1). Be cautious. Approach the car dealership like you approach a very appealing new date. You know how careful, even hesitant you can be when you see a fascinating stranger? That attitude works really well when it comes to buying your first car.
2). Don’t depend on the seller of a car or car financing to “educate” you about their business. Lots of car dealers are going to want to spend more time with you the moment they think you have money. But even the most honest seller can’t really help you. So what’s the message? Don’t even go near a car dealership until you’ve done your homework!
3). Never buy a car without checking out the cost of collision and liability. Did you know that it can cost you five times as much to insure an eight-cylinder 2-door sports car than it can to insure an identical car with a four-cylinder engine? Sellers of cars generally don’t tell you things like that. Avoid buying a rare, expensive, and sporty car as it attracts high insurance premiums. An affordable, common, and easier to maintain car is great for a first time buyer. You can then progress further upwards as your income and driving experience increases.
4). Never buy your car on your first visit. All dealerships want to sell you the first time you visit them. Why? They make a lot more money if you don’t have time to compare their deal.
5). Never buy a used car without having it checked out by a mechanic. Most first-time car buyers spend all their money on a car, then don’t have repair money for the almost inevitable problems any used car will have. Don’t be that dumb: find out what’s wrong with the car before you buy, then budget the money you’ll need to put it in good working order.
6). If you’re buying used, never automatically finance with the dealer. Here’s a way to always know who is cheaper: Insist that the dealer gives you a copy of their finance contract and compare it with other financing firms. If the financing deal is not cheaper then find another financing option.
7). If your first car is going to also be your first major credit experience, don’t blow it! How you pay your first loan will affect your ability to get credit for decades. Do this right, and you’ll never regret it.
8). Remember that the price of the car isn’t where most sellers make their profit. The profit is made on add-on charges. Everybody will sell you a car cheap, new or used, if you know how to ask. But the same sellers can make thousands on you in other charges. They could charge extra for options, servicing, registration and clearance.
9). Research your options. See if there are more sources you need before you can buy yourself that car, don’t rely on just one.
10). Insure your car comprehensively, especially where it is your first and more so, when it’s brought on credit. A number of firms have good auto insurance products, including specific policies targeting lady owners.
