Now with the internet, you can do most of it online without ever having to go to a dealership or talk to a salesman. In fact, you could avoid seeing anyone and just go through all the processes online. Sounds pretty cool but for me I like to see the car, touch it, feel it and drive it. I haven't found anyone yet that will leave the keys in the car for me to test drive when they're closed, so somewhere along the line I have to talk to a real live person. That in itself can be scary.
First, do your homework. You probably have some idea about what you want. Or not. Maybe a family car, SUV, truck, minivan or whatever fits your lifestyle at the time and budget. Budget (what you can really afford) is a big consideration and should always be at the top of your list. Think before you shop.
I'm going to assume most everyone has a PC or has access to one. If not, I apologize and you can always call me, at 1-806-796-7777 ext. 262 for the non-pc version of this blog. That said, a good place to start if you're shopping for a new car is at the manufacturers website. For example, this could be Honda.com or GMC.com. It's a good place to start because you can review all available models, colors, trim levels, as well as pricing. The more homework you do, the closer you get to choosing the right car or truck.
This is where the fun begins! Now that you're familiar with what's available and have narrowed down what you may want to buy, shopping the dealership is a good idea. For example frankbrownhonda.com or frankbrowngmc.com gives you instant access to current inventories (what they have available), any financing (how you can finance your car) and any sales (what they're offering) on the vehicles they carry and who knows, that one special car or truck you're interested in may be there waiting for you!
Here's the easy part. Once you're at the dealer's website, you can request a quote (pricing on a vehicle) and or any information that is important to you. There will be a place for you to click on, for example Contact US or Email. It will go straight to the Internet Manager and if he or she is like me, it will go to both their pc and Blackberry. This way you get a response back immediately rather than 6 weeks later! Remember, if it's 2:30am in the morning or a Sunday afternoon, you'll probably get an auto-responder (a response that automatically comes back to you during non-business hours).
Once you've sent a request the dealership there will be an attempt to contact you. An Internet Specialist will email or call or both. This is a good thing. He or she is interested in helping you and will want to answer any additional questions you may have as well as wanting to schedule an appointment at your convenience. Remember the see it, touch it, feel it and drive it comment I made? This is your chance to make your own decision about the vehicle you've chosen. Is it the right one, the right color, the right size, the right price that fits your budget? You may find that you'll change your mind and choose an entirely different vehicle or color. Buying a new car is so much fun! Because you're in control!
Coming soon! The rest of the story: Going to the right dealership!
Labels: How To Buy A Car Using The Internet
