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Thursday, December 26, 2024

Top Ten Things to Know When Car Buying

If you are considering buying a new car this 2014, please take some time to read about these important facts:

1. Be sure you’re getting the right vehicle. This may seem obvious, but you could wind up unhappy if you haven’t carefully considered how many people and how much “stuff” you need to carry.

2. Assess the worth of your current car. Whether you plan to trade-in or sell your car, your current car can be an important factor in your budget. Checking the value beforehand can be helpful. Consider selling it directly instead of just trading it in; this may mean a significant difference in what you get for it.

3. Decide whether new or used is right for you. Cars today are built better than in the past, so certified used cars can make a lot of sense. However, if you get a rebate or other discount, the numbers may favor a new vehicle.

4. Consider leasing vs. buying. Leasing a car provides lower monthly payments than buying a auto loan, but it’s not for everyone. If you can’t afford a down payment, or you trade your car in every 2-3 years, leasing might be a good option for you.

5. Research and set your target price. The internet has made it easier than ever to learn the dealer’s cost for each vehicle and its options. Use BuyingAdvice.Com to find out what dealers in your area are asking for the vehicle of your choice.

6. Figure out financing before you shop for the car. If you plan to get a loan, check with your credit union or local bank to find the lowest rates. Getting pre-approved for a loan will give you confidence when negotiating.

7. Negotiate the purchase. Using bids from several dealers from BuyingAdvice.Com, keep the focus on the dealer’s invoice price, without going to showroom after showroom.

8. Negotiate leases, too. In the complicated realm of leasing, the dealer will have the upper hand unless you know your stuff. Be aware of the various terms and aspects of leasing.

9. If you hate haggling, consider a car-shopping service. Car-buying services, such as websites or discount clubs, make things easy with no-haggle prices. But with them, you get quotations from only one dealer. Consumers that get quotes from several dealers near you get even better prices.

10. Don’t let the deal-closer cancel out your savings. The finance manager isn’t just there for the paperwork. That person wants to sell high-profit financial and mechanical add-ons that are seldom worth the money.