Sensible Car Buying Tips When You Just Can't Decide

By Lee Dobbins

"Help! I'm in a dilemma. There are numerous cars to choose from in the advertisements but which one should I get? They range from luxurious cars to economical sedans, family vans to utility vehicles, sports cars to trucks, and the like. They're just so many and they all look grand".

Do you have similar problems with the one above? Do not despair. Allow me then to give you some friendly advice you may find helpful in choosing the right car for yourself. You don't have to be a car aficionado or an expert. You just have to know the basics. I will share with you the essentials when considering buying a car whether it is brand new or second-hand. Then you can work your way around your "wish-list". Okay. So here goes.

Before anything else, ask yourself, "Why do I need a car"? Know your lifestyle. You need it because it will take your kids and the neighbor's kids to school after which you can do your groceries and other errands. You need it to get to school or to work. You need it because you are always on the go. Or you just simply want a car. Whatever! Your answers can vary, but the most important thing is that you know what you need. This can help you pick the type of car you will buy. If you are a family person and you do errands, it is useful to get a big car like say a van. But if you just drive by yourself to school or work then it is best to get a sedan. Or if your budget allows it you can get a sports car or a luxury car. By knowing what you need in a car will make the tips I will impart even more sensible and practical.

Decide on your budget. This is perhaps the most acknowledged factor most people consider when buying almost anything. It just has to be in the top 3 of your list. Knowing your budget means setting a limit. It sets a maximum value of the cars you can acquire. Do not worry because this is not a bad thing. It helps you actually in planning your finances and loan. Make sure though that your budget is parallel to the type of car your getting based on your needs. But if the type of car you need will overboard your budget then trim it down to one notch and consider other essentials.

The third tip can differ for many but nonetheless, it is important. Settle on three brands with the same type to compare and contrast. It is important to have comparisons. More or less, it is priced in comparable range. Putting competing brands side by side will give you an idea what is being offered in the car's performance, safety, services, parts and accessories, and other vital features. This allows you to weigh things and evaluate the best car that suits your needs and wants especially if you are very keen with the car.

Having said the third advice, get to know more about the car inside and out. Familiarize yourself. I'm not just talking of the marketing information the advertisements provide or what the dealer and sales executive have told you about the car and the company. Read car reviews. Listen to what other customers, who actually bought the car, have to say about the car and the company with an open mind. Names of the brands are quite reputable. Look them up. Better yet, go to a designated dealer closest to you and do a test drive. It is the customer's privilege after all.

Finally, after all that planning and decision-making ask for a good deal from you sales executive. There's no harm in asking, right? Some dealers offer its customers discounted prices, free items and services offered and the like. Avail these offers. You will find out how the company values its customers. Buying a car is not just a one-time trip to the dealer. It's not like "you bought it, we sold it, end of story". The value of your money does not end with the car; it goes on with the after-sales service. Now that's a good deal!

Remember these 5 sensible tips. These are the essentials in buying a car. They are simple yet practicable. Happy hunting!

Lee Dobbins writes for http://carbuying.subjectmonster.com where you can learn more about how to come out ahead when buying a car.