Buying a used car can come with a lot of hassle. But you’re not the only one dealing with it! In fact, you’re far from alone; Between dealership and private-party sales, roughly 40 million used cars change their owner annually in the U.S. And given the multitude of choices, finding the right car for you is always a challenge.
But you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of steps that are meant to assist you in finding and buying the perfect used car. Purchasing a car can be pretty difficult especially if this is the first time you’re doing, but we’re here to help you with all the details that you need to know. Let’s get started.
Step 1: Set a Budget
Many buyers are taking out a loan to pay for their car. As a rule of thumb, the car payment should not be more than 20 percent of the take-home pay. If you’re on a tight budget, you should consider spending even less. Keep in mind that used cars usually require a little extra attention (maintenance, new tires, and so on). Do not forget to account for the other ownership costs, such as insurance and fuel. If you’re looking at a car whose warranty has expired, make sure you set aside a “just-in-case” fund for unexpected repairs.
Step 2: Make a List of Targeted Used Cars
It’s true that the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord usually make for decent used cars. However, they are usually a few thousand more expensive than a Ford Fusion or Kia Optima. But these are also good cars, so keep an eye out. Looking to save money? Consider more than just one brand. You could build a list of three cars that fall within your budget while also meeting your needs.
Step 3: Time to Check Prices
What you’re shopping for will drastically influence the prices. You can look for used cars in independent used-car lots, used-car sections of new-car dealerships, used-car retailers, and websites with private-party sellers. Of the four categories, you will probably find the lowest prices with private-party cars. Look around a bit to see the average price of the car you’re interested.
Step 4: Look for Used Car Sales in Your Area
Building your target list can be a tricky process. Use the websites of used-car marketplaces to save time. To find exactly the car you want, you can add filters to your search, including the miles on the car’s odometer, its features and price, and dealer’s reviews.
Step 5: Check the Vehicle History Report
You should always plan to get a vehicle history report for the car you want to buy – even if you’re buying it from an acquaintance. It’s an essential step that allows you to make an informed decision. AutoCheck and Carfax can help you find out vital information about the car, such as rolled-back odometers or salvage titles (when the insurance company declares a car a total loss). You can get this information based on the car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) or just the license plate number.
Step 6: Contact the Seller
Once you find a prospective car you like, you can be tempted to run out and see it in person. However, you should call the seller first as a way of establishing a relationship and verifying the information about the car. If you’re buying from a dealership, a phone call can spare you the trouble of arriving at the scene and finding out the car is no longer in stock. If you like the answers you’re getting, it’s time to set up an appointment to test-drive the car. It is better to take a look during daylight hours; it’s easier to assess the car’s condition that way.
Step 7: Test-Drive the Car
You should always test-drive a used car and you should know what to check. Keep in mind the features you’re set on and check to see if the car meets your needs. Can you get in and out of the car without banging your head? Can you customize the seat for a comfortable drive? Is the “check engine” light on? If so, ask the seller about it and get the problem checked out before buying. The tires, the brakes, and the inside-outside appearance of the vehicle should also be checked.
Step 8: Negotiate and Get the Paperwork Done
Negotiating should be based on facts and the kind of budget you’re willing to pay. If you have a plan and are reasonable, you can get a deal pretty easily. If you’re happy with the final price, get ready to deal with the paperwork. Dealerships will have you sing the contract in the finance and insurance office. You can also buy warranty, prepaid service plans and so on. Just make sure to double check any dealership sales contract.
If you are buying a car from a private party, make sure you get the title and registration properly transferred on your name. Close the deal correctly if you want to avoid after-sale hassles. Before you pay up, ask for the title (or the pink slip) and have the seller sign the car over to you. If possible, check with your local DMV to make sure the care does not come with past-due registration fees. It’s vital to never leave without the car’s insurance.
If you don’t know where to start, we want to present to you one of the used car dealerships you can start your research with. Full disclosure: Marietta Luxury Motors may not be the perfect dealership to buy from, but it can help you get a pretty good picture of what you should expect on the used-car market. It is also a company that sells luxury cars at more affordable prices, if that’s what you’re looking for.
About Marietta Luxury Motors
Founded in 2006, Atlanta Luxury Motors has been one of the many dealerships serving the Southeast region. The company provides “tremendous value and longevity for luxury pre-owned vehicles,” according to their website. Marietta Luxury Motors is conveniently located in various locations, including Gwinnett, Mall of GA, Marietta, Kennesaw, Newnan, and Roswell. This way, the dealership’s customers can experience the brand’s offers in just a short drive.
According to company’s own description, Marietta Luxury Motors takes pride in their friendly, professional, and knowledgeable sales staff takes. First-time or recurring customers can find what they need in the comfortable and hassle-free environment. The brand wishes to provide customers with the dream vehicle at an affordable price.
You can browse the vast inventory of Marietta Luxury Motors to find the vehicle you’re looking for. The website offers a neat experience, allowing you to filter your search in terms of price range, mileage, manufacturing year, and models. The majority of the cars sold by this company come from the manufacturers leasing departments. The motto they work under is: “Safe and reliable cars, with low mileage.”
Top Picks: 2012 MINI Cooper
Who says the Mini Cooper can’t be an attractive choice? The 2012 Mini Cooper is a sporty compact that will allow you a wide range of add-ons and customization. Not to mention that this tiny car is stylish and fun to drive. But what else makes the Mini Cooper special? You will be glad to know all available engines are quick and fuel-efficient. At the same time, the razor-sharp handling keeps the Mini permanently glued to the road, while the interior is upscale and classy.
However, in terms of cons, the car can offer a jittery ride, particularly with larger tires. Mini Cooper is also quite costly compared with most rivals. The newer model comes with slight changes to the features included in default and options packages.
Important features:
- Bluetooth, Hands-Free
- Brake Assist & Cruise Control
- Steering Wheel Controls
- Heated Driver and Passenger Seat
- Keyless Entry
- Rear Spoiler
- Sunroof
- Infotainment System
- Leather Seats
2011 Toyota Camry
Are you looking for a comfy A-to-B driving experience? Or are you interested in a more engaging ride in-line with midsize sedan competitors? Whatever your answer might be, the 2011 Toyota Camry has got you covered. The spacious and comfortable interior comes with above-average rear seat space. Meanwhile, luxury and sport trim levels will meet different driving preferences, just like the user-friendly interior controls.
Important features:
- Bluetooth, Hands-Free
- Cruise Control & Brake Assist
- Keyless Entry
- Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel
- Satellite Radio
- Infotainment System
- Heated Leather Seats
2013 Volkswagen Jetta S
The 2013 Volkswagen Jetta might be a little rough around the edges, but the generously-sized compact sedan still comes with excellent engines. Not to mention that the Jetta has preserved enough of its German personality to make it stand out. Among the most useful benefits are the big backseat and trunk, the fuel-efficient turbocharged engines, and the highly-responsive hybrid powertrain. However, it also features some subpar cabin materials while being pricier than its rivals.
Important features:
- Bluetooth, Hands-Free
- Brake Assist & Cruise Control
- Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel
- Side Air Bag
- Steering Wheel Controls
