If you’re in the market for a new car but don’t have the money to buy a new one, then it might be time to look into buying a cheap used car from local car dealerships company. With the stigma that surrounds more affordable vehicles, this may seem like a gamble. However, with the proper knowledge and a little bit of work, you can find yourself in a safe car that looks and feels like a newer car.
Adapt to the used car market
The used car market is almost like its own subculture. It has particular terminology and different expectations than the new market. If you want to be successful, you should familiarize yourself with the market before jumping in. Here are some things that you need to know:
Research the vehicle type and model that you are interested in purchasing. Certain models hold their value better than others. This will make it easier for you to know if the used car that you are looking at is a good deal.
Learn the salesperson’s lingo. Although this may seem a little silly, salesmen speak in their own language. Pay attention to the way they talk to you and use their language when negotiating.
Read your contract carefully, and always get a copy of your contract before signing it. This could help you avoid any hidden fees or other surprises.
Be realistic about the price. The standard advice is to figure out what you feel is a fair price for the car. This will help you avoid being taken advantage of when it comes to negotiations.
Take a test drive
The next step is to take a test drive. This will help you get used to the driving environment. If you feel any features would prevent you from safely driving the car, bring it up right away. You want to avoid buying a car that you can’t comfortably drive; that would defeat the purpose.
After the test drive, you should be ready to negotiate a price. Your goal here is to come as close to your bottom line as possible without going over it. Salespeople are trained to get you to go over that line, so don’t let them win.
Check for Original Documents
You should ask the dealer for original documents and valid vehicle registration. You should also ask for an ID card, license or other identification from the seller as well as a number from the car as you will need it to transfer ownership later on. In addition, you can check if there are any reports of stolen vehicles in your area by going to your local DMV and your travel department. Make sure to get original documents related to the vehicle’s registration listed on the dashboard, including manufacturer’s date of manufacture, make, model, odometer reading, bumper stickers or tags stating whether or not it has been hit helped cause damage etc. In case the vehicle registration is not up to date or invalid you can easily get it renewed on vehiclerenew.com.
Research the price of the car online
Before you head back to the salesman, do some research on used cars in el cajon values and prices! This will help you feel confident in your negotiation. You will also have a range of prices to work with, so you can be flexible if the salesman tries to pressure you.
Give yourself an expiration date
If your goal is to save money, then don’t stay in that negotiation for more than 10 minutes—12 minutes at most. The goal here is to get yourself out of that sales office as quickly as possible.
With this technique, you get the quality of a very expensive used car for a fraction of the price.
Remember, just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you have to walk away empty-handed.
Do your research, negotiate, and be willing to talk to a few dealers before settling on the right car. A cheap car doesn’t have to be a bad car if you are eager to put in the leg work and get the best possible deal for the money. Sure, it won’t be a luxury car, but it’ll be something that will get you where you’re going.
