Do you want to have the best car buying experience? Look no further. Obtaining a quality car can seem like an extremely difficult process, what with all the browsing, cross-referencing and paperwork you have to do just to get your foot in the door. Fortunately, the age of the Internet means information has never been easier to obtain. Below are the top five tips for cultivating the very best car buying experience, from managing your credit score to choosing your brands at the right dealer.
Used Over New
First things first — you’ll want to visit a used auto dealer when seeking out a car. Sure, it’s tempting to save up for the shiniest new model you can get your hands on…but why bother with the excess price? There are more than enough quality used cars on the market with only an extra year or two to their lifespan, perfect for giving you a long-lasting vehicle with none of the damage you’re fearing. After all, a dealership can’t even put their cars up for market until they go through a rigorous testing process. Do yourself a favor and save money without skimping on quality when buying a car.
Know Your Facts
Not sure how popular used cars are? Let’s take a look at some statistics. The average vehicle will have three owners in its lifetime, meaning you’re far more likely to see a car for sale that’s already been tried and tested. According to a recent 2015 Used Vehicle Market Report, there are nearly 40 million used cars sold industrywide — this is considered the best annual tally in eight years!
Seek Good Prices
In today’s busy economy you’ll want to save as much money as possible. The most frequently searched price range for a used vehicle is at around $5,000, though some check out $4,000 if they’re feeling a little curious. With prices averaging at least $30,000 for new vehicles and nearly $18,000 from some used car dealership, you’ll want to have all your options available to you. Remember to check out a good used car dealer over buying from an individual — not only will they have a better selection to choose from, they’ll have a variety of useful resources to help you create the best car buying experience.
Maintain Your Score
A good credit score will open your options for quality used cars. Likewise, a poor credit score can reduce your ability to get loans and receive a car insurance that suits you best. When buying a used car you need to consider the total costs of financing, not just the average monthly payment — compare payment plans side-by-side if need be so you’re more equipped to handle a 36-month or 60-month plan. Each one will have different monthly payments, finance charges and overall costs.
Stay On Top Of The Game
It’s all about staying on top of the game in a market that changes on a dime. Between private-party and dealership, nearly 40 million used cars exchange hands year after year. If you want to buy a vehicle that’s around five years old or so, you should consider one that’s certified pre-owned (also shortened to CPO). Remember that most banks won’t give you a loan for a car older than four or five years old! The sky’s the limit for buying the car you’ve always wanted. With these useful tips in your back pocket, the best car buying experience is just within your grasp. Check out your local used car dealerships or federal way auto sales shop and put this knowledge to good use!
