Tips for First-Time Car Buyers

Buying your first car is an extremely exciting time, but it can also be stressful. You've never purchased a car before, so you might not know what to look out for or how to find a good deal.

Luckily, there are a number of tips for first-time car buyers that can help you make the right purchase for you.

Everybody's needs are different when it comes to buying their first car, but using these tips for first-time car buyers will get you on the right track and help you find the car of your dreams!

Decide What Type of Car Suits Your Lifestyle

Different cars are better for different environments.  If you live in a rural community, a truck may be the right vehicle for you.  If you live in an urban area, you'll likely want a car that is gas efficient and easy to drive and park in the city.

Before you even start looking at different cars, take the time to write down what you envision your life to be like with your car.

What are you using it for most?  How many people need to be able to fit?  Do you need lots of storage space?

All of these things will play a role in what car you purchase.

After you figure out what type of car you want, research the different cars in that category and pick a few to add at the top of your wish list.

Set a Budget

New and used cars are hitting record prices right now.  The average new car costs $45,000 , and the average used car is just over $25,000 .

You need to figure out how much money you have to spend on your first car and how much of a monthly payment you can afford if you choose to get a car loan.

Financial experts suggest you spend no more than 10% of your take-home pay on car payments every month.

Anything more than that, and you're putting yourself at risk of not being able to make your payments if an unexpected tragedy happens in your life.

Use a Car Dealership

Car dealerships sometimes get a bad reputation, but using a dealership is one of the best tips for first-time car buyers.

Whether you're purchasing a new or used car, using a dealership is a better choice than purchasing a car from a private seller.

The two main advantages to using a dealership when purchasing a used car are:

• Access to financing options

• Peace of mind knowing the car is in the condition they say it is

As a first-time car buyer, you don't know the ins and outs of cars yet or what to look for when buying a used car.

When you use a reputable used car dealership like ALM Cars , you know exactly what you're purchasing.

ALM Cars also offers a 5-day exchange policy and nationwide shipping. You can easily purchase your first car without worrying about buyer's remorse if a car you like even more comes on the lot the day after you purchase your car.

Take a Test Drive

You never really know whether or not you'll like a car until you get behind the wheel and take it for a test drive.

You may think you found your perfect car until you get behind the wheel and realize the door panel is causing you a major blind spot.

Taking a test drive is one of the biggest tips for first-time car buyers that is often ignored.

It is tempting to purchase your first car without driving it, but that can be a mistake.  If you do purchase a car without test driving it, be sure to use a dealer like ALM Cars that offers a generous exchange policy.

Conclusion

Purchasing your first car is a massive milestone.  It is easy to get caught up in the excitement and rush into buying your first car, but that can hurt you in the long run.

The average American keeps their car for 8.4 years .  Your first car is going to be in your life for a long time.  Be sure to take the time to find the perfect car for you now and in the future.