Did you know that Americans bought over 17 million new vehicles in 2019?
The pandemic has affected new car sales slightly, but there are still millions of people car shopping in 2021. If you’re hoping to purchase a car this year, it can be hard to know where to start.
In this car buying guide, we’ll offer five expert tips to make the process easier. Keep reading to learn more!
1. Start With Likes & Needs
The best new car for you might be different than the best car for your brother/girlfriend/boss/Uncle Joe.
Start by thinking about your current or previous vehicle. What features did you love, and what features did you wish it had? Do you want a similar vehicle, or do you need something different to suit your current lifestyle?
For example, do you have a longer commute to work and you want to prioritize fuel economy? Or did you recently have a baby and you need a safer, roomier new car for your growing family?
2. Get Pre-Approved for a Loan
Just like getting pre-approved for a mortgage makes the home buying process easier, the same is true when you buy a car. Walking into a dealership with preapproved financing shows you’re a serious buyer and gives you more power to negotiate.
Perhaps more importantly, it also gives you a pre-set budget so you’re not tempted to spend more than you can afford.
3. Do Your Research
Are you up on the latest technologies and safety features? Do you know which vehicles fall into your preapproved price range (and which ones are simply beyond your budget)? Do you know how much you’ll pay for insurance and how large of a monthly payment you can afford?
Shop around online on quality sites like Serra Jackson to get a feel for what’s out there. You should also spend some time comparing car values on Kelley Blue Book or other reputable sites.
4. Consider New & Used Cars
We all love the look of a shiny new car, but it’s not your only buying option. In many cases, you can get a pre-owned car that’s still in excellent condition for thousands less than you’d pay for a new model.
There are pros and cons to both paths, but your goal should be to keep an open mind and consider all your options.
5. Get Ready to Negotiate
Whether you visit a dealership or contact a private seller, the advertised price is rarely the price you’ll end up paying. Sellers usually price their vehicle higher than its actual value because they expect buyers to negotiate.
Know the vehicle’s fair market value ahead of time so you’ll know if you’re getting a good deal. Try shopping at the end of the year when dealerships are clearing out inventory to make room for next year’s models.
If all else fails, never be afraid to walk away and keep looking. Remember: There’s always another new car to consider.
Find the Perfect New Car for You
Buying a new vehicle is a huge decision to make. Bookmark this car buying guide for reference as you begin your car shopping adventure!
Now that you’re ready to buy a new car, what’s next? Keep browsing our site for more great auto tips and advice.