Street 10 remains used car buyers’ ‘favourite’ hub

Many people find the process of buying and selling cars convenient in the Street 10 used car market.

By Ayman Adly/Staff ReporterStreet 10 in Doha’s Industrial Area continues to be a huge draw for people looking for used vehicles despite stiff competition from online portals that offer a wide range of options to potential customers. While many people prefer the comfort and convenience of going through websites to see what’s on offer, hundreds of others consider travelling all the way to Street 10 as the best way to get good deals while buying or selling cars. “Of course, the websites offer huge variety these days and some good deals can be found there as well. However, I would still go to Street 10 to look for a used car or sell one,” said a Doha resident.Used cars of various makes and models are traded in the Street 10 market and it is common to see people driving through the area slowly while looking for possible buyers. The rush increases on Fridays and roads leading to the place see massive traffic congestion. Gulf Times had earlier reported that some residents had said it was difficult to access the used car market because of the busy roads and traffic congestion. However, despite these problems and calls for relocating the market, Street 10 continues to attract people and see brisk business.“The process (of buying/selling cars on Street 10) is simple as it involves direct sale without advertisements or agents. You just have to slowly drive the vehicle you want to sell and many people will stop you and ask about the age of the car, mileage and expected price. Usually, only a few people are genuinely interested in buying (cars). Once an agreement is reached for a certain price, the customer and the owner drive to the nearest technical inspection shop. The transaction and formalities take place after the car is checked,” said Khalid, an Arab expatriate who frequents the place.Locals and expatriates from different walks of life feel that the used car market is a good idea and the “direct sale” process makes things easy for them. But they also complain that the place is always crowded and there is not enough space where cars can be exhibited for sale. They are, however, hopeful that the new construction plan for the Industrial Area will take these factors into consideration and allot a suitable yard for the market.Abdulrahman, a young Qatari who was trying to sell his old Toyota Land Cruiser, said: “Cars are an essential commodity in Doha and cannot be considered a luxury. So, having such a market is a basic necessity as it helps customers as well as vehicle owners. It can also help ease the grip of car merchants on the market as the process becomes open, where everybody can sell vehicles directly. Further, the creation of a proper market can generate more business opportunities, especially in terms of related services.”The vehicles that are displayed for sale belong to various countries and cater to different requirements and budgets. According to those in the know, Land Cruisers fetch some of the highest prices, with sellers asking for as much as QR30,000 for even 1996 models. “The popular notion is that Japanese cars are more durable and reliable, which is why they have high resale value. Both buyers and sellers are aware of this,” said a mechanic from a nearby technical inspection centre.“However, if a car has had a serious accident, it will be hard to get a reasonable price. Also, any issues with the engine or transmission will make customers avoid such vehicles as the repair cost is high,” he added.