Tips For Buying Your First Car

If this is your first time buying a car, you want to ensure you have the right resources and information to make a smart choice. Here at Lee's Auto Sales of Fayetteville INC, we want to save you money while also making your first-time car purchase fun and leaving you feeling like you made the right choice. To help in this regard, we have compiled a list of tips for first-time car buyers. Prepare to make an informed car-buying decision by keeping the following tips in mind!

1. Determine Your Budget

Are you planning to pay cash or finance or lease your car? Either way, you will need to determine how much you are willing and able to spend on your first car. Also, keep in mind car ownership costs like insurance, fuel and maintenance when considering your budget. If you are shopping on a tight budget, consider shopping used cars for sale under $15K here at our dealership near Hope Mills, NC.

2. Decide How You Will Pay For The Vehicle

Unless you are paying cash for your first car, you will need to seek financing or lease it. If you are financing your car purchase, then determine what you can provide as a down payment when you apply for an auto loan. If you are seeking a car loan and you have less-than-perfect credit, the finance staff at Lee's Auto Sales of Fayetteville INC are here to assist you.

3. Compile A List Of Features You'd Like In A Car

If you are shopping for used cars in Fayetteville, NC, what type of driving will you be going around the area? Maybe you're looking for a fuel-efficient commuter car, a spacious family vehicle or even a performance car like a Dodge Charger or Challenger. Do you need all-wheel drive (AWD) for added traction or will front-wheel drive (FWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD) suit you just fine? Do you plan on transporting passengers and cargo frequently? These are all questions to ask yourself. Selecting a vehicle that is fairly practical, versatile and fuel-efficient is always a smart choice, especially if it is your first time buying a car.

4. Research Cars That Fit Your Needs And Budget

Now that you have figured out what your first car may look like and how you will pay for it, next comes the fun part: car shopping! Depending on the type of vehicle you're after and your budget, you may still have a lot of options, so start researching which car, truck or SUV models may suit your search. As one of the premier used car lots in Fayetteville, NC, Lee's Auto Sales of Fayetteville INC boasts quality pre-owned options from many makes, including Dodge, Ford, Kia, Ram and more. We invite you to explore our extensive used car inventory today.

5. Narrow Down Your Search To A Few Vehicles

Comparing many different vehicle models can be overwhelming; that is why it is important to narrow down your options to a few models as soon as you can. Then, compare the remaining vehicles to one another more rigorously to determine which may be the best fit for your needs, lifestyle and budget. Consider aspects like trim levels and features when you compare different car models or even vehicles of the same model to one another.

6. Compare Cars & Prices

Similar cars of the same model year and mileage may have significantly different prices based on a variety of factors, including the cost of ownership, perceived quality or dependability and the overall demand for the model as new or used. Of course, location and dealership can also lead to price differences -- even for near-identical cars -- so be sure to research and compare car prices from one dealership to another. Our used car dealership proudly serves the Fort Bragg area and beyond with highly competitive pricing on our used cars for sale!

7. Read Reviews Of Each Model You Are Considering

As part of your research before any test drives, consider what both automotive publications and current or past owners say about the vehicle models you are considering. A detailed review of each car model or a comparison article including multiple vehicles you are shopping can be immensely helpful in your search. Owner reviews can also tell you plenty about what drivers like and don't like about their cars, which can be invaluable in further narrowing down your search.

8. Test Drive Any Cars That Made Your Final List

A test drive can be even more informative in your first-time car buying decision than merely researching vehicles online. A car that looks good on paper or in an online comparison may not drive as well or be as comfortable as another car model you are considering. The test drive is the all-important factor in any car-buying decision, whether it is your first purchase or you have a lot of car-buying experience. A proper test drive not only includes the actual driving portion but also exploring the interior, cargo space, controls and overall condition of the vehicle.

Your Used Car Source Near Fort Bragg

Remember that the sales team here at Lee's Auto Sales of Fayetteville INC is ready to assist in your used car search. We've helped many first-time car buyers locate a quality pre-owned vehicle then secure favorable financing. Don't hesitate to rely on our dedicated staff as you undertake this exciting endeavor!