The world of exotic and luxury cars—think Lamborghini SVJ, McLaren 765LT, Rolls Royce Cullinan, or Ferrari SF90—is exhilarating, but it’s also fraught with risk. Many dealerships don’t buy these cars outright. Instead, they accept them on a Sale or Return (SOR) or brokerage basis. Your prized SVJ or Cullinan sits on their forecourt, waiting for a buyer, while you wait for your money. For buyers, you might be about to hand over six figures for a car the dealer doesn’t even own. If a business goes into administration or acts dishonestly, both sides can lose out. Here’s how to protect yourself.

GVE London Administration Notice

On 1 September 2025, supercar dealer GVE London officially appointed Farheen Qureshi of Parker Getty Limited as administrator, following a Notice of Intention to Appoint Administrators filed at the High Court. GVE London, which specialises in super and hypercars and operates many sale or return (SOR) arrangements, is now under the control of licensed insolvency practitioners. The administrator’s role is to seek the best outcome for creditors, which may include selling assets or restructuring the business.

General tips

• Check Companies House filings: Overdue accounts or sudden changes in directors are a big yellow flag. If a business can’t file on time, ask yourself why—even if they have a showroom full of supercars.

  
  

For Buyers

Buying an exotic car is a dream, but it’s also a major financial commitment. Here’s how to avoid costly mistakes:

• Always get a dealer invoice in your name. If a dealer asks you to pay the owner directly for a Lamborghini SVJ, stop and ask why. This can be a sign the dealer doesn’t have clear title or is trying to avoid responsibility. If the dealer goes bust before the sale is completed, you could lose both the car and your money.

  
  

• Run HPI/finance checks yourself. Don’t rely on the dealer’s word, even for a Cullinan. Use reputable services to check for outstanding finance, previous accidents, or theft. Cross-check MOT history and service dates for consistency—especially for cars with complex service requirements like the McLaren 765LT.

  
  

• Commission an independent inspection Exotic cars often have hidden issues that only a specialist can spot. An inspection can reveal accident damage, poor repairs, or expensive maintenance needs.

  
  

• Ask for proof of title and ownership. Make sure the dealer has the legal right to sell the car. Ask to see the V5C (logbook) and check that the registered keeper matches the seller.

  
  

• Follow up in writing, After any important conversation or agreement, send a follow-up email to the dealer summarising what was discussed and ask them to confirm or reply if anything is incorrect. For example, if the dealer promises a full service or warranty, email them: “Just to confirm, you’ve agreed to include a full service and 12-month warranty with the purchase—please let me know if I’ve misunderstood.” This creates a clear written record you can refer back to if needed.

  
  

• Don’t pay in cash or to a personal account. Use traceable payment methods and insist on paying into a client account if possible. Ask the dealer in writing: “Will my funds be held in a separate client account until cleared?” Request written confirmation and, if possible, ask for the account details or a letter from the dealer’s bank confirming the account is designated for client money. If a dealer is reluctant or evasive about this, treat it as a warning sign. Using a client account is standard practice in many professional industries and is one of the best ways to protect your money during high-value transactions.

  
  

• Be cautious with part-exchange deals. Make sure the value and terms are clear and documented.

For Sellers (SOR or Brokerage)

Entrusting your Lamborghini SVJ or Rolls Royce Cullinan to a dealer is a leap of faith. Protect yourself with these steps:

• Insist funds are held in a client or escrow account until cleared. Never let the dealer mix your money with theirs, whether you’re selling a Rolls Royce Cullinan or a Lamborghini SVJ. If the dealer goes into administration, funds in a client account are safer.

  
  

• Agree, in writing, a max payment window post-sale and late-payment penalties. Don’t leave payment open-ended, especially when the sums are as high. Specify how quickly you’ll be paid after the car sells, and what happens if payment is late.

  
  

• Confirm who insures the car on site and who pays prep costs if it doesn’t sell. Don’t assume you’re covered—ask the question, even for a Ferrari SF90. If the car is damaged or stolen, you need to know who is liable.

  
  

• Ask for weekly written updates: Enquiries, test-drives, offers. If you’re not getting updates, your car might not be getting attention. Request details on viewings, feedback, and any offers received.

  
  

• Retain the V5C (logbook) until payment is received, or use a trusted escrow service. This helps prevent unauthorised sale or transfer.

  
  

• Clarify all fees and commissions upfront. Some dealers charge for valeting, photography, or storage. Make sure these are agreed in writing.

  
  

• Check the dealer’s financial health and reputation. Look for overdue accounts, recent changes in ownership, or negative reviews. If the dealer is struggling, your car or money could be at risk.

  
  

• Don’t be afraid to remove your car if you’re unhappy. If updates stop or the dealer becomes evasive, act quickly.

If Things Go Wrong

If the dealer goes into administration or bankruptcy act fast. Contact the administrator immediately, provide proof of ownership or payment, and register your claim. But be aware: you may be treated as an unsecured creditor, and recovery is often difficult.

Final Thought:
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. In the world of high-value cars, the best protection is a clear head, a paper trail, and the courage to walk away when it doesn’t feel right—even if it means missing out on your dream car.

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