Car shopping isn’t always the most enjoyable experience. It can be stressful, disappointing and even confusing. For example, how do you know when you’re getting a great deal on a car? Unlike brand new vehicles that cost a premium, used vehicles include a discount. How much of a discount they get depends on various factors such as their age, model and condition.
Most people who purchase used cars are doing so to save money. If we’re being honest, most of us would love to drive off the lot with a brand new car. So it only makes sense that when shopping for a new or repo car, you want to make sure you’re getting the best deal possible. Below are the elements that go into a great used car deal.
Good Purchase Price
It’s fairly easy to tell if the car is marked right by looking up its value in Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds’ True Market Value. Keep in mind that you’ll get an average price for the vehicle based on what people in your area have paid. It will not be exact. Some people will have paid more, and others less. But at least you’ll have an idea of what the car is worth.
Possible Incentives
It’s possible that a used vehicle might include some incentives, such as low-interest financing, to make it look more attractive. If the car you’re interested in is eligible for incentives, make sure they are applied correctly. Many people prefer the ease of shopping for a repo car because they can place a bid they feel is fair – there are no incentives, rebates or other offers to mess with.
Low-Interest Financing
Ideally, you’ll want to shop around for the best auto loan rates. Dealerships do offer financing, but the interest rates are often higher, which means you’ll pay more over the life of your loan. Shop ahead and use this to negotiate at the dealership if need be. If you plan to buy a repo car, you can obtain financing from the seller, as most are credit unions and banks who are open to negotiating.
Minimal Fees and Taxes
You should always know what you’re paying for your vehicle – including taxes and fees. Often, people ignore these hidden fees because everything is lumped into one payment. But it pays to ask questions and be informed. In a good car deal, you should only have to pay three fees: state and local sales tax, motor vehicle registration fees and a reasonable documentation fee. In some states, state law controls the fees. What you want to watch out for is dealers creating their own fees.
No Additional Add-Ons
As mentioned above, people appreciate the simplicity of buying a repo car because they don’t have to worry about overpriced add-ons. Everything is straightforward. Find a car you like, place a bid, and if your offer is accepted, move forward with an inspection and paperwork. If you purchased a used car from a dealer, watch out for unnecessary add-ons like paint protection packages and extended warranties.
Find the Whole Package at RepoFinder.com
RepoFinder.com has a list of banks, lenders and credit unions in every state that are selling repo inventory, including cars, trucks, SUVs, recreation equipment and more. They are highly motivated sellers that are looking to clear out their inventory and recoup their losses. You can also negotiate good deals with them, sometimes with zero-interest financing. Browse our vehicles today and see if you find something you like!