Car Purchase Considerations

Think Before You Buy

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Okay...you have researched your best new or used car, truck, SUV/CUV or minivan, and you think you have a good idea of what you are going to buy. STOP! Are you sure? You are about to enter into a massive commitment. Either a multi-year purchase plan, a lease or a cash purchase of thousands of dollars is on the horizon. Are you really sure?

This is the time to take honest stock of your personal situation. How will the vehicle be used on a regular basis? Not the occasional time that you might drive the soccer team to the after-game pizza party or a lunch trip with all your co-workers. Do you really need all of those seats?

When it comes to deciding on what motor to buy with your new car, is the V8, V6, inline 5, or inline 4 the best option? And you need to decide if you should look at a hybrid version or a diesel. Again, you have to take stock of your personal situation and how the vehicle will be used on a most common basis. Accounting for occasional usage or needs only leads to waste.

Now that you have chosen the vehicle honestly, it is time to go shopping. New or used car negotiation is a moment that people love or hate...and most people hate it. As discussed in last week's column, always remembering that YOU are in charge is the best possible policy. If you are not happy at any time, walk out. Without the promise of your signature, your salesperson has zero power over the sales process.

And when it comes to the price negotiation, never ever tell your salesperson how much you expect to spend per month. That is gold in a salesman's hands, as they can now build a purchase plan that caters to their needs--not yours. Always negotiate to the actual final transaction price for the vehicle. Let the monthly payments work themselves out from that number and not the other way around.

You made the best first step by coming to www.intellichoice.com , where we help you "Chose Your Car Wisely." If you have any specific or direct questions, please feel free to email them to info@intellichoice.com and I will get answers back to you as soon as possible.

Posted on 2007-07-30 | Permalink | |

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