To the OP:
Its really up to you. If you want something that should be good to go, with an aftermarket warranty, go with a dealership. There can be good finds everyonce and awhile. If you want to meet the previous owner, go private. Some will swindle, and play a fool, but be sure you know how to read people. If it looks like a turd, smells like a turd, and acts like a turd, its a turd. Clues to bad private owners are "Never noticed that", "Never did that for me", "Thats not important", "Doing that for a long time"... Usually those are my red flags.
Its a buyers market right now, and blue book is high for most vehicles. Take no crap, and the worst thing you can say to a salesman is, I'm leaving. Thats when the gloves come off, and you will get the best deal. And don't mention a trade (if you have one) until you agree on the price of the Jeep, then bring in the "oh, I guess I have this to trade in... " That way you get the best price before the fluff your trade in price..
Rob L.