After four years of driving a ten year old Citroen C2, I decided to get myself a brand new car.
I had so much fun over the last few weeks testing cars and finally decided on a cute higher end Seat Mii. I pick it up on Saturday and can't wait.
That's my only bit of bragging, honest. What I wanted to do today was share the tips I've collected if anyone does want to treat themselves to a new car this summer.
So, what have I learned?
Know your budget and stick to it!
Some companies will try and get you to purchase little extras (metalic paint is a biggie I came across) that will take you above your budget.
Only you know how much you want to spend. Don't let any sales person push you into spending more than you want.
Annoy your friends!
Everyone drives different cars. Ask their advice about what they drive. It may help you narrow down your list of cars a tiny bit. I had a list of 20 cars! I knocked 10 out just by bugging my friends for their opinions.
Research your Top Picks
Test drive everything!
Don't get sucked in by the first garage you walk into...
... check similar models.
I was originally looking at the VW Up. My Mam had seen an advert where you paid a £2000 deposit and £109 a month. I did go and enquire and this offer never came up. Maybe my Mam heard the advert wrong, I don't know. But I did get drawn in by a second hand VW Up where they wanted me to pay a much higher deposit and it was over my budget. I did consider taking it.
I went home and mentioned to my Dad who convinced me that the car was expensive and we went to others. The Mii is almost identical to the Up but a lot cheaper!
I don't have anything against VW, and I did love the car, I just listened to my Dad and shopped about to find out what other offers were available.
I know my local garage offers, but every garage is different across the country. I would suggest looking into your local car garages to see what is available.
Don't go alone
I went to one garage in particular and I must have looked like a fresh lamb for slaughter. I did test drive the car whilst finance was being worked out, and the deal was too expensive so I said I would need to have a think and get back to them because my budget wouldn't be able to afford this.
The sales lady (who was nice) disappeared and returned with the finance person who got really pushy and made me feel a bit uncomfortable. I have no idea how I walked out of that without signing for a car! y the way, don't be afraid to walk away if they do get pushy. It's your money and your decision, not theirs.
I did take my Dad for support in some garages. he was there to ask the finance questions when I agreed to the Seat Mii. It is something I would suggest if you are buying a car for the first time. If not your dad, someone you know who's bought a lot of cars in the past and can help you ask the right questions or pull you out of a pushy situation.
Finally, always be honest
They have their targets at the end of the day, so just give them as much as you can to help them find the right car for you. Even if you're just browsing, let them know.
I told every sales person that I would not be making a decision until the 20th (yes, I bought the Seat before this) so that once they had pitched their finance option they would not feel like I'd wasted their time. I was just shopping around looking for the best offer for the best car.
Now I've just realised how many people I'll be speaking to on Saturday, saying I've went for a different car. Oh shit!
I'f you can share any other tips with other readers please leave them in the comments below.
Bye for now!
xxx