Used car shopping can be extremely stressful. You want to find a vehicle that you like, one that’s in your budget, and one that checks all the boxes you have. You also don’t want to be hounded by a sales person the entire time you’re browsing the lot – however you do want to have their full attention when you’re ready to start talking about purchasing.
Some people absolutely love the back and forth that happens when you start negotiating, while others hate it. If you’re contemplating buying a used car, these tips should help you to overcome any challenges that you may have.
1. Shop where the vehicle is.
So, for example, say you’re looking to purchase a used BMW. Instead of going to a “used car lot”, go, instead, to a dealership that deals specifically in BMW. They will almost always have a selection of used BMWs that they can sell you, and you’ll rest comfortably knowing that the vehicle you purchased was properly looked over by a mechanic who knows the machine.
2. Shop during the day.
It’s usually easier to shop in the evening after you’re done work but if you shop during the day, you’re much more able to see any sort of dings or scratches that you’re likely to find when you’re used car shopping.
3. Know your budget.
If you go in knowing exactly what you can afford to pay each month your sales person will have a much easier time finding you a vehicle that will fit your budget.
4. Get a good idea of what your current vehicle is worth before you even go to the dealership.
There are plenty of online websites that will be able to give you a good estimate of what your vehicle is worth. If you’re planning on trading your current vehicle in, make sure you have a solid idea of what it’s worth so that you get the most you can for the trade in.
Remember: don’t get stressed about used car shopping! Try to look at it, instead, as an adventure and a challenge and have fun!
