|
Used cars can be an economical way to get the transportation you need. The price points for great used cars are often significantly lower than those of their brand new counterparts, but knowing how to shop smart is a must if you truly want to find the best deals. If you know you need to buy a car soon, do yourself a favor and learn how to navigate the process effectively. Why Used? When you are on a budget, every little bit counts, and buying used can save you much more than a little bit. Options for used auto in Anchorage are a great value, and you can still get a great car in good condition that will last you many years to come, all without the gut-wrenching price tag. If you plan on selling the car within a few years, buying used helps to minimize the depreciation. New cars depreciate the instant they are driven off the lot and continue to depreciate for the first year. Buying one after that point allows you to sell it at a price much closer to your original cost than if you were trying to sell a car that you bought new. Buying used also means paying less in auto insurance, so you continue to save money even after the purchase has been made. Before You Shop Once you know that you want to go with a used car, you need to set a budget. Decide what you can afford, what kind of price range you’re comfortable with, and what your absolute max needs to be. Often, something great may come up that is slightly higher than your original goal, and you need to know ahead of time how you want to react. Impulsive decisions can lead to regrets and financial frustration, so working out a plan ahead of time is the smartest way to go. Once you know your price range, research types of cars based on your needs. Do you have a family of 7? Do you have a long daily commute? Do you do a lot of driving in the snow? Other factors to consider include safety ratings, insurance costs, typical maintenance costs, and personal preferences. Sun roofs, standard vs. manual, seat materials, and paint color can also factor into your decision. Read reviews and reports to get an idea of what to expect from certain cars. The Test Drive Once you have a car type in mind, it is time to start shopping. A big part of choosing a final car is based on how it drives. A test drive can tell you a lot about the condition of the car (as well as helping you decide if you like how it feels), and you should never buy a car you’ve never driven. When driving, check the brakes, the signals and lights, the sound system and speakers, the adjustability of the seat, any cameras, and the steering. Notice how the engine sounds and how the car handles. A good test drive is not the end-all, but it is an essential step in determining if you should proceed to buy the car. A Checklist When considering buying a used auto in Anchorage, head in with a checklist. Do a look-through of the entire car, looking for damage. Look at the paint, the fabric, and the body of the car. Open and shut everything, push on the car to check the suspension, check each seat, look underneath the car, check out the trunk, look under the hood, test the ports and jacks, and make sure each part is working correctly. Once the car passes your inspection and an offer is made that works with your budget, you can feel good about the deal.
Related Articles -
Used, Auto, Anchorage,
|
