Buying a car is a big investment, and you might not have experience getting through the process. For those of us who could use a hand with the car shopping and buying process, these 5 tips for buying a car in 2017 might be a good place to start.

Shopping New or Used Car Tips for First-Time Buyers

Narrow Your Choices:

Consider the type of car you want, along with the size and price you need. Take a look through the research on our site to find direct comparisons and info about several models available. Once you find a size and budget figured you, narrow your options a bit to give yourself a direction to go when looking for the right vehicles to test drive.

Assess Your Ownership Costs:

Different cars have different costs for ownership, and this includes things like insurance, repairs and maintenance. Websites like Kelley Blue Book can give you a rough estimate of what your ownership costs will look like, and give your insurance company a call to see what your payments would look like.

Check Out Your Financing Options:

If you prefer to finance through the bank or credit union, rather than the dealer itself, go in to receive information and get a financing plan approved before you head over to the dealership. Not only will you feel more confident, but you’ll have an idea of what your budget looks like before you fall in love with something too expensive!

Take a Thorough Test Drive:

When you get behind the wheel of your potential vehicle, be sure to really test out the driving experience. That means hitting highway speeds, testing the brakes and really getting a feel for how the vehicle handles turns. If it’s a used car, be sure to test interior features and technology.

Focus on Negotiating Skills:

Before you head over to the dealership, take a few minutes to consider how you want to negotiate the price. A lot of times, a few of the classic negotiating tactics can help you to get a better price on a car you want. Don’t be afraid to negotiate, as a little confidence goes a long way!