Cars can be expensive. To make sure that you get a quality vehicle that you can afford, it’s important to get your finances in order ahead of time so you’re not struggling to make ends meet.
This is why our Buick finance experts are always on-hand to give you exclusive financial advice, including these budgeting tips.
Think about the Total Price
The sticker price of a car may grab your attention, but there are other things you also have to consider, such as taxes, title, and registration fees. You also have to take operation fees into account, like insurance and gas. Plus, you can’t forget about the expenses related to service and maintenance.
Figure Out Your Down Payment
If you’ll be financing, you can lessen the amount of money you will need to borrow with a good down payment. While 20 percent of the purchase price is often cited as a good amount, you need to figure out what you’re comfortable paying per month. If you have a trade-in vehicle, you can put it towards your down payment as well.
Consider Your Monthly Payments
You also need to determine what you can afford monthly. A good rule of thumb is to go with a plan that will cost you somewhere between 10 and 20 percent of your monthly income. However, based on your circumstances and employment, you need to come up with a number that works for you.
If you need help devising a financing plan that fits your budget, get in touch with Lester Glenn Buick GMC near Lakewood to speak to one of our finance professionals. You can also start the process right now by filling out our online application. Call us today!

