For some people, buying a car is fun. From finding the right vehicle to haggling for the best price, they enjoy the ride as they do their research and make important decisions that lead them toward driving away with their new wheels. But for others, the process might not be as good of a time. If finding a new car isn’t urgent, you can take your time and enjoy the process. However, if your old trusty rusty is officially down for the count, or your car has been totaled, buying a car is more about urgency than fun.
Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your car buying journey, there are steps you can take to relieve stress and make the experience more enjoyable.
Tips for Buying a New or Used Vehicle
These five areas should be a focus in your car buying journey whether you’re buying new or used. We cover these more in-depth in our free video series (click on the image above) and have included a summary of each segment below.
- Securing a Monthly Payment You Can Afford – Determining what you can afford and how much of a down payment you can make without dipping into your emergency fund.
- Understanding the True Cost of Auto Ownership – When you buy a car, you’re committing to more than just the monthly loan payment. Make sure you’re prepared to cover all expenses.
- Getting the Most for Your Trade In – Don’t rely on someone else to tell you what your trade in is worth. Get the best deal by going into the transaction prepared with information on value and vehicle history.
- Finding the Best Vehicle for You – Shopping around can help you get the best price and decide which dealership incentives are most beneficial for you.
- Maximizing Your Purchasing Power – Knowing what you can afford and getting preapproved for an auto loan by your preferred financial institution can save you time and make negotiations go much smoother at the dealership.
How to Shop for a Car Online
If you’re ready to buy, you may be considering shopping for a car online. While this has become increasingly common, there are different things to keep in mind when shopping online versus in person for a car.
For instance, you’ll need to consider Internet security and ensure you’re visiting reputable websites and not handing information over to a scammer.
Additionally, you may need help from a specialized staff member, such as the Internet Sales Manager at a dealership, to ensure your experience goes smoothly and you don’t miss any important information or paperwork.
