a car or are just beginning your search, the first step is a free 15-minute consultation. We’ll discuss what you’re trying to accomplish and whether ExactQuest is the right fit.

Schedule a chat with an advisor

Not sure whether paid advice is worth it?

See what owning your next vehicle could really cost with our free 5-Year Total Cost of Ownership Calculator.

Calculate Your 5-Year Ownership Cost
Still not convinced? You may find our free guides useful in your search