1. Don't go alone, if possible
This was my biggest mistake. As a 20-year-old girl, I figured the salespersons would attempt to fool me and get me to sign a contract with terms I did not understand nor agree with. However, it is not just young girls that should go alone. Buying a car can be very exciting, and you can be blinded by little things because you might be set on what you want. Having an extra pair of eyes and ears can catch a lot!
2. Do your research beforehand
Have a good idea of what you want and make sure you know all you need to know about it.
3. Set boundaries for yourself and stick to them
If you know you don't want to spend over a certain amount, make sure you stick to that because the salespersons can be very persuading, so do not fall for it!
4. Don't fall for crazy interest rates
Interest rates really should not be higher than 10%. The first used car place I went to tried to give me a 23% interest rate, which is insane! The monthly interest would be about the same as the car payment itself. Even with bad credit, you can get a good rate, regardless of what they may say.
5. If you can, get a loan from the bank
Banks will likely give you the best interest rate, so if you know specifically what you want and how much of a loan you want to take out, try to get approved for a loan through your bank first.
6. Don't be afraid to walk away
Not all dealerships are going to be able to give you what you want, and it is highly unlikely that you will find exactly what you want the first place you look. You need to be able to be strong and walk away when things sound sketchy or if it isn't what you want.
7. Go certified if you can
If you are buying a used car, try to go to the dealership of the car you want and get a certified vehicle. This means the car is still under warranty, which is extremely beneficial to you as the buyer.
8. Make sure you're doing what you can to have the best credit
If you know you'll be buying a new car soon, make sure to be paying your credit card bill on time! While you should be doing this regardless, you want to make sure you have the best credit when taking out a loan to ensure you get the lowest interest rate.
9. Make sure you know what you'll be paying for insurance
Before you get too attached to a vehicle, you want to make sure you can afford the payment and insurance!
10. Be confident and don't be afraid to ask questions
Buying a car is a big deal and a lot of money, you want to make sure everything is right, so don't hesitate to ask any questions you may have.
