How Much Car Can You Afford?
In order to find out how much you can afford, lenders will want to know your gross monthly income and your existing monthly debts. To calculate your maximum monthly debt, simply add up your monthly expenses including:
- Mortgage or rent payments
- Loan payments
- Credit card payments
- Childcare costs
- Alimony or child support payments
- Any other regular expenses
Find the Right Car
There are a lot of cars on the market today, which can make it difficult to narrow down your choices. For example, if you have a family or travel frequently with friends, you’re going to want a bigger car vs looking for a car just to commute back and forth to work. Another thing to consider is how much you’re willing to spend on gas each month.
Before you start shopping for a car, sit down and think about what you need:
- How many people will regularly ride with you?
- Do you drive long distances often or stick mainly to city streets?
- What style of car do you prefer? Are certain colors or brands more important to you than others?
- What kind of special features are must-haves for your ideal vehicle (e.g. heated seats, built in navigation)?
Once you have a good idea of the basics, it’s time to make a list of pros and cons for each candidate that fits your budget so that you can decide on the best option for YOU.
The Law of Supply & Demand
After you've chosen a few cars within your budget, it's time for some investigating. Initially, you'll want to find out if there are a lot of cars on the market for that make and model. The more common the car, you'll have more options to find one in your price range
Cars in high demand tend to cost more than those in low demand because there are more people looking to buy them.
If you've found the perfect car, it's now time to secure financing. We work with reputable lenders who will work hard to get you the best rates for your budget. they'll provide different payment options based on your down payment, income and credit score.
Are You Ready To Buy Your Next Car?
Follow the steps above and you'll be on your way to finding an affordable car that meets all of your needs. Don't forget, we're here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today and let us know how we can help you get behind the wheel of your dream car.
