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3 Habits of Highly Effective Car Buyers

Written by Bill DeBoer | Jun 8, 2015 4:56:43 PM

Just like with other major purchases, there are a handful of specific strategies involved in buying a vehicle. In fact, research shows there are three habits of highly effective car buyers worth noting. With just a little bit of planning and these expert tips on buying a new car, you can get the vehicle you want for the price you want every time.

Set What You’re Willing to Spend Before Car Shopping

Before you start looking for a new car, determine what your budget is going to allow you to spend. Everyone wants the best deal they can get, but many car buyers sabotage themselves by not setting a maximum budget before they start shopping. Decide on the highest price you'd be willing to pay and then stick to it. Try these tips to determine your budget:

  • Choose an amount lower than what you feel your budget can easily handle.
  • Set a budget that would allow you to buy two cars. If you can’t double up, then your limits are too high.

Following these two guidelines will ensure you have the budget you need to know how to get the car you want at the price you want.

Do Your Research Before You Begin

Effective car buyers view research as one of the most powerful negotiating tools for purchasing an automobile. It’s important to determine your precise car needs by asking some important questions. Is fuel efficiency important to you? What features do you want included? What size of a vehicle do you need/want? Are you interested in the resale value of the vehicle? Once you answer these questions, you can look for vehicles with the chosen characteristics. Solid research will help you determine an approximate price you should expect to pay. When you approach a dealership, you will know what you want. Having this information at hand can help you get the vehicle you want for a price that is reasonable.

Remove Your Emotions from the Equation

There’s a reason a salesman will ask you to take a test drive as soon as you walk on the lot. They are trying to get you to fall in love with the vehicle and make a purchase based on the emotional attachment you develop. This can influence your judgment and affect your negotiation skills. When emotions run high, you are more likely to forget to negotiate altogether. 

In order to keep your emotions from getting in the way of making the purchase you want at the right price, make a backup plan before going car shopping. Remember, there is a vast array of cars on the market and you are not locked into a single lot. Don’t be afraid to detach your emotions and go to another location to purchase a similar vehicle. In the end, your goal is not just to have a particular car, but to acquire a vehicle that will ultimately meet your needs and your predetermined budget. Don’t let emotions get the best of you.

If you're ready to start shopping for a new car, contact us. We can help you find the right fit at the best price.