9 tips to buy a low-priced used car
Buying a used car is one of the best ways to save money on the purchase. It is also possible to get all the features and accessories one wants in a pre-owned car that would otherwise be extremely expensive in a brand-new car. Though a cheaper alternative, buying a pre-owned automobile can still be a costly affair. To avoid that, one should spend some time carefully considering the purchase decision and preparing for negotiations.
1. Determine a budget
Before one starts looking for used cars online or at dealerships, one must determine how much they are willing to spend. The budget should be set by considering the upfront cost of the car, repairs it might need, and new accessories or other add-ons. While setting a budget, one should also take into account maintenance and auto insurance costs.
2. Get pre-approved for financing
Before finalizing the used car, one should consider getting approved for an auto loan through a traditional bank, online lender, or credit union. As part of prequalification, some lenders may let one explore potential interest rates without affecting their credit score. Lenders may also let one apply for preapproval and receive a formal offer, giving one around 30 days to shop.