Three for Thursday 01.30.2020
Welcome to TrustDALE's Three For Thursday with Consumer Investigator Dale Cardwell.
A friend of mine recently lost nearly $6,000 because she didn't do her homework when she hired a person who claimed he could be her a deck for less. She would have been protected if she had hired someone from our TrustDALE community. We are saddened to hear stories like this every day. Remember we are here to protect you!
Watch this Investigation
Here's another subject: Have you ever heard of the insurance term diminished value? You should watch our investigation, because This Could Happen to You!
Ask Dale
Here's today's real consumer question, from Donna. She wants to know if I've ever heard of CheapOair. I have. It's an online trip booking resource - but you should know this...
Todays Lesson on how to be a Savvy Consumer!
Today's lesson on how to hire the right diminished value expert:
Fast - Do they want your money NOW? Never pay a diminished value company prior to receiving a written appraisal of what they claim they can recover on your behalf.
Funds - Is the investment required relevant to the promised payoff? If not, it's likely too good to be true. Reputable diminished value appraisers won't give you exaggerated estimates of what they can recover. You should expect estimates in the range of 10% to 20% of your car's value.
Found - A person who intends to rip you off will make certain he can't be found after he gets your money. Make certain you meet your diminished value appraiser and that he performs the appraisal in person. It's also best to document his office or home address.
Define - Your deal by comparing Products, Offers and Prices. Read up on diminished value so that you can negotiate intelligently with appraisers.
Ensure - Your deal with an Ethical negotiation, an Equitable contract and an Effective Guarantee. Get your appraisal agreement in writing.
Authenticate - Your deal by requesting References, checking Reviews, and examining government and watchdog reports. Require your potential appraiser to provide 10 to 20 references, then call the three of your choosing.
Legitimize - Your deal by determining if the company has a business license, liability insurance and is Lawsuit and background checked. As to see his or her business license.
SCAMMERS BEWARE: SEASONED CONSUMER INVESTIGATOR DALE CARDWELL GIVES READERS A GAME PLAN TO AVOID RIP-OFFS