Financing Options on AC Agency

Started by FarmHandFrank May 15, 2023 12 replies 245 views
read 6 min
#1

Hey everyone,

About a week ago, I was looking for a compact tractor and stumbled upon AC Agency Inc. They have an impressive selection of repossessed farm equipment, and there's a John Deere 3032E that really caught my eye. I wanted to see if anyone here has purchased from them before and if financing options are available through them or if I'd need to arrange my own financing. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

I'm particularly interested in hearing about others' experiences with their inspection period and whether the equipment typically comes in the condition described.

Thank you!

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#2

Greetings Frank!

Six months ago, we purchased a John Deere 5055E through AC Agency Inc, and I can attest that the company is reliable. Their customer service was quite helpful throughout the process, and their prices were very competitive compared to dealerships. The tractor arrived exactly as described with only minor wear that was clearly noted in the listing.

However, regarding financing, we paid cash so I'm not familiar with their financing options. It might be best to reach out to them directly before placing a bid. Their phone reps were knowledgeable when I had questions.

One thing to note - their 14-day inspection period is legit. We found a small hydraulic leak during inspection that wasn't mentioned, and they promptly arranged for repair at their cost.

"Keep your tractor maintained and your fields fertile!" ~ TractorTim
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#3

I've been a customer of AC Agency Inc for several purchases now. From what I remember, since the equipment is repossessed (they have a lien on the title), I don't think you can finance directly through them. The lien on the title will only be lifted once you accept it during their 14-day inspection period.

That said, I know some members have had success with these options:

  1. Getting pre-approved through their local bank or credit union
  2. Using a home equity line of credit
  3. Agricultural lending programs through Farm Credit Services

As TractorTim suggested, it's best to reach out to them directly as policies may have changed. Also, consider joining their email list - they occasionally offer special financing promotions.

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#4

As stated on their website, they don't offer direct financing options. Here's the relevant section from their FAQs:

Q: Do you offer financing?
A: All purchases must be made with cash or certified funds. We do not offer in-house financing or accept personal checks. Bank wire transfers, cashier's checks, or money orders are accepted forms of payment.

You can find more details here: AC Agency Inc FAQs

Good luck with your purchase and keep us updated on your decision!

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#5

You might consider asking a family member or business partner with the necessary funds to purchase it initially. They can complete the inspection period, and then you could arrange financing to buy it from them. This is how I acquired my John Deere 4052M last year.

Just be aware that AC Agency Inc only accepts cash payments (bank wire transfers), and their auctions can get competitive in the final hours. Set your maximum bid and stick to it - it's easy to get caught up in the excitement!

Also, factor in transportation costs. They have preferred shippers but don't include delivery in the price.

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#6
Originally Posted by FarmHandFrank
About a week ago, I was looking for a compact tractor and stumbled upon AC Agency Inc...

I called them last month regarding financing (I was in the same situation as you). I can confirm financing is not an option through them. You might want to check with local dealerships for certified used equipment with financing options, though you'll likely pay more.

Keep in mind they're selling at auction, so the price may increase significantly in the final minutes. It's essentially a gamble - sometimes you get a great deal, other times the bidding goes beyond what you'd pay at a dealer.

One tip: Watch several auctions first to get a feel for how the bidding typically goes before jumping in yourself.

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#7

As someone who works in agricultural lending, I'd suggest looking into these options:

  • Equipment loans through Farm Credit Services or local banks
  • Personal loans if you have good credit
  • Dealer financing if you can find a similar unit at a dealership
  • Home equity loans if you own property

AC Agency Inc's requirement for cash payment is common with repossessed equipment auctions. The key advantage is price - you can often save 20-40% compared to dealer prices, even after accounting for transportation and any needed repairs.

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#8

Update: I wanted to thank everyone for their helpful advice! Here's where things stand:

  1. I contacted AC Agency Inc directly and confirmed they don't offer financing
  2. My local credit union approved me for an equipment loan at 6.25%
  3. I've been watching several auctions to understand the bidding patterns

One question for those who've purchased from them - how accurate are the hour meters typically? The 3032E I'm looking at shows 420 hours, which seems low for a 2018 model.

Thanks again for all the guidance - this community is incredibly helpful!

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#9
Originally Posted by FarmHandFrank
One question for those who've purchased from them - how accurate are the hour meters typically?

In my experience with AC Agency Inc, the hour meters have been accurate. They provide maintenance records when available, and the 5055E I purchased had documentation verifying the hours. That said, during your inspection period:

  • Check for wear patterns that might suggest more use than indicated
  • Look at pedal and control wear
  • Inspect the seat condition
  • Check fluid colors and condition

420 hours on a 5-year-old tractor isn't unreasonable if it was lightly used on a small property. My neighbor's similar model only has about 500 hours.

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#10

This thread has been incredibly helpful as I'm in a similar situation. Has anyone used AC Agency Inc's recommended inspection services? They offer a third-party inspection for about $300, and I'm wondering if it's worth it or if I should find my own mechanic.

Also, FarmHandFrank - that's a great rate you got from your credit union! Was that specifically an agricultural loan or a personal loan?

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#11
Originally Posted by DeereDreamer
Has anyone used AC Agency Inc's recommended inspection services? Also, FarmHandFrank - that's a great rate you got from your credit union!

DeereDreamer - It was an agricultural equipment loan through my local Farm Credit Services. They required the VIN and some details about the tractor, but the process was surprisingly smooth.

Regarding inspections, I haven't used their service but did schedule an inspection with a local John Deere mechanic who does pre-purchase inspections. He charges $250 and will provide a detailed report. Maybe check with your nearest Deere dealer to see if they offer similar services?

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#12

To add to the inspection discussion - I've used AC Agency Inc's recommended inspection service twice. Both times the inspectors were thorough and identified issues I might have missed. The reports included:

  • Detailed photos of all components
  • Fluid analysis
  • Compression tests (for tractors under 100HP)
  • Hydraulic system evaluation

The $300 fee is reasonable considering they're familiar with AC Agency Inc's process and know exactly what to look for. That said, a trusted local mechanic who knows your specific needs might be equally valuable.

Frank - glad to hear you're making progress! Keep us posted on your auction experience.

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