Can’t Decide Which Car is best for you? Time to Narrow Down Your Options

You’re in the market for a new car, but you have no idea what you’re looking for. Outside of finding something convenient that gets you from point A to point B, you haven’t given much thought to the make, model, or type of vehicle you want to get. Unfortunately, the internet can only be useful if you have some key factors you’re looking for. With all the styles of vehicles out there, how do you narrow down your search to find the right one for you?

Vehicle Purpose

What is your main purpose for this vehicle? Are you looking for a car to joyride in on the weekends? Do you need the car to transport your family? Are you on the market for something to get you back and forth to work? The purpose of the vehicle can help you narrow down your choices. A weekend fun car might mean you’re in the market for a sports car or something flashy and luxurious. A family car might mean you need to look for larger vehicles with tons of storage and safety features. A car for commuting to work can be any vehicle type but would need to be durable enough to withstand your commute.

Driving Preferences

Unless this is your first vehicle, you have a good idea of what types of cars you like to drive. You have to be comfortable behind the wheel, so if you’ve only driven economy sized cars, jumping to an SUV or pickup truck might not be the best option.

Car Features

What features do you want or need in a car? Are you interested in safety features like rear-driving cameras and parking assistance? Would you prefer a car that comes with charger ports and technology that links to your mobile devices? Create a list of features as this can be used to narrow down your search.

Budget

How much can you afford to pay for a car? Keep in mind, you’ll need to have more than a down payment. You’ll also need to pay sales tax, motor vehicle fees, and insurance. Not to mention you’ll be responsible for maintenance, repairs, gas, and ongoing insurance for the vehicle as long as you own it. If you plan on taking out a loan, you need to know how much you can afford to pay back each month including the additional fees not covered by the loan.

Your Search

You now know the purpose of the new car, you have given thought to your driving preferences, you’ve created a list of features, and you’ve gone over your budget. Hold onto this information as it will be imperative in helping you narrow down your search. Now, you can begin your search.

Dealerships

The internet can provide information overload sometimes so give yourself a break and start looking at cars in person. Look for nearby dealerships like Cadillac of Lake Lanier serving the Atlanta area. Such dealerships have an online inventory you can browse and will welcome the opportunity to show you around in person. You can provide them with your budget and list of priorities and driving preferences and a car salesman can walk you around the lot showing you vehicles that best meet those needs within the budget you can afford. Going in person also allows you to test drive the vehicle so you can ensure you’re getting something you really want.

Private Sellers

Another option for finding a car you may like is by inquiring with private buyers in your area. You would check sites like Craigslist to see what’s being advertised for sale in your neighborhood. Contact the seller and set up a date to meet. When visiting private sellers, however, keep in mind they aren’t under the same microscope as dealerships and can sell you something that is really a piece of junk. So, when going for test drives, see if a mechanic can come along with you to inspect the vehicle for significant damage. You’ll also have to pay for your own car history reports to make sure the vehicle has not been totaled.

There are millions of cars out there for you to choose from. If you have no idea what you’re looking for, you could find yourself becoming overwhelmed with searching on the internet. To narrow down your search, try using relevant factors like the vehicle purpose, features, driving preferences, and price range. Then, head to a local dealership or search for online sellers to see the car in person and take it for a test drive. If it’s priced right and feels right, then chances are you’ve found your car.

Priscilla James is the Ceo of Chi Chi Gallery Design