| One of the most important aspects of car shopping is | | | | much as you can about your car of choice, what |
| planning for your purchase. Before you begin shopping | | | | people like and what they don't like. For most people, |
| for your new or used car, you want to make sure | | | | pricing is an important factor, so have some ideas |
| you're prepared. Here are some questions to ask as | | | | before you start shopping around. Arm yourself with |
| you're getting started: | | | | information before you go into the dealership so you're |
| - How soon will I need a car? | | | | not at a disadvantage. |
| - What type of car do I want? | | | | Shop around - Take some time to look around, see |
| - What type of car do I need? | | | | what's out there and make some decisions on what |
| - What can I afford? | | | | type of car you really want. Think about it: How many |
| - What's the best way to go about finding a car? | | | | people do you know that purchase the first home they |
| - What strategies shall I employ? | | | | look at? Not many, right? Now consider that buying a |
| Car buying can be a frustrating experience when | | | | car is the 2nd largest purchase you'll probably make so |
| you're not prepared, but by asking and answering | | | | you need to make sure you have what you want. |
| some questions upfront it will make your experience a | | | | Shopping around for a car has gotten a lot easier, |
| much smoother one. You don't want to find yourself | | | | thanks to the internet, which allows you to maximize |
| without a car or a plan. Here are a few tips to get you | | | | your time and do a lot of research and shopping |
| started: | | | | without having to leave the comforts of your home. |
| Research - The more educated you are about the | | | | Start by visiting some of the dealership sites. You'll feel |
| process, the better off you'll be. Research is important | | | | a lot less pressure. This way you don't have to worry |
| to starting your car search because it gives you | | | | about the tactics of aggressive sales personnel, feeling |
| perspective. Research helps you clarify a few things | | | | rushed, or ambushed. You can also visit dealerships in |
| like: What type of car do I want, what's the value, | | | | your area. Dedicate one or two days just for looking. |
| selling price, good and bad qualities, etc. | | | | Take a friend and make a day of it. Visit different |
| Cars, like people, have flaws. It doesn't matter whether | | | | dealerships, talk to different sales staff, drive the cars |
| you're buying new or used, there will be some great | | | | around and then go back and do more research if you |
| selling points and some negative ones. Find out as | | | | have to. |