Purchasing a car for the first time can give you some anxious moments. To ease your stress given below are 10 tips that will effectively guide you through the car buying process.
1. Work out a naturalistic budget:
It is desirable to make the complete down-payment, however the hefty price tags call for a financing option. One should carefully work out the cost of living and then calculate the amount left for car installments, insurance, fuel price and maintenance overheads.
2. Consider purchasing a used car:
If your financial position restricts you from purchasing a used car you can go for a used car. Consult your trusted dealer to help you find a well-maintained car of your choice. Buying a used car will bring down your budget as well as stress.
3. Assess your transportation requirements:
The first time buyer would be overwhelmed by the sheer varieties of cars that glut the market. However, one should figure out the car that would satisfy their requirement. For instance, you need to find out whether you need a sedan, a compact car, an SUV or a MUV.
4. Let your needs take precedence:
While buying the car, look for features that may come in handy over a period of time although they may appear extra at the moment. This will save you from doing rounds of car dealer again within a few months. The dealer will try to convince you into buying a car that may carry features redundant to your needs. Considering the parking fee, fuel prices, insurance costs and other incidental costs going through the roof; it is prudent to buy a car that exactly fits the bill.
5. Research thoroughly before reaching a decision:
Online portals offer a slew of information and perspective regarding the cars on sale and their suitability to a particular group. Trust your instincts. Refer expert, car owner and car makers reviews. Ask your friends about the mileage and ownership experience.
6. Carefully pick up a dealer according to your convenience:
The dealer should be chosen based on the location, showroom ambiance, responsiveness to consumer needs (based on feedback’s from past car buyers) and professional attitude.
7. Opt for a test drive:
Test drive cannot be relegated under any circumstance. It gives a first hand experience of what the car is like from behind the wheel. The steering feel, seat height, visibility, control, throttle tip-in can be accurately gauged by driving the car for a significant amount of time not lesser than five minutes.
8. Ascertain the correct purchase price:
Once the decision to purchase a particular model has been arrived at, online sites should be checked to know the price tag at which the model is being purchased by others in your area. Credit union or showroom contact can also offer the correct perspective. Start haggling over the price from a lower range and then gradually work up to a reasonable rate.
9. Lining up the finance:
Various financing options should be explored. A poor credit rating can thwart your efforts to arrange the finance. You can approach the credit union, insurance agency or the bank to know their willingness to finance your car. The dealer’s option should be accepted if it is competitive.
10. Savor the process:
The automotive market has started to look up. Your passion for cars will be amply rewarded if you take quality time out to diligently pursue the entire process with zeal.
This article was originally published on CarCluster Blog.
