Wheelin' and Dealin':
Finding the Best Price on Your New Car
Shopping for a new car is exciting. You get to pick the style, the color, and the features. Not to mention, it's got that "new car" smell. But finding that dream car isn't always easy. Dealers claiming to offer "the best price in town" can often stick you with hidden costs. So, how can you make sure you're getting the most for your money? Esurance has some tips on finding the right car at the right price.
Do your homework.
The Internet has made shopping easier for everyone, especially thrifty shoppers looking for a great deal. Before settling on a vehicle, decide your price range and choose the features you can't live without. Then, find a few different cars that fit your criteria and compare. Look at consumer reports, read customer reviews, and ask around. Last, but not least, test drive!
Think long-term.
Along with price, you should also consider the car's fuel-efficiency, maintenance costs, and insurance rates. For example, hybrids may cost a little more up front, but think of all the money you'll save at the gas pump. And remember, a flashy sports car is guaranteed to cost more to insure than a sensible sedan.
You should also consider the resale value of your future vehicle. The average car depreciates about 50% in the first 3 years, but some cars retain their value far better than others (which comes in handy when it's time to make a trade). Even if you plan on leasing your car, the resale value plays an important role: the higher the resale value, the lower the lease payments.
Shop around.
Once you've settled on the car, be sure to visit several dealers before you sign anything. When you go into the dealer, you should have a firm idea of the features you want and the price you're willing to pay. Sites like Kelley Blue Book can tell you how much you should expect to pay for your new or used vehicle. The more informed you appear, the better you'll be able to negotiate.
If you plan on financing your car, it also pays to shop around. Check with banks and credit unions, as well as your dealer, to ensure you find the best rate. Keep in mind that you may find special offers through your dealer during incentive periods. Check out Auto Financing & Auto Insurance for more tips on finding the best deal.
Get the right car insurance.
No matter what kind of car you decide on, you can find a great rate on your car insurance at Esurance! It takes only minutes to get a quote. You can even compare quotes from other companies right on our site. And, as an Esurance policyholder, you'll benefit from 24/7 customer service and claims handling, as well as easy online policy management.
Finding the right car takes time, but finding the right car insurance is easy with Esurance. After all, your money should be spent on your car, not your car insurance!
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