Jul 14, 2009

One Stop Motors Series 1 pt 3—How to Get Cheaper Car Insurance

Car prices are up, gas prices are up and insurance rates are up. So let’s try to put our heads together to see what we can do to save in the insurance category. First off, realize that there are hundreds of insurance companies to choose from. Why not use them against each other? This research will take a while, but it should pay off in the long run. In researching, make sure to consider all the perks the each company has to offer and weigh your needs. When you call one company, quote the rate of the previous company just in case they are in the position to drop their rates. See if they will discount those extra perks that would win you over. Makes sure you request a breakdown on charges to see how much each items is costing you. You may be able to drop unnecessary items to lower your overall costs. Make sure you check the renewal each year to make sure no additional items are added. If you can afford it, try to pay your insurance annually in one lump sum. Insurance companies add service charges for installment plans. Other ways to save on insurance costs:

o Drive safely. Accidents are what drive up insurance costs to us all. Being accident free increases your discount

o Obey the law: Moving violations, especially speeding tickets and running red lights/stop signs add dollars to your insurance premiums

o Research your automobile purchase before hand. Some automobiles are more to insure, i.e. off-road vehicles, high-theft vehicles, modified vehicles, etc.

o Gather names and information of any affiliations you belong to; for example, credit unions, AAA, alumni associates, business affiliations. Several insurance companies give additional discounts for these.

Remember that OneStopMotors.com can help you with you used car purchase. Look us up on line to shop from thousands of used car inventoried on line. We can also help you with financing, insurance, warranties and shipping. Let us do the work so you don’t have to.

Jul 9, 2009

One Stop Motors 1 pt 2—How to Haggle When Purchasing a Used Vehicle

Again, the economy is driving the prices of everything we buy. Right now, with the automotive industry, the inventory is high for auto dealerships and that makes sales difficult for those trying to sell there automotives privately, as well.

On the other hand, times may be just as tough for you as a purchaser. Why should you pay more than the market demand? So to make sure you don’t come down with buyer’s remorse for realizing that you could have saved on that new vehicle, here are a few pointers on how to haggle for a better price.

For starters, know your limit:
Have three prices in mind before meeting the seller
The price you’d like
A fair price
The most you’re willing to pay

Do your homework:
Research your vehicle in trade magazines
If you’re not confident, bring a friend
Remain non confrontational
Remain as congenial as possible
If the seller is too difficult, just walk away
Reassure them you are not trying to take advantage and you can pay right away
Don’t allow them to guilt you for haggling; you could end up paying more than necessary

Follow your instincts:
If something feels wrong, it probably is
If the seller does not seem honest, he probably isn’t
Don’t be afraid to make a counter offer if you are not satisfied with the initial offer
Push the Deal

Ignore “That’s the best price I can do.” Ask them again and let them know you are still searching other places. And ask the a third time and let them know you can right away. The third time usually seals the deal.

DO:
Be confident and well informed
Be persistent
Stay relaxed
Be friendly
Be straightforward and business like
Stay in control


DON’T:
Get emotional
Argue
Offer full asking price
Complain about the asking price
Lose your cool
Lose control with weak haggle statements

Remember that OneStopMotors.com can help you with you used car purchase. Look us up on line to shop from thousands of used car inventoried on line. We can also help you with financing, insurance, warranties and shipping. Let us do the work so you don’t have to.

Jul 2, 2009

One Stop Motors 1 pt 1—How to Buy A Car that is Right for You

Because the economy is sluggish, sales in the car industry have been plummeting. This leaves way for customers in need of new automobiles to bargain shop for their next purchase. In this blog series, I would like to cover key points to keep in mind on your car purchase adventure. I will cover how to buy a car, How to Haggle, How to Find Cheaper Auto Insurance, How to Qualify Your Purchase and How to Finance Your New Vehicle.

What Type of Vehicle

Let’s start with the first step which is deciding what car to purchase. You should really research this so you don’t end up with “buyer’s remorse.” You know, keep in mind what your main purpose for the vehicle is; like hauling kids or bulky equipment, something with better fuel economy, luxury or something fun and sporty to get your adrenaline pumping.

Budget

Next, figure out what you can afford to pay and look for an auto that fits your needs as well as your budget. Along with the cost of the vehicle, you should figure in the cost of fuel as far as does it require regular or premium and how much fuel this particular vehicle burn. How much driving will you be doing and will it be mostly city or highway. You may also want to keep in mind the insurance rate for that vehicle. Call ahead for quotes on different makes and models.

Safety, Fit and Comfort

It’s important to keep the fit and comfort in mind as well. Make sure you are driving something you feel safe in and can see properly. Unusually large blind spots are a major thing to look for. You don’t want to strain to see over the wheel or feel cramped and tight as if you practicing yoga to get in or out of the car. Make sure once you have narrowed down to a few, to actually go out and test drive to be sure of the comfort and fit—keep in mind those long drives, you want to make sure your seats are comfy.

Space

And while you are driving around on those long drives, you want to make sure you have space for your luggage, if necessary…or no space if that’s your thing.

Appearance

Next is the appearance and performance of your vehicle. Let’s face it, many people identify with their vehicle. Try to find something to fit your taste. You will be paying for it so whether is cute and perky, loud and muscular, large and luxurious, or racy and wild, you want to make sure it is something you can tolerate driving on a regular basis.

Features

The final choice comes to the features. This can run up the tab on your new vehicle quite quickly, so make sure you get a least what you need and if you can afford a few bells and whistles, why not? Let’s face it; this is probably one of the largest investments you will make outside of buying property. Get what you want and enjoy it!

Remember that OneStopMotors.com can help you with you used car purchase. Look us up on line to shop from thousands of used car inventoried on line. We can also help you with financing, insurance, warranties and shipping. Let us do the work so you don’t have to.