My brother gave me my first car when he decided to live permanently in Australia five years ago. That Toyota was the first love of his life. But then opportunity knocks and he can’t bring it to Perth which is kinda heartbreaking. So he gave it to me. I just gave birth that year, i was overwelmed to have it needless to say because its still brand new considering he only used it for a year.
For years, it has served me well. Going to work because I live outside the city. But then the COVID pandemic happened. We were in a lockdown for more than a year and I was in hardship because of that, emotional and financial. So I asked my brother if I could sell it and he agreed. Moreover, I was not able to maintain the car. Never used it for more than a year. It was just outside where elements kind of played havoc with it, plus, I dont really know about car maintenance. So bye, bye Toyota.
But things get to start anew. We were told to come back working in the office. And then my child start schooling face to face. Being a single mother and living outside the city, I find out how hard it was if you don’t have a car. I decided to find myself a new car and soon. So, i did my research and list up what I need to look when buying a car.
Will it fit my budget?
When you’re car shopping, it’s important to consider your budget. You don’t want to buy a car that’s too expensive for you to afford, remember you have other bills to psy. There are a few things you can do to make sure you stay within your budget. First, figure out how much you can afford to spend on a vehicle. Then, research the cars you’re interested in to get an idea of their prices. After that you can calculate your budget, there are car payment calculation app that can foresee the budget you have in mind. Once you have a number in mind, stick to it.
What’s Your finances?
After having a price in mind, ask if your finances can handle it. Remember, you already have a budget in mind. If your finances is in place first, all you need to think is how to pay for it. Don’t forget, there are several specific methods to pay for a vehicle. Are you going to spread the cost of a mortgage of the vehicle or you want to put it under a vehicle financing plan. Plus, your finances is going to want to cover the gasoline, maintenance among others. That is why this is the next consideration to look up to after calculating everything.
Go straight to https://www.carpaymentcalculator.net and start working on your figures once you know ypur options. And while checking, why not visit their arcade and have a bit of fun while trying to think if your budget can make it through. The Batman Gotham Speed is one of its more than 20 games that should get you warmed up in getting behind the wheel.
Is it Child-friendly?
When shopping for a car, you should focus on the details that is important to you and your family. If you’re a single parent, think of the comfort of your child and the safety of the vehicle.
There are cars that is family-friendly. If you’re tech savvy, there are cars that is tech-loaded. Choose a car that has the most versatile, and can be customized for a child.
Maintenance
One of the reason why I sold my old car is that I’m a lost for its maintenance. So this time, I’m looking for a car that is cheapest to maintain or if something happened, the easiest to repair. Next is, will I want a manual or the electrified version? Although I’m a little bit partial to have an electrified version again but this time I’m torn between choosing a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) or a hybrid, or maybe go for the full electric. According to a Kia report electric cars are easier to maintain but bear in mind that each of these choices offers different mileage ranges, the amount of charging times and benefits. Electric cars are roomy and because of its battery design it is powerful.
So, which car has the least maintenance cost?
Warranties
More importantly, make sure you understand the warranty coverage on any car you’re considering. This can save you money down the road if something goes wrong with your purchase.
Shop around
Slow down your impulse. Don’t just buy the first car you see. Take your time and shop around to find the best deal on the right car for you.
So, are you now ready to find your next ride?
