If there’s one word to describe car dealerships, it is pushy. A car salesman has the tendency to work for commission; the more deals they close, the fatter their paycheck. It’s no wonder why car shopping can be pretty stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. The following questions will help you purchase a car before heading to the dealership.Should You Get an Auto Loan?
Should You Get an Auto Loan?
Not everyone can pay cash up front which means that you may need to get a loan. If you decide on a loan, figure out how much you can afford to pay every month. Because loans need to approve you for an auto loan, you will have to abide by their rules. Also, not all banks are the same which means that their terms can vary.
Are You in Need of a New Car?
This question may sound a bit silly, but it’s practical. Depending on where you live, you could be saving thousands of dollars by relying on public transportation. Reliable trains and buses at the heart of the city make it easy for its citizens to go from point A to point B without the hassle.
How Much is Too Much?
If your budget is small, continue to save! Remember that if you purchase older cars, you’ll be shelling more money for maintenance. Additionally, create a savings account for emergency purposes. There’s nothing like preparing for a rainy day than to tap into your savings account when you need it the most. Besides car payments, take insurance and gas into account. How much can you afford?
Will You Trade-in Your New Car?
Find out how much is the trade-in value for your vehicle. Be armed and ready with information before the car dealer begins to haggle you. Be smart with your negotiation and let them know about your trade-in after you settled on a price tag. Why? They may convince you to pay more money because of the “discount” you’re getting from the trade-in.
What Type of Car Do You Want?
While aesthetics play a role in car buying, remember to put safety and reliability first. Research about your desired car with a simple online search. Take the following features into account: drivability, resale value, gas mileage, invoice price vs. retail price, and space.