What's a reasonable offer?

[billinmich]

Hi, I'm Bill in suburban Detroit and a newbie to all of this online/forum stuff.

I'm looking primarily to freshen up a car, not a complete restoration. I actually want a 4 or 6 cyl car and would drive it to cruise nights w/ wife & grand kids. I really have no desire to turn it into any sort of performer.

I found a two-eyed Fairmont 2 door sedan (boxtop/notchback) close to my house and seems pretty much what I seek. It looks fairly solid and seems fairly complete, but obviously tired-looking. It has an automatic, but I can't tell what's under the hood. I can't see any badges indicating a v8.

There is some duct tape on the front corners of the roof (A-pillars), but other than some slight surface rust on the door skins. It seems pretty presentable for a Michigan car.

Generally speaking, what would a reasonable ballpark offer be for this car? I don't want to insult the guy, but I am on a budget. Is the duct tape a sign to run away, or is this common and easily repaired?

Any sort of advice or guidance is greatly appreciated.

[82GTforME]

Do you have any pictures to accompany the description? That can always help too.

Do you know if it runs or anything? Sounds like it could be a bargain. I wonder if the duct tape is used for keeping water out?

I am by no means an expert but a tired running non-V8/standard Fairmont could be had for $1000 or less I would think. My 2 cents.

Welcome to the site BTW and good luck finding a cruise mobile!

[billinmich]

Rodster,

Thanks for your comment.
The car I've been looking at appears to be in regular use here in Mich; it comes and goes from in front of the neighbor's house. It may be a work car or perhaps student-type basic transportation.
The duct tape seems to be a crude patch to prevent a leak. Is rust in the front corner of the roof (A-pillar) common? Is it an easy/reasonable repair or does it usually indicate serious floor or structural damage?

Should I approach this guy or stay away?