Steps To Buying A Car «Editor's Choice»

: Aim to put down at least 20% of the purchase price.

Narrow your list by comparing reliability, safety ratings, and resale values on sites like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds .

Don't wait until you're at the dealership to think about a loan. Shop around at banks, credit unions, or online lenders like those reviewed by CarsDirect to get a pre-approval. This gives you a "cash buyer" advantage and a benchmark interest rate to compare against dealer offers. 3. Research Models and Market Value steps to buying a car

Buying a car is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll make. To get the best deal without the stress, follow these essential steps to navigate the process like a pro. 1. Set a Realistic Budget

: New cars come with full warranties but depreciate quickly; used cars offer better value but require a closer look at vehicle history reports from services like CARFAX . : Aim to put down at least 20% of the purchase price

Before looking at cars, determine what you can actually afford. Experts often recommend the :

6 Steps for Mastering the Car Buying Process | Cleveland, OH Shop around at banks, credit unions, or online

: Finance for no more than four years (48 months).