Buying a car is not exactly like buying a pair of socks. There's a multitude of aspects to take into account if you want to get a good car, especially if you're going for a used one. Therefore, here's a short, 7-step plan for it, that you will surely find useful.
Step 1. Establish your budget
Especially if you're taking a loan to purchase a car, it's very important to determine a budget and stick to it, to avoid burning a whole into your bank account that will stick for a long while. Also if you're taking a loan, research all the possibilities for financing. Don't overlook taxes and other expenses related to the purchase of a car, like title, registration, insurance etc.
Step 2. Determine what car would fit you best
Depending on where you live, whether you have a family or not, depending on your budget, and other factors, you must make the selection of a car that fits best. Of course, this may not be easy, but there are so many options out there, you'll surely find at least a couple to fit to your needs. Be sure to choose a car that you like as well, because if you just don't feel comfortable with it, you'll probably sell it soon, and you'll have to go through this whole process again.
Step 3. Find the car's current value
Once you've set your mind on a certain car, conduct a bit of research and find its current value, beginning with the retailer price for a new one. Then check the prices for used models of that car. As soon as you have a pretty clear picture what would be the price for a used car if the model that you seek, it's time to find a deal.
Step 4. Find a dealer
It's best to begin with the dealers in your area. Make a list with all of them and give them a call. Mark the dealers on your list that have the type of car you're looking for in their lot. In case you want to buy a car from a private owner, it's very important to ask them why they are selling their car, ask them about its condition, how it was used, ask for maintenance records etc.
Step 5. Get an HPI car status check
Especially if you purchase the car from a private owner, it's best to get a car status check. This way you just might find out whether the car has been in an accident, or maybe was under a police investigation, whether the car has been re-painted, or the number plates have been changed and many other aspects that the seller may be keeping away from you. This stands for buying a car from a dealer as well, if it's a used car. And a car status check is not exactly expensive, ranging from $6 to $30.
Step 6. Test drive
Once you've set your eyes on a car, it's time for an in-depth inspection and a test drive. For the inspection, check the VIN number, mileage, paint condition, the functionality of the systems, safety systems, wheels and tyres, what's under the bonnet and whatever else you can think off. For the test drive, check how breaks and safety systems (ESP, ABS) work, manoeuvrability, steering, engine sounds etc.
Step 7. Negotiate price
Last but not least, try to get the lowest price possible. Make sure you remain within your budget. In case you're buying from a private owner, there's a chance you'll get closer to the lowest price possible, plus you will know the previous owner and have their number in case there are any questions to ask later.
Step 1. Establish your budget
Especially if you're taking a loan to purchase a car, it's very important to determine a budget and stick to it, to avoid burning a whole into your bank account that will stick for a long while. Also if you're taking a loan, research all the possibilities for financing. Don't overlook taxes and other expenses related to the purchase of a car, like title, registration, insurance etc.
Step 2. Determine what car would fit you best
Depending on where you live, whether you have a family or not, depending on your budget, and other factors, you must make the selection of a car that fits best. Of course, this may not be easy, but there are so many options out there, you'll surely find at least a couple to fit to your needs. Be sure to choose a car that you like as well, because if you just don't feel comfortable with it, you'll probably sell it soon, and you'll have to go through this whole process again.
Step 3. Find the car's current value
Once you've set your mind on a certain car, conduct a bit of research and find its current value, beginning with the retailer price for a new one. Then check the prices for used models of that car. As soon as you have a pretty clear picture what would be the price for a used car if the model that you seek, it's time to find a deal.
Step 4. Find a dealer
It's best to begin with the dealers in your area. Make a list with all of them and give them a call. Mark the dealers on your list that have the type of car you're looking for in their lot. In case you want to buy a car from a private owner, it's very important to ask them why they are selling their car, ask them about its condition, how it was used, ask for maintenance records etc.
Step 5. Get an HPI car status check
Especially if you purchase the car from a private owner, it's best to get a car status check. This way you just might find out whether the car has been in an accident, or maybe was under a police investigation, whether the car has been re-painted, or the number plates have been changed and many other aspects that the seller may be keeping away from you. This stands for buying a car from a dealer as well, if it's a used car. And a car status check is not exactly expensive, ranging from $6 to $30.
Step 6. Test drive
Once you've set your eyes on a car, it's time for an in-depth inspection and a test drive. For the inspection, check the VIN number, mileage, paint condition, the functionality of the systems, safety systems, wheels and tyres, what's under the bonnet and whatever else you can think off. For the test drive, check how breaks and safety systems (ESP, ABS) work, manoeuvrability, steering, engine sounds etc.
Step 7. Negotiate price
Last but not least, try to get the lowest price possible. Make sure you remain within your budget. In case you're buying from a private owner, there's a chance you'll get closer to the lowest price possible, plus you will know the previous owner and have their number in case there are any questions to ask later.