Powerful tools when buying a car
We love our cars. Big or small, domestic or foreign, luxurious or utilitarian, black or white, practical or extravagant… we just love 'em!
Automobiles are a big part of our heritage as Americans and they play a major role in our lives. And, although they are often referred to as our “second largest investment” after a home, they are not an investment at all, but a liability. They tend to lose value as they age and they cost money to run and insure. With that in mind, it’s important to be practical in choosing a vehicle and be sure we’re getting the best deal possible. Read on for some things to consider when buying a car.
Research, Research, Research
Did we mention research? This can be the most powerful tool you have when buying a car. New or used, knowledge about what you’re seeking and the processes you’ll go through to get it are a great way to assure you are getting what you want and need.
Search the Internet and look through automobile/consumer guides and magazines to find what you can in regard to the vehicles that interest you. Look at resale values, repair histories, safety ratings and anything else you can find. Talk to people you know or those you meet that own the vehicle(s) you’re interested in; word of mouth really is the best advertising—good or bad. Time spent learning what you’re getting into could save you major headaches down the road.
Get to know some of that “car dealer” lingo if you can, as well. When terms like “dealer holdback,” “preparation charges” and “add-on interest” start flowing from a salesperson’s mouth, it helps to know what they are talking about—search around the Internet or the local library.
