7 Insider Tips for New Car Buying
Whether you're shopping new cars for sale in Harrisonburg,VA every year or you hold out until the last sputter, it pays to be an informed car buyer. And you know what?
Here at Joe Bowman Auto Plaza, we love informed buyers! Having all the information up front makes the transaction quicker, easier, and smoother for both parties.
That's why we put together 7 points to consider for new car buying. We hope it helps you to become a more informed!
Know What You Like and Dislike About Your Current Vehicle
We love it when buyers come and tell us everything they loved and hated about their current vehicle. It means they've given careful consideration to what they want in their next car, truck, or SUV.
And that's important for both buyer and dealer. The clearer you can be on what you want, the easier it is for us to help you get what you want.
Here are some questions that help us get clear on what you're looking for:
• Do you want the same kind of vehicle you currently have? Or have your needs changed?
• If so, what kind of vehicle would fit your lifestyle now?
• Is fuel economy an important consideration?
• Do you want the latest technology on your new vehicle?
You can probably add a few more questions to the list!
Know the Current Value of Your Vehicle
That's a critical piece in the car buying world because it affects how much money you'll need for the transaction. If you own your vehicle free and clear, it has value. What is it?
Knowing that will help you if you're looking to trade it in. Or, if you have not finished paying off your current car loan, you'll need to subtract that amount from your vehicle's current value.
Do you owe more than the vehicle is worth? If so, you'll need to figure that amount into the cost of your next vehicle.
The best way to determine the value of your current car is to go to the Kelley Blue Book site. Look up both the trade-in value and the Kelley Blue Book Private Party Value. Both will be helpful in negotiating for your new vehicle.
Determine Your Monthly Payment
There are two pieces to this part of the transaction. Determine your down payment and your monthly payment. Knowing the trade-in value for your current car is helpful here!
Get Pre-Qualified and Inquire About Financing
It's important to know what you can afford to buy before you begin your search. You can get pre-qualified right on our website.
You can also get dealer financing with us. Our rates are as competitive as any of the banks in Harrisonburg, VA. Plus, because there is no third party involved, the time it takes to go through the paperwork is quick.
However, if you would like to finance through your own bank, we can do it, too! Joe Bowman Chevy has an excellent reputation with local lenders.
Just understand that it will take a little longer because both your bank and our dealership have paperwork to complete.
Know the Fair Price Range of the Vehicle You Want to Buy
If you've been doing some car shopping on our website, you already know that our new car pricing comes in under the MSRP.
For used car buying, our vehicles are generally priced below the Kelley Blue Book value. Even so, each person needs to do their own homework and feel good about the price the dealership is offering.
We encourage you to do the same! We feel confident you'll appreciate the care we've taken to treat each transaction fairly.
From Shopper to Buyer
It's important to feel confident when you're shopping for a new car. Make sure you have the following information and you'll shop from a place of strength:
• The value of your current car
• The equity in your car
• The monthly budget for your new car
• The cash/equity for a down payment
• Gotten pre-qualified for a car loan
Online and In-Person Contact
Today, there are two ways to work with us. Many people start out by contacting us online. Either they have a specific vehicle they want to test drive, or they want to discuss negotiations.
Sometimes, almost the entire transaction is performed online and by phone.
The other way is to come into the dealership and discuss with a salesperson what you want. We will work with you from there.
It all depends on you!
As an informed car buyer, you should be able to negotiate easily with the dealer. You've got all the facts in place about your current car, what you want from your new vehicle, financing, and so on.
Because of your preparedness, new car buying will be a snap!
Learn more about the Joe Bowman dealership. Stop by and visit us or check us out online.
