The first-time car buyer many
envision is a starry-eyed teenager desperately seeking a clunker they can
afford that will get them from Point A to Point B without exploding. This is
sometimes the case, but many don’t fit this stereotype. Some are college grads
looking for a ride to their first real job. Other may be adults with an income
that allows them to replace their old hand-me-down vehicle.
Car buyers are deeply varied, but all
need to heed the same advice: Do you research! Start with these essential
questions:
How much can I spend?
This is
the question every potential car buyer should start with, after day dreaming
about sports cars. This includes everything from the price to the registration
to the insurance. Consider every payment carefully!
Your car
should be affordable, but that’s not all you commit to buying with a vehicle.
To make sure it’s legal, you also need to title and register it. Insurance is
also a must. Keep in mind that, along with these expenses, you may also have to
pay for any repairs, replacements, or maintenance needed.
Make
sure that your monthly budget can cover all these expenses. Establishing a
realistic budget can help you choose a vehicle. Don’t buy what you can’t
afford!
What car suits my needs?
This is
a question that begs many other questions, mostly to do with your lifestyle.
How many passengers do you need your vehicle to hold? What do you carry? Do you
have a long commute? Asking yourself what you really need in a vehicle can
narrow down the vast market of cars out there, and help you pick the right one
for you.
For
example, if you drive long distances often, you’ll need a car that gets good
gas mileage. Or, if you have to cart a lot of stuff around with you, a van or
truck could be better for you. A dealer at your car dealership in South Jersey can help you with these questions,
pointing out the best vehicles for you.
Do I need help?
One
important step that many overlook is talking to someone who has been through
the process before! By getting the expertise of someone, a friend or family
member, who has bought their own car, you can get help navigating the world of
vehicle purchase. If you know a mechanic, even better. He or she can also help
you inspect the car.
Buying a
vehicle can be scary, but going in prepared is a huge help. By asking yourself
these questions before you make a purchase, you can get the right car at the
right price for you.