subject: How to Buy Used Cars Easily [print this page] How to Buy Used Cars Easily How to Buy Used Cars Easily
Before you go hunting for your next used car, you'll want to do plenty of researchyou might just find that the car you thought you wanted isn't the car you really want. Once you have a good idea of what used car you want to buy, you want to tap into your local car scenes and classified ad community. Keep your ear to the ground to find that great deal and try not to jump at the first car you like. Shopping for used cars is like hunting--patience is key!
It's a good idea to also set a fairly strict budget before diving into the fray. You can get a good idea of the costs of the used cars you want from Kelley Blue Book and similar resources. When budgeting, keep in mind costs other than the initial cost of the car, like insurance and registration.
Now you want to decide if you want to buy from a dealer (and get all the perks of doing so, like warranties and credibility, etc) or from a private party (usually cheaper but less reliable). Once you find the car, you will want to test drive it. The test drive should last a good while and you should really get the most out of the experience as you can...this isn't a joy ride.
Once you settle on a car, bargain the seller downwhether it is a used car dealer or a private seller. Bargaining can be tricky, but it has a big reward. Start low and work your way up, and don't be afraid of pulling a "walk out" (or at least threatening it). Even if you really want the car, you should not be paying sticker. If you are buying from a dealer, the salesman might be quite good at controlling the negotiations, but if you stick to your guns and firmly demand a lower price, you will more often than not win...salespeople work off commissions, after all.
Once you settle on a price, just drive home in your new used car! (But don't forget to buy insurance, register the car, buy tags, etc etc)
