There is nothing quite like the exhilaration of getting to the end of the car sales process and driving home in your new car. The fresh smell of a brand-new vehicle is unmatched, and driving home in a fancy product that’s all yours is a wonderful feeling. However, that is the end result of what can be a long car buying process. What should you know before buying a new car?

Shopping for a new car can be intimidating

While buying a new car can be very rewarding in the end, it can also be a very intimidating and scary process for a lot of people. The Edinburgh News reports that “After property, the car is one of the public’s biggest purchases, and it is vital that the buying process is made as simple and straightforward as possible.” Also, “not everyone has a deep understanding of the ins and outs of a car, or even any interest in them, so it is important they trust the person they are dealing with and that the experience is as transparent and stress-free as possible.” 

There is so much to know and understand when buying a new car, and many people do not feel well-prepared to go through it with a salesperson. In fact, most people would much rather buy a vehicle completely online or even send a friend in their stead. Most people don’t want to pay too much, but they also don’t know when haggling is appropriate or even how to do it effectively. 

You need to ask lots of questions before buying a new car 

Buying a new car doesn’t have to be like what most people imagine. You can show up at the new car dealership educated and prepared to negotiate for the best price for you. The key is to ask yourself a lot of questions before you set foot in the dealership.

Business Insider and Auto Cheatsheet offer the following questions to consider before starting your search:  

• Do you really need a new car? 
• What is your budget? How will the car purchase work with your budget?
• Should you buy or lease a new car? What are the pros and cons of both? 
• What kind of car do you want versus what you need?
• What features are most important to you?
• Do you have an existing relationship with the dealer? 
• Have you researched insurance premiums? How does this affect your budget?
• What will happen to your old car?
• Will all drivers in your house be comfortable with the new car?
• Do you plan to grow your family?
• What is your current credit score?
• Do you have a down payment ready?
• Will the car fit in your garage or driveway?
• Are you prepared for the cost of owning this new car? 

Be prepared for the entire car sales process 

After you have all your questions answered and are ready to move forward, be sure you understand the whole car buying process. 

Addition Financial gives the following steps to buying a new car.  

1. Choose Your Priorities. 
2. Research Your Options.
3. Set Your Budget. 
4. Get Pre-Approved For a Loan.
5. Find Cars That Meet Your Needs. 
6. Test Drive and Evaluate Cars.
7. Negotiate a Price.
8. Close the Deal. 

The key to having an excellent new car buying experience is to be as prepared as absolutely possible. Do your research until you can’t research anymore. Take your notes to the dealership with you. You will probably experience some emotions because this is a big experience. You can lessen the impact by being knowledgeable and prepared, and that will help you land that fantastic deal.