New car shopping can be a lot of
fun, especially if you’re a car enthusiast. But others can find the experience
stressful and tedious. 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).
Safety and performance come in a
distant third, tied at seven percent. But whether you’re turned on or turned
off by the dizzying array of car choices, trim options, “expert” reviews,
incentives and other deals, it definitely pays to approach car buying
strategically.
So if you’re in the market for a
new vehicle and you find yourself having trouble keeping a clear head, just
keep these strategies, courtesy of Hawkins Insurance 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? 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, although it seems that few people realize that what
they pay for insurance can add significantly to the vehicle’s total cost.
Wise car buyers know to shop
around for insurance and find out how costs compare. They also know to visit an
independent insurance agency – like Hawkins Insurance. We can check with several companies to find the best
combination of coverage and price.
To get a Progressive quote with Hawkins Insurance,
visit www.ryaninsuresme.com or call us at
832.554.7388.
Hawkins
Insurance & Financial Services Group
Office: 2600 South Shore Blvd., Ste 300, League City,
TX 77573
Mailing: PO Box 1140, Friendswood, TX 77549
Office:
(832)554-7388 | Mobile: (832)541-7388 | Fax: (800) 794-9150
Email: ryan@ryaninsuresme.com
Company Website:
www.ryaninsuresme.com
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