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New or Second-Hand Car: Buying Tips

Buying Tips

Whether it is new or second hand, buying a vehicle can be one of the most expensive purchases you will have in your life. To make sure that you make a smart investment, consider the tips below as you try to work your way through the buying process. The tips will help you obtain the best price on a vehicle which tells its value.

Set a Budget

Determine what you can afford before you begin your search for a car. This will help you in ensuring that you don’t face any problem paying for your monthly dues for the length of your car loan. Also, this will give you more confidence as you are prepared to negotiate with a car dealer.

Buy a Car
Buy a Car

Create a List of Vehicles you Prefer to Buy

Perhaps you have been eyeing on a number of vehicles on the road. Begin by doing research on the models that appeal to you on independent car information websites. Learn about the features and other important details on the vehicles to ensure you get what you want based on your car needs.

Know about the retail and invoice prices for each car if you wish to buy a new one. Also, determine the price ranges depending on the model’s mileage and year if you buy a used car. Find vehicles which cost at least 5% less than your set budget to have extras for fuel, insurance and other car expenses.

used car buying
Buy a Car

Weigh the Advantages and Disadvantages of both New and Used Cars

If you are planning to buy either second hand or new car, make sure that you have an understanding of the pros and cons of each. Shopping for a new car means that you will get fewer features for your money; however, you get a new car warranty and maybe some free maintenance if you get a vehicle from a particular manufacturer. If you purchase a second-hand vehicle, you can expect to buy more vehicles from your money; however, you will not know the full history of the vehicle and you get a shorter warranty period or none at all.

Buying-a-Used-Car
Buy a Car

Learn about All Ownership Costs

Keep in mind that your costs for a vehicle are not only related to the car payment. The car information site you obtained information from can provide average ownership costs for every vehicle. Although it is best to calculate the car insurance and fuel costs on your own based on your location and driving record, such websites can help you obtain average maintenance and repair data.

It is necessary to have an idea of the total ownership costs. Remember to include the resale value unless you have the confidence that you will keep your vehicle for a long time. You may discover that a competitor’s model that is the same as the vehicle you want to buy has a lower ownership cost.

Car
Buy a Car

Don’t Find Auto Financing at the Dealership

Certainly, it is easy to get financing at the dealership. However, this may not be the best deal. Essentially, dealers act as middlemen to provide you a car loan. They get payment for every loan they write. Although you may find a good interest rate for a car loan at the dealership, it still pays to shop around. Be wary if the dealer provides you a loan at a rate that is far better than the rate of other lenders. Some dealers lure potential clients to get them to sign a contract.

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