7 Shopping Strategies For New Car Buyers

New car shopping can be a lot of fun, especially if you’re a car enthusiast. But others can find the experience stressful and tiring. Either way, there’s a lot to think about. According to a survey of car shoppers, overall purchase price is the most important factor when shopping for a new car (46 percent), followed by make and model (31 percent).
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Safety and performance come in a distant third, tied at seven percent. But whether you’re turned on or turned off by the dizzying types of car choices, trim options, “expert” reviews, incentives and other deals, it definitely pays to approach new car buying strategically.

So if you’re in the market for a new car and you find yourself having trouble keeping a clear head, just keep these 7 strategies,  in mind:

1. Decide how much money you can spend and what type of vehicle best suits your needs. Just looking for the basic transport capability of a small or medium sedan? Or do you need the hauling capacity of a van or SUV? Something practical? Maybe something sporty? Something in between?
2. Research crash tests and accident data available from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
3. Shop around for financing. If you can, apply for and get approval for a loan from a bank, credit union or other financier before you even visit the dealership. Being a “cash buyer” gives you an advantage when you do finally meet with the dealership’s financing person.
4. Test drive the car. Try to drive in conditions that will be similar to those under which you’ll drive every day.
5. Check pricing for your desired make and model at two or three dealerships and use that information to help you negotiate the best deal.
6. Get a firm quote, in writing. This should include not only the cost of the car, but any fees and the sales tax.
7. Inspect your new car carefully before driving off the lot. Make sure all the options you’ve ordered are included and that the body and paint are free of scratches or dents.

Finally, it’s important to consider the cost of auto insurance.   Generally, there is not a big difference with insurance premium when comparing similar vehicle types.  For example, comparing a modest van with another modest van,  or a luxury sedan with another luxury sedan.  However, there could be a big difference between an economy sedan and a luxury SUV.   Additionally, some carriers offer New Car discounts.   Still other carriers will rate favorably cars with a lot of safety features, like backup cameras and mirror sensors.
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Wise car buyers know to shop around for insurance and find out how costs compare. They also know to contact an independent insurance agency – like Berkshire Insurance Services.  We can check with several companies to find the best combination of coverage and price to best fit the make and model of the car you wish to purchase.
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To get a quote with Berkshire Insurance Services, LLC, click to quote or call us at (610) 376-7300.