Car Buying Tips In a Covid Society!

As we come close to wrapping up 2020 I've been thinking more and more about how many different industry's and businesses have been affected, especially the Automotive Industry. For me personally I've been working in the car business for over 7 years. I've seen a huge shift in the way customers perceive buying a car based off of all the changes that have been implemented this last year. We must adapt our ways of doing business to cater to the rapid changing environment we are now faced with. A lot of companies have transitioned into Home Delivery models and Virtual Appointments. Customers are able to handle most of the car buying process without having to step foot in a dealership. What I've personally seen and experience this last year has been rather shocking, But I believe in a good way. Even though car buying for most people can be a rather frustrating and exhausting process. I believe the future of car buying will always need to come with some form of a personalized touch.

No matter what's going on in the world, many of us are still in need of our cars to get to work, get groceries, and do essential activities. I'm seeing that many buyers are financially stable enough to take on a car purchase. Many lenders are working their butts off to offer discounts and incentives to keep customers interested. But. Just because they have some sweet deals doesn't mean you should take on the financial burden without doing all your homework first.

I wanted to offer some tips from someone working on the Sales & Financing side of the car industry.

1. Do research on the product you are most interested in. Look at the reviews on trusted websites to make sure you know what you're getting into.
2. If you need assistance with financing, try and build a relationship with a credit union near you. It will save you hundreds/thousands of dollars in the long run. (**Credit unions work more based on your relationship with them, compared to your current Credit Score**)
3. Know the market on the car and what the typical pricing range is on that year, make, and model you're interested in. (KBB is a great reference, But also understand with Social Distancing/Covid Times many cars are selling well above market value, based solely on supply and demand)
4. Utilize websites such as CarGurus, TrueCar, AutoTrader, and Craigslist to understand the true value of the car you're trying to purchase. (If you know the exact year, make, model and trim level, Search a 100 mile Radius of your Zip Code and see what the true market pricing is)
5. Secure your own financing before interacting with the dealership. (Most dealerships have trusted banks that they work with, While the process might seem quick/streamlined having the dealership handling your financing, it will most likely cost you more in the long run)
6. Ask for the Carfax Report and a copy of the dealerships inspection report.
7. Don't be afraid to reach out on the car you like and give the dealership an offer. (Remember that everyone is hurting and trying to survive right now, Any business is better than no business! You never know, they might accept what you offer.)
8. When you find your dream car, Don't fall in love to quickly. Walk around the car, inspect the paint and the body of the car for any defects/damage. Roll up and down all the windows, Check the door looks and that the doors work as intended. Shift the car from Park To Reverse, Then from Reverse to Drive, Make sure there are no clunks/delays in the transmission. Take a look underneath the car and look for active oil leaks. Just because you're buying a used car, its still going to be considered a new car to you!
9. If you're not a car person, Ask to take the car to an independent shop/ dealership to have them complete a Pre-Sale inspection for you! It will save you tons of money instead of inheriting unforeseen mechanic problems.