Tips for Buying Used Cars
Buying a used car is a very exciting and enjoyable process. To help you make the most of this journey, we at Mark Wahlberg Chevrolet have put together this list of helpful tips for buying used cars. In this guide, shoppers in the areas of Columbus, Grove City, and Dublin will find all kinds of helpful information for navigating the buying process. Read ahead to learn more!
Plan Ahead
When you’re thinking about buying a car, you want to start thinking about it ahead of time. In fact, you’ll want to start thinking about buying your next used car around six months to a year in advance. This is because buying a car requires paying a down payment which is usually between 15% and 30% of the total price of the vehicle you’re buying. You’ll want this time to save up so you can go into your purchase feeling confident.
Don’t Forget All Your Different Payments
The first thing you’ll want to do after you start saving up for your next used car is put together a detailed budget. You should spend no more than 20% of your monthly take-home pay on your car payments. However, this shouldn’t just cover the payments towards your car loan. It should also include your car insurance payments. You should also put a portion of this 20% payment back for emergency maintenance and repairs.
Don’t Skimp On Your Research
Research is one of the most important parts of the car buying experience. There are several phases that you’ll want to do throughout the buying process including researching…
• The inventories of the used car dealerships near you
• Potential private sellers that could have what you want
• The best used vehicles for your particular needs
• The car history reports of the vehicles you’re looking at
• The value of the vehicles you’re considering using resources like Kelley Blue Book® and Black Book®
Completing thorough research at every stage of the process will help you make the most informed purchase possible, meaning you’ll get exactly what you want.
Ask Every Question That Comes to Mind
Another crucial part of your used car buying research is asking questions. The dealership or private seller is there to help you through the process, so take advantage of their knowledge and expertise. Don’t hesitate to ask them any question that comes to mind throughout the buying process. Even if it seems silly in your head, it could end up being a crucial piece of information in the grand scheme of the process.
Get Shopping For Your Next Used Car Today!
We at Mark Wahlberg Chevrolet are thrilled that you’re thinking about making your next car a used car. At our dealership, we have hundreds of high-quality pre-owned cars in all shapes and sizes. Shoppers in the areas of Columbus, Grove City, and Dublin can get the ball rolling on your new used car purchase today by browsing our inventory right on our website.
When something catches your eye, give us a call so we can schedule you for a test drive!