TIPS FOR BUYING A CAR ONLINE SAFELY
Most people cringe when they think about having to visit a car dealership when they’re looking to purchase a new car. These days, part of the process can be completed online. Many dealerships across the country now have part of the process ready to be started through their website. This allows you to do your own research and negotiate the price of a car from the comfort of your own home quicker and easier than ever before.
With many of the car-buying tools available to consumers online, the balance of power has now been tipped in their favor. Anyone is easily able to look up the MSRP of a vehicle and other things such as trade-in values, incentives, user reviews, inventory selection and even recent car sales transactions. If using the internet to buy a vehicle is new to you, below are some of the top tips to get you through the process.
LOCATE THE RIGHT CAR FOR YOU
These days, most people use the internet to determine the kind of car they are interested in finding and buying. Searching online is also a great way to find out more about the options available for the specific type of vehicle you are interested in. There are many tools online to help you figure out your budget, monthly payment and the full cost of ownership. Experts recommend not forgetting to check ratings, expert reviews and consumer reviews before you make your decision.
DETERMINE WHAT YOU CAN COMFORTABLY AFFORD
While searching for a vehicle to purchase, you will need to figure out what you can comfortably afford. When comparing the same vehicle from different dealerships, be sure to compare the same price point. Essentially, you want to know exactly what the dealership is going to charge you to buy the vehicle. Don’t forget to include upgraded options and fees associated with purchasing a vehicle when figuring out the total cost.
RESEARCH TRADE-IN VALUE
If you are wanting to trade in your current car towards the purchase of your new vehicle, you should also research the trade-in value. Most people trust using the Kelley Blue Book value for their used vehicle. You don’t have to trade in your vehicle to liquidate it. You also have the options of selling your car to a private party for cash or to a used car dealership such as CarMax. Most people choose to trade in their used vehicle towards the purchase of their new one because it is convenient. However, this is not a guaranteed way to get the most money for it.
HAVE FINANCING READY BEFOREHAND
Experts say consumers should never take a dealer’s financing offer at face value. The advertising is used to attract consumers, but many buyers are typically not eligible. If possible, it is best to shop rates with your own banks and credit unions. This will allow you to shop for a new vehicle as a cash buyer and will allow you to focus on the price of the vehicle without having to worry about financing. If you are low on funds for the down payment, consider an online title loan to get the money you need quickly.
CHECK LOCAL INVENTORY
If you are looking to buy locally, is best to stay away from the online comparison tools. Instead, check each local dealer’s website separately to compare what they have in stock.
Photo Credit: Copyright 2019 Angel Mosqueda / Car Fanatics Blog
