Buying a used car is way cheaper than getting a new model of the same car, but it is always best to keep an eye on your wallet and your budget before taking financing for your new ride. Financing for a used car, if not done properly, can end up being costlier than getting a loan for a new car, and some dealers can even employ tactics which will ensure that the buyer will find it very hard to get out of the debt.

How prepared are you?
Financing for a used car is not very different from taking a loan for a new car. The cost may vary since the lending is done for a used car which is riskier, leading to a higher interest rate and shorter loan lengths. It is always better to figure out how much one can afford before one can finance for a used car. It is best to visit lenders one already is familiar with like a credit union or bank. If one qualifies for a loan, there are many credit unions who will extend their support.

Improving your credit
It is best to have a good credit score and one can take their time to improve their credit reports. Everyone is entitled one free credit report from each of the three credit bureaus a year to evaluate their credit score. Credit score depends on the total debt one owes and various other obligations compared to an individual’s income. One has to even keep in mind that too much credit on your cards can also impact the score negatively. Responsibly taking care of the credit and keep a very good credit score can help one get better lenders and avail better loan offers.

When to buy?
Having a better credit score will undoubtedly attract many lenders and some really good loan offers. People often commit the mistake of evaluating their monthly expenses for the loan, but what is far more important is the total cost on the car and the interest one will have to pay on repaying the loan. If one discloses the amount one is willing to pay each month, there is a possibility that the dealer could squeeze out more money from the prospective buyers by extending the loan terms, adding extra warranties which may or may not be necessary, and costing you thousands of extra dollars.

Avoiding buy here/pay here
There are dealers who offer loans at rates that are higher than any other rates and just the down payment amount can be enough to buy a new car. They give loans on cars which are already overpriced. If one is in dire need of a vehicle with minimal spending power, then it is best to approach local charity organizations.