Purchase of a vehicle is something most of us will experience sooner or later, whether new or used, so here are a few key points to keep in mind when making this important purchase decision.
Preapprove yourself, wait until the end of the month when dealerships are trying to meet sales quotas, and avoid unnecessary add-ons – these are among the key tips when purchasing a vehicle.
Start Early
Car buying is a significant purchase that should not be done quickly over the weekend. Start early by doing research with reliable sources like Kelley Blue Book or Consumer Reports to build up an informed view.
Once you have established an affordable budget, start collecting price quotes from dealerships and private sellers of your desired cars. This will give you an idea of prices while helping in negotiations later on.
Maintain your current car while saving for a new one; this will allow you to avoid car payments while having reliable transportation.
Do Your Research
Undergoing research before visiting a dealership will make the car-buying experience far simpler. Utilizing tools such as Kelley Blue Book and Consumer Reports can help narrow down your options until you find one that best meets your needs.
Always read reviews of local dealers before making your selections, to ensure you’re dealing with an honest and reputable dealer.
Know Your Budget
Cars can be costly investments, so it is wise to stay within your budget when purchasing one. Financial experts advise limiting car expenses to 10% or less of take-home pay post-tax – this includes monthly car payments, fuel purchases, maintenance, insurance premiums and service plans.
Setting a price range will help narrow your car search to vehicles within it. Utilize online tools and automaker websites for an accurate overview of which cars you can afford.
Note that getting preapproved for financing before visiting a dealership will help protect you from being taken in by financing terms that could end up costing more over time.
Know What You Want
Preparing to shop for a car requires having a plan. Be sure to conduct adequate research, obtain preapproval for loans and compare prices before visiting dealers.
Prioritize what’s most important to you so as not to overpay for features you don’t require, such as all-wheel drive which may seem appealing, but may not be essential if your primary driving will not include off-roading or snowy conditions.
Be mindful that vehicle prices vary as demand and supply fluctuate, to prevent being shocked by an unexpected surge in price.
Don’t Be Impulsive
Car purchasing is an important financial decision and should not be undertaken hastily. While it can be easy to be lured in by flashy looks or extra features of an appealing vehicle, you must remain mindful of your budget and the features necessary for you.
Once you know your budget for purchasing a vehicle, be firm about sticking to it. Resist pressure from salespeople that want to sell you something you don’t need or can afford; otherwise you could end up making an expensive mistake that depreciates quickly.
Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate
Many individuals fear having to negotiate with a car dealer, yet doing so could cost them thousands in savings.
Negotiation is an integral part of purchasing a vehicle and must be approached in an even-handed fashion. Remembering your budget and not getting stuck up over exact numbers are vital in this regard – remember, however, that vehicles only possess their value depending on who is willing to purchase them at that particular moment in time.
If a dealership doesn’t play fair, don’t be intimidated into staying. A polite request for another salesperson will often be granted without any hard feelings being stirred up.