Car Shopping 101: How to make the most out of shopping for a new vehicle

If you are new to the car buying scene you may have experienced some common feelings: Exhaustion, anxiety and confusion. Sound like you? It doesn’t have to be like this! With the help of a trusted automotive professional and a little research on your part, you can find the perfect vehicle for you and your needs without experiencing any of these seemingly terrible feelings! It can actually be quite an enjoyable experience for those who love to shop or are anxious to get behind the wheel of their very own vehicle. We’ve come up with a short list of the MUST do’s when considering buying your very first vehicle.

Research

Think you know what kind of car you’re looking for? Take the time to research features and models that are important to you. Doing a little research before stepping foot on the lot will help you find the best deals and know when to walk away. It can also empower you to make decisions and help calm your nerves. When you understand more about what you’re buying you will know exactly where you money is going and you may also lift the rose colored glasses on some features or add ons that can be costly. If you aren’t a big music lover, paying for that sound system really isn’t worth the extra speaker, maybe you don’t need the 8-way power adjustable seat but you would like leather detailing. Learn the value and assess what’s important to you before you’re overwhelmed by choice and price tags.

Decide on a Budget

When you are really excited about that big purchase it can get easy to get lost in all the features, add ons and new model upgrades thrown your way. To keep yourself from getting distracted by all the bells and whistles of a new vehicle, make a budget prior to heading to the dealership. If you have any shopping companions, tell them your budget and get them to help you stick with it! It’s easy to say yes to the added features when you see their seemingly small price next to the larger, overall price of your vehicle but these things add up quickly. Don’t let $400 or $200 here and there throw off your finances. If you’ve done your research you know what kind of vehicle and the features that you can afford. Stick to it!

Find the Right Sales Staff

Now that you know what you want and you know how much you have to spend, you’re ready to shop! Take the time to cruise a couple different dealerships not just for pricing but for salespeople. Great sales staff will make a difference for you and your vehicle. If you walk on a lot and someone is pushing you into a vehicle you don’t really want, they might not have your best interest at heart. Shopping around will also allow you to find a trustworthy individual to help you find a payment plan that will work for you. Don’t worry, there are not sneaky sales people all over the place, trust your instincts and come armed with your knowledge of how much things cost, and how much you can spend.

Shopping for a new vehicle can seem overwhelming sometimes, especially when you have decided to make an upgrade into a luxury sedan or luxury SUV. Doing a litle research and finding the right sales staff to help can make all the difference and ensure you find extactly the vehicle you're looking for. If you are in the GTA and considering a new vehicle, browse the inventory at Somerville Auto or stop in to see how we can work with you!