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Buying a local car via text or email

How to get new wheels without having to walk into a dealership

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If you are less concerned about taking a test drive or getting whiffs of that new car smell from lots of different vehicles, you might consider negotiating your next car deal without leaving your house.

Adam Nunn, whose dad served 20 years in the Air Force, recently bought a car via text messaging.

“I found a dealer willing to negotiate via text by explaining it was the only way I’d consider doing it,” Nunn said.

The buying experience was more relaxed, and in the end, Nunn saved thousands on the deal.

Buying a car digitally also helps those that don’t like haggling face to face. CreditDonkey.com released a recent survey that found 38.8% of respondents said they rarely haggle, while Consumer Reports found that those who do try to bargain for a better deal are “mostly” successful in lowering the price.

In the 21st Century, deals via text or email are easiest if you secure your loan first.

Heather Lucas, loan manager at Harborstone Credit Union said more and more people are buying cars without stepping into the dealership.

This can be tough, however, if you aren’t sure what you can afford and at what interest rate you qualify to receive.

“You are better off knowing the value of your trade in, as well as what type of new or used car you can fully finance,” Lucas added.

At Harborstone, Lucas said loan agents are advocates of their members, therefore, going over the details before involving an auto dealership not only saves time, but makes it possible to make an offer on a car you know is backed up by your lender. You also receive great advice from experts in auto loans, rather than hope the dealership will have your best interests in mind.

Nunn said that made all the difference for him.

“I didn’t have to get qualified by the dealer – therefore, I had the confidence to make my offer and know the deal wouldn’t fall apart during the signing.”

Lucas said Harborstone doesn’t have different rates for new and used cars. The big thing to know in advance is what a lender can finance on a used car which often depends on how many miles that car has on its odometer. She said cars over 10 years typically need more than the once over.

Lucas said Harborstone can also go over other programs such as gap insurance, and how extended warranties can affect the price. The more you know going into the negotiations, the better prepared you are. Plus, the more you know, the less you need to actually talk to someone at the dealership on the phone or face to face.

“It’s all about holding the cards and being confident in what you can afford,” Nunn added. “It makes all of the difference.”

For more information, click https://www.harborstone.com/home/personal/loans-credit-cards/vehicle-loans

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