Whether you’re in the market for a new vehicle because yours is old and pushing 200,000 miles or simply because you’re ready for an upgrade or need something a little more suited to your needs, be sure to consider these three questions before you buy. Thinking about these factors will help make the buying process smoother for you.
What kind of car am I in the market for?
Car manufacturers release new and improved models on practically every car they make each year. While this is great, it can also add some confusion to the car-purchasing process. Take some time to really figure out what you are looking for in a new vehicle. If you’re going to be carting your children to school or other extracurricular activities, you probably aren’t looking for a sleek sports car. Likewise, you won’t want a minivan if you often drive solo.
How much am I comfortable spending?
Defining a budget is the most important step to ensuring you don’t bite off more than you can chew with your new purchase. Putting together a price range will ensure that after fees and taxes, you will be comfortable with your payments and will narrow down your options.
What features are a must for me?
Do you need blind spot monitoring? Are heated seats a requirement? Can you do without a touch-screen console? Certain features will mean that you’ll require the upgraded packages, but if you can do without other perks, some base models may be an option for you while helping you save a little too!
Do I really need a new car?
This one is probably the most important question that you can ask yourself. Are you car shopping out of boredom? If you are, that’s okay, but it’s essential to evaluate whether or not the timing is right for you. Don’t forget that life sometimes throws curveballs, so if you commit to a new car, be sure to have a backup plan (and emergency funds)!