While it may seem surprising purchasing a vehicle during the holiday season, it has become a common occurrence. This is because many consumers have seen the benefits of buying a car during the festive season. Due to the slow demand, you can find a great discount offer and save more money on your purchase than any other time of the year.
This is because many dealerships are eager to have a festive season sale to make room for newer vehicles for the new year. If you have been waiting to get an affordable car for sale near you, then the Christmas season may be the only time you can find a sweet deal.
If you are planning to go holiday car shopping, then read our tips below to ensure you are a savvy buyer.
Do your research
Whenever you plan to purchase a new vehicle, you need to do your research. This is even more so when you’re looking for a car to buy during the holiday season, as you will get a lot of options. Sales agents will also try harder to push for sales, and you need to be wary. Know exactly what type of vehicle you’re interested in, its car features and how much you are willing to pay.
Having adequate information around the car and knowing your limits will ensure you get the deal you need, and not get cornered into a sale. A vehicle is a lifelong commitment, and you need to choose wisely and keep in mind that dealerships are trying to get rid of stock by all means necessary. So, be informed and assertive at all times.
Go to an auction house
While this may come as a surprise, or if you’ve been wary when it comes to buying a car on auction, this is where you can get a great deal. What makes going to a car auction to buy your vehicle a good idea this time of the year is that most auction houses close mid-December. This means that most of the vehicles will be going at an affordable price. Many car dealerships go to upcoming car auctions around this time to stock up on vehicles at an affordable price. By going to a car auction, you get to save money on the dealer’s margin.
A dealers margin is the difference between the amount the dealership pays for the car, and in this case, the price it’s being sold for at the auction. Buying a vehicle at an auction has its benefits, and in most cases, it’s a repossessed cars auction which means that the vehicles can still be in good condition. It’s only being sold at an auction because the owner couldn’t keep up with the monthly instalments to the lender.
Act quickly
Once you know exactly what you want, you need to have your ducks in a row. During the festive season, you will find many people looking for vehicles to buy. Either for themselves or their children who are turning 21 or starting university. You must act quickly so that you do not miss out on a deal.
If you plan on going the auction house route, you need to act fast. If you see a vehicle that you are interested in, make sure you put down your offer. The last thing you need is to miss out on a deal because you hesitated. Unlike a car dealership, people are going to an auction to win a good car deal not to weigh their options first, so you need to be ready. However, do not purchase a vehicle simply because it’s a “good deal” – make sure it meets your price range and is the type of vehicle you want for yourself.
Shop on New Year’s Eve
When it comes to car shopping over the holidays, you need to find the perfect time, and the ideal time for holiday car shoppers is on New Year’s Eve. The main reason why you should look for a car dealership on the 29th of December is that the majority of car dealerships will be closed on the 30th and 31st of December. This leads to eager sale agents who won’t mind offering you a deal that is worth your while. So, make sure you go car shopping this day and be ready to sign a deal.
Consider purchasing a vehicle that needs repairs
One thing many buyers are sceptical about is purchasing a vehicle that needs repairs or what is also known as a “fixer-upper”. A fixer-upper can be sold at a competitive price because panel beaters are closed during the festive season. This leaves car dealerships eager to find a buyer who is willing to purchase a vehicle that needs repairs.
If you know your way around vehicles and it’s parts, or you have a mechanic on speed dial, then this may be a way for you to save when buying a car. Or if you don’t have either of those options, you can purchase the vehicle and take it for repairs in the new year. This alternative, of course, will only work if you have a vehicle at the moment, or you don’t mind waiting. If you’re strapped for cash, then this is a great money-saving alternative.
Avoid shopping for inexpensive cars
This may come as a shock, but do not purchase an entry-level car during the festive season. The main reason is that inexpensive cars are popular during this time. This is because many parents are looking to purchase their children vehicles and they’re more likely to buy an entry-level car. Because of this reason, those vehicles will be selling for more because dealerships are aware of the demand in the market.
If you are trying to save money, then it’s best to avoid these vehicles as you won’t be saving much, unless you plan on purchasing after the festive season. It is more advisable to purchase a slightly more expensive car as the demand in the market will be low. And, dealerships want to sell their vehicles and don’t need high-end vehicles in their lot as the majority of their potential clients will be looking for affordable alternatives.
Don’t be afraid to ask around
Word of mouth is still an effective way of marketing, so don’t be afraid to ask around and find out where you can find a great deal. You never know what is out there unless you ask. And if you want to save, then you need to ask so that you can weigh your options and decide what’s best for you. Find out from friends and family, check social media pages and see what is out there on the market; you never know what you can find.
Final thoughts
It’s always great to find an affordable deal when purchasing something. With the cost of living soaring, it’s a plus to find that you can save on a purchase, especially one as big as a car. As much as they are valuable and make your life easier, the cost can be too much. This is why finding ways to cut back on costs can be so helpful. So make sure you visit auction houses, do your research and ask around to find a deal that works for you.
This post is sponsored by WesBank
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