CarMax, which claims the title of nation’s largest retailer of used cars, now claims the title of first U.S. auto retailer to make both the car-buying and -selling experience available within ChatGPT with the launch of its car-shopping app in ChatGPT’s app store.

In a news release, the company said its new online experience allows consumers to search for vehicles, explore listings and get vehicle value information within ChatGPT, “creating a new way for customers to begin their car buying and selling journeys.”

CarMax said the app brings its inventory of more than 45,000 vehicles and recent offer experience into ChatGPT, helping customers navigate their car-shopping journey by combining the conversational, generative nature of the AI platform with CarMax’s extensive inventory and vehicle information.

The app is designed for customers to shop CarMax’s live inventory using conversational language, using prompts such as “an SUV with a third row under $25,000” or “a small AWD car with good tech” to find vehicles that meet their needs.

In addition, car sellers can ask about their current vehicle’s value within the app, CarMax said, and receive instant information about offers on their make and model with a direct path to CarMax’s online offer tool.

“Used-car shopping online can often feel overwhelming,” CarMax chief innovation and people officer Diane Cafritz said. “By bringing CarMax’s nationwide inventory and shopping tools into ChatGPT, we’re giving customers a simple, reliable way to explore their options within a platform they are already using. This integration is another step in making the car-shopping experience more seamless than ever before.”

Case helps Habitat for Humanity turn vacant lot into family homes

What had been a vacant lot in North Lauderdale, Fla., just 10 months ago is now the site of new homes for eight families, thanks to Habitat for Humanity of Broward County — and, in part, to Rick Case Automotive Group CEO Rita Case.

Case was among a group of local business owners who came together to turn the plot of land into a neighborhood of homes. And to make it even more special, those new homeowners helped build their homes with their own hands.

“Just a year ago, this was just vacant land, and now today we’re celebrating eight duplexes,” said Case, whose dealership group is based in Sunrise, Fla. “It’s going to be amazing for this community of eight families to really have their own home.

“Home ownership is getting increasingly difficult. That’s why I am so excited about this Habitat community and others like it. We are making a difference every single year.”

Case and North Lauderdale Mayor Samson Borgelin joined new homeowner Portia McKay and her sons, Alfredo and Jayden, to celebrate the new home Case sponsored.

The City of North Lauderdale also played a major role in making homeownership possible for the families, donating the land and nearly $400,000 for this project.