Vehicle Buying Tips for The First-Time Owner
Buying a vehicle for the first time is both exciting and stressful. You will either be laying down a large amount of money or paying a monthly note for the next several years. You need to be sure you are making the right choice and are ultimately happy with your purchase. Here are five vehicle buying tips that will help you make a good decision for your unique situation.
- Set a Budget
Before you step foot on a car lot or browse through the local car ads, set your budget. It’s very easy to spend more than you can afford after you’ve fallen in love with a vehicle. A good rule is to set your budget at 20 percent of your yearly income. This, of course, doesn’t work out for everyone, but it’s a great starting point.
- Must-Haves
Everyone has a list of must-haves when it comes to a vehicle. Perhaps you commute long distances and need good gas mileage. Maybe you have children and need a family sedan or SUV. Decide on the things that you can’t do without and make a list.
- Skip It
Just as there are must-haves, there are things you can skip. If you live in California, for example, heated seats aren’t really a necessity. Sit down and make a list of the things that you don’t care about. This list will help you narrow down your choices.
- Research
Once you’ve come up with a budget, decided on what you need and what you can pass over, do a bit of research. Online is a good place to start. Look for the vehicles that meet your needs and your financial abilities. Once you’ve decided on a few models, look for dealers in your area that stock them. If you’re buying used, visit or call the dealership to see if they have what you are looking for or can find it for you.
- Test Drive
There are a lot of people who think they have found the vehicle they wanted only to decide against it after a test drive. Once you’ve found your vehicle, schedule a test drive. You are going to have this vehicle for the foreseeable future so make sure it’s the one you want.
First-time car buyers are understandably nervous. With a fair amount of research and budgeting, you will be sure to choose the right vehicle for you. For more information about purchasing your first vehicle or to inquire about those we have available, contact us at your convenience.
