At this point you have some idea of what features are out there and you've given some thought to what your automobile will need to do for you. There are so many makes and models available, however, that you may need to narrow down the field; or, if the whole subject is a new one to you, you may feel the need for some suggestions.
Ask People - Ask your friends, neighbors, and relatives about the cars they own. Now is the time to ask your mechanic which make and models he or she recommends. Ask strangers how they like their vehicle if they're driving one you fancy. With the vast number of vehicles available, you need all the information you can find to narrow down the choices.
Auto Consultants - If you have no idea what kind of car you need or how to find it, the services of an auto consultant could be beneficial. They charge a flat fee (usually $100), and will usually come to your home or workplace to discuss your family's automotive wants, needs, and financial situation. When your session is over you should have a clear idea of what type of vehicle you need, and you should have some specific models to look at. Ask your friends if they can recommend an auto consultant. If not, check your yellow pages but be sure to ask for references and previous experience. Sales consultants are available free of charge at larger dealerships and used car superstores but of course their inventory influences their recommendations, so stick with an independent consultant. Some internet sites offer similar services for less money, but I prefer to talk face to face with a real automotive expert, and consider the $100 well spent.
The Notebook - A motor vehicle purchase is a major expense to be taken very seriously. I strongly recommend getting a 9"X12" combination notebook/portfolio for brochures and printouts, and for notes on prospective vehicles. Whenever you come across information that applies to your buying situation, write it down! When you take a vehicle on a test-drive, make sure to enter your observations in the notebook. If you print out a price list of recommended vehicles, put it in your portfolio. If a dealer gives you a brochure, put it in the portfolio. All of your information will be organized and available to you whenever you need it. Your portfolio will help you to organize your thoughts, and may provide a small insurance policy if confronted by an aggressive salesperson. Its very presence identifies you as a buyer who has done your homework. Good salespeople will be glad to see that: it only makes their job easier. Greedy salespeople won't be so happy. It shouldn't be too difficult for you to see the difference in their reactions.
The Next Step - This may be the time to go to some car lots -- new and used. It's really fun to look at all those different cars and trucks. Remember though, this trip is an informational excursion, not a buying trip. Leave checkbook and credit cards at home if you are prone to impulse buying. Be sure to take the notebook along on these visits. Keep notes on any serious prospects which may require a return visit. Use this trip to start determining the features you particularly want.
Ask People - Ask your friends, neighbors, and relatives about the cars they own. Now is the time to ask your mechanic which make and models he or she recommends. Ask strangers how they like their vehicle if they're driving one you fancy. With the vast number of vehicles available, you need all the information you can find to narrow down the choices.
Auto Consultants - If you have no idea what kind of car you need or how to find it, the services of an auto consultant could be beneficial. They charge a flat fee (usually $100), and will usually come to your home or workplace to discuss your family's automotive wants, needs, and financial situation. When your session is over you should have a clear idea of what type of vehicle you need, and you should have some specific models to look at. Ask your friends if they can recommend an auto consultant. If not, check your yellow pages but be sure to ask for references and previous experience. Sales consultants are available free of charge at larger dealerships and used car superstores but of course their inventory influences their recommendations, so stick with an independent consultant. Some internet sites offer similar services for less money, but I prefer to talk face to face with a real automotive expert, and consider the $100 well spent.
The Notebook - A motor vehicle purchase is a major expense to be taken very seriously. I strongly recommend getting a 9"X12" combination notebook/portfolio for brochures and printouts, and for notes on prospective vehicles. Whenever you come across information that applies to your buying situation, write it down! When you take a vehicle on a test-drive, make sure to enter your observations in the notebook. If you print out a price list of recommended vehicles, put it in your portfolio. If a dealer gives you a brochure, put it in the portfolio. All of your information will be organized and available to you whenever you need it. Your portfolio will help you to organize your thoughts, and may provide a small insurance policy if confronted by an aggressive salesperson. Its very presence identifies you as a buyer who has done your homework. Good salespeople will be glad to see that: it only makes their job easier. Greedy salespeople won't be so happy. It shouldn't be too difficult for you to see the difference in their reactions.
The Next Step - This may be the time to go to some car lots -- new and used. It's really fun to look at all those different cars and trucks. Remember though, this trip is an informational excursion, not a buying trip. Leave checkbook and credit cards at home if you are prone to impulse buying. Be sure to take the notebook along on these visits. Keep notes on any serious prospects which may require a return visit. Use this trip to start determining the features you particularly want.
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