There’s nothing wrong with going for the first one you see, providing a PPI checks out and doesn’t throw up any major works needed.
There is always the option of negotiating a reduced price to take any work into account, although that rarely covers it entirely.
I went for the first one I saw but I needed a LHD in the UK and so didn’t have much choice. The PPI on my 2010 car threw up quite a list of deferred work and I ended up throwing £10K at it to bring it up to my required standard. Here is the list:
- New front wishbones top and bottom required
- New valve cover gaskets required
- New engine mounts required
- New coolant expansion tank required
- Corrosion on underside of subframe - clean up, treat and seal all underside of vehicle, replace chassis plates
- Nearside and off side rear suspension covers missing - fit replacements
- Mirror adjustments switch not working - replace
- Major service required.
- All 4 brake discs somewhat corroded and will need replacing at 'some point in the near future' (now replaced with uprated larger diameter discs all round)
- Metallic clicking sound can be heard with drivers side window down under load at low speeds (likely to be hand brake caliper)
- Driver's door Chrome surround damaged - replace
- All seat adjustment levers missing - replace
- Boot lid handle not working
- Boot lid chrome trim loose
- Boot lid edge badly chipped
- Front bumper grilles slightly adrift
- Off side rear anti stone chip film pealing
- All alloys scuffed or chipped
- both doors have 'thumb dents' requires a smart repair or full bodyshop.
I don’t mean to put you off ownership at all, merely important you go into ownership eyes open.