#Collaborative post
When it comes to budgeting for a new car, there is quite a lot that you need to consider when it comes to working out the costs. You may think that it is initially all about the purchase price, but alongside that, you need to consider the other factors to ensure that your budget can be stretched as far as it can be. So what should you be thinking about? Here are some of the things to consider.
Work out your actual budget
One of the first things anyone who is in a position of needing to purchase a car should do is work out how much you can spend. This may not be easy, so there are two ways of looking at it. You either need to be focusing on your monthly outlay, as in considering a finance option like a loan, or look at your savings. It might be that you want to solely pay for the car outright, or use some of your cash and finance the rest. This is important to distinguish, so you are looking at the right vehicles for the amount you want to spend. If you are looking to calculate how much you can spend, why not check out this online calculator for more help.
You also need to consider the long term cost implications of the car such as the road tax, MOT and service costs. As well as things such as the costs of new wiper blades, tyres and even a waterproof car cover. These things may all seem minor but they soon start to add up over time.
Figure out your finance options
If you don’t have a lump sum sitting in the bank burning a hole in your pocket, then your other option would be to consider finance. However, there are a number of possibilities so you need to decipher what sort of package would work for you. You can long-term hire a vehicle, pay off a loan each month, or simply enter into an agreement where you would need to make a decision on your car, for example, part-exchange it after a certain term has been reached. Some of these options will require you to have a good credit history. If you are unsure about your history or worry that it may not be as good as it could be it might be worth checking online first.
Do plenty of research
It’s important to research as much as you can. Buy motoring magazines, read blogs and vehicle reviews and look around at different garages and dealerships. Test drive different models and be sure in your decision when you have chosen the right make and model for you. After all, it’s a big purchase and commitment to make. Even taking notice while you are out and about could highlight a type of car you may never have considered before.
Get your priorities in order
A quick tip is to ensure you have your priorities in check. What is important to you when it comes to your next vehicle? Does it need to be reliable? Should it have a warranty? Do you need a car that is economical? What about the space you have in the boot or in the back? Having your priorities in order will help you finalise the right car for you.
Compare the vehicles available to you
Finally, make sure you compare the top vehicles that will suit your needs. Test drive them on the same day, view them while other models are fresh in your mind. This is one of the easiest ways to determine what you will feel most comfortable in, and which car will be the right purchase for you.
Let’s hope these tips help you secure your next vehicle within our budget.