Who doesn’t like buying a new car? After all, it’s exciting and overwhelming at the same time. But a brand-new car can burn a hole in your pockets. Buying one is not easy because the cost of owning a new vehicle is touching the roof.
One upfront solution is to get pre-owned cars. Many dealers list used cars for sale Jacksonville at fair prices. But like the new car prices, used vehicle costs are surging too. The average cost for used cars showed an incredible growth rate of 40% last year.
Does it mean you can’t afford a used car? Take a sigh of relief as there are some tips you can follow to lower the prices. Let’s dive in!
Look for the Base Models
The top way to save money is to look for the base model. The base model is the earliest model of a car that doesn’t have the most updated features, but they cost drastically low. You may also want to check vehicles that are a few years old or discontinued.
Car-making companies keep upgrading their car models by adding the latest features, which adds to their high costs. But as long as a car serves its purpose, they aren’t a bad investment.
Focus on Durability More than Looks
Like anywhere else, cars hold a status symbol in Florida. But before that car helps you travel from one place to another. It doesn’t mean you should buy any car available. If you’re looking to save more bucks, try not to focus on just the looks of the most popular brands or models.
A slightly less stylish or smaller car may still work fine for you. So, you may want to focus more on durability and longevity than the flashy appearance.
Skip the Favorites List
Popular models have a hefty price tag attached to them. To save money and get more worth, skip your favorite car models list. It may not have the latest interior and exterior style or modern technology.
But with proper research, you can still get your hands on the best deals on used cars for sale Jacksonville.
Follow the 60-day Rule
Some dealers follow a 60-day stocking policy. The number of days indicates the duration sellers keep used cars on the forecourt. When a pre-owned vehicle doesn’t sell within a couple of months, it often gets passed to a car auction.
These auctions are less profitable for the car seller. You can keep a keen eye on a car you want. Closer to the 60-day limit, you may fetch a better deal from the dealer. But it’s a chance play and needs some waiting.
Get Professional Opinion
It never hurts to get a second opinion if you have found a car that looks perfect for your needs. You may want to take the help of a mechanic who finds faults in vehicles in one test drive. For safety, avoid purchasing a non-certified pre-owned car without a pre-purchase inspection in Jacksonville.
The Bottom Line
Everyone wants to save a few more bucks and avoid spending needlessly. These tips will help you get a car on a budget if you’re considering getting a used car.
Finding used cars for sale in Jacksonville isn’t tricky. But a little mindful approach will get you more value. Think of finding vehicles with simple features that help you cut costs on maintenance and drive safely on the road.