Used cars are amazing values if you do your homework first. These tips will help you navigate the used-car-buying process and score you a deal you’ll be excited about.

1. Know Your Budget

How much can you afford … comfortably? You’re not looking for the biggest possible number. When establishing your budget, keep in mind how much you can afford. Factor in something for maintenance unless you’re planning on buying a used car with a warranty.

2. Decide Upon Your Must-Haves

Consider your needs so you can begin narrowing down the cars. Many times with used cars, buyers can afford more than they could with a new model. They can get so excited about the options that they get swept away. However, if you know what you want and need, this is less likely to happen. Need room for sports equipment or camping gear? Looking for reliable gas mileage? Knowing what you want before you fall in love with a car will help you make a wise decision.

3. Decide on a Car or Let Fate Decide

Used car shopping has changed a lot with the internet. Now you can research what’s available without strolling lots. You can decide based on inventory exactly what manufacturer, make, and model you want. Then you can contact the dealership and arrange a test drive. Or you can leave it up to chance and visit the lot to view inventory. 

Both have benefits. Researching online means you can find out about the car ahead of time. Research important things like maintenance costs, insurance, reliability rating, value for your area, and a lot more. However, viewing inventory in person means you will see the most up-to-date cars available. Sometimes vehicles are on the lot before they’ve been added to the dealership’s online inventory. You can score a good vehicle by physically being present before it goes on the web. That’s why knowing what you want ahead of time can help you recognize a good deal quickly.

4. Check the Vehicle History Report

Once you find a car you like, get in. Take a test drive. Imagine yourself behind the wheel. But before you do all of those fun parts, take a look at the vehicle history report. A vehicle history report will give you all the important details that can help you make a smart buying decision like info on past ownership, accident history, title status, and mileage.

5. Negotiate a Good Deal

There are books written about how to do this but ideally, you would be well-equipped with your research. You would know what similar cars go for in your area and the value of the car. Don’t look at monthly payments as much as the total cost of the car. Also, think of other bonuses the dealer may give you that could save you money like warranties or free oil changes.

Finally, work with a straightforward dealer; one like Rath Auto Resources, that’s looking forward to building a relationship with you, not someone who’s just looking for a one-time sale.

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