Those who are in the market for a new car have a number of options available to them. One of the best, however, is actually buying used. A person who buys used cars is one of about 45 million people who do every year. So if you’re in the market yourself, consider a used vehicle. But first read these helpful tips.
Who Buys Used Cars?
As we just mentioned, tens of millions of people buy them every single year. Since 200, that number has only dipped to the mid-30 millions thanks to the recession that hit. So you’re definitely not alone.
It used to be that many assumed a person who buys used cars was simply doing it because that’s all they could afford. But that stigma isn’t really around anymore. Nowadays, it’s seen as a sound way to save money while still getting a great deal. In fact, many now see a person who buys used cars as a savvy businessman and those who don’t as a bit of a sucker.
That being said, if you intend on being a person who buys used cars, you should understand the following advice so you make the best choice.
Do Your Research
If you’re shopping for a new car, you’re generally only looking at those models from the current year or shortly before. This curtailed list makes it much easier to do the necessary research.
However, a person who buys used cars will find a number of makes and models from a wide range of years out there. It behooves them, then, to research each model by year if they’re truly considering it.
Buy Certified Used Cars
There’s no better option available than certified used cars. They combine the best of both worlds. On the one hand, you get the affordability of a used car. However,certified used cars are inspected by the manufacturer and given any necessary refurbishments before being put up for sale. So you’re essentially buying a new car but paying less for it because of mileage.
Start by Stonewalling
If you decide to pursue certified used cars, you’ll end up at a dealership. This is fine, of course, but understand that means someone is going to be actively trying to sell you as opposed to how it works if you’re just perusing classifieds.
It’s important that you not give a dealer too much information at first. So, especially if you’re still in the research phase, keep it simple and tell them you’re just looking if they ask. Provide no extra details for them to clink onto as many will try to up sell you or otherwise dissuade you from your more affordable purchase.
Get It Inspected
f course, you may decide certified used cars aren’t important to you or simply find the car of your dreams on a classified site. If this happens, I can’t stress enough the importance of getting the car inspected before you buy it.
Do you know someone who’s good with cars? Do you perhaps have a good relationship with a local mechanic? Can you pay one to offer you an independent inspection?
Leave the person who’s selling the car some kind of collateral and then ask if you can take it to a mechanic. Then have them inspect it and let you know if it’s worth buying and the price they’d recommend. Otherwise you run the very serious risk of purchasing a lemon with no return policy.
This is why, if you’re in the market for a vehicle, you should really check out certified used cars in the area. There will be plenty of selection as well as savings.