If you are looking to land a great deal on a used car, then make your plans accordingly. To that end we have outlined three reasons to purchase a used car this weekend. We’ve also identified three general steps to take as you shop and complete your deal.
Reason No. 1 — New Car Deals Beget Used Car Finds
Whenever there is a three-day holiday weekend, car dealers plan special deals to lure shoppers. Further, shoppers of new cars are also able to take advantage of monthly manufacturer specials launched just days earlier for purchasing a new car. Conveniently, Columbus Day falls closer to the beginning of the month than certain other major holidays such as Memorial Day and Thanksgiving. …show more content…
And because most shoppers trade in when they buy new, used car inventories are also bloated. As a used car shopper this means you’ll have a better selection of cars to choose from with fresh incentives available.
Reason No. 2 — Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Vehicle Specials
Holiday or not, the latest certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle deals are active. CPOs are a special breed of used car, typically no older than five years and offering special financing incentives by manufacturers.
Most manufacturers provide low-rate financing and in some cases sweeten the deal with cash back or a free monthly payment. Once in a while you may find an offer providing complimentary maintenance for up to one year. Please keep in mind that CPO incentives vary not just by brand, but sometimes by model line.
Reason No. 3 — Year End Incentives Are In Effect
October begins the fourth quarter and for some manufacturers the year end incentives are already in place. Because October is also the traditional month to introduce the new model year, dealers are eager to clear their lots to make way for the new models. Year- and model-end specials as well as clearance initiatives have a cascading effect that brings in more new car shoppers, increases used car inventories, and puts pressure on sales staff to strike deals. Take advantage of Columbus Day to secure your best deal. Before You Buy Now that you have three good reasons to shop for a used car on Columbus Day weekend, there are three steps you can take to ensure that you find the right vehicle with a correspondingly sweet deal to go with it. Step No. 1 — Establish Your Goals What kind of vehicle do you want? Do you have a make and model in mind? What features are important to you (i.e., GPS navigation, heated seats, or crash avoidance systems)? How much do you plan to spend? Will you be paying cash or financing your purchase? Is there a trade in involved? Once you answer these questions, you’ll have your goal in mind and a basis for moving on to the next step. Step No. 2 — Conduct Your Research You are now ready to explore your financing options, including checking with your bank or