Whether new or used, knowing how to buy a car in the United States can double the advantages of this type of transaction in favor of the buyer and future owner.
Knowing in advance how to buy a car in the United States can be of great help to simplify a process that may seem cumbersome or complicated at first glance, as well as to get the most out of it and duplicate the related advantages. Throughout the country, there are numerous alternatives for this type of transaction, but almost all of them can be summarized in two large categories: new cars and used cars.
Most people associate dealerships with new cars, but there are also some that offer used cars. Likewise, there is the option of buying a used car from its own owner, which is known as a private or independent purchase.
How to buy a car in the United States?
Before starting to purchase a car in the United States, it is important to consider your budget. That way, you can narrow your search to a specific category: a new car, often more expensive—especially if it was recently manufactured—or a used car, much more affordable.
For people who have the possibility of buying a new car, the process can be a little simpler because the dealers usually take care of all the paperwork, especially the procedures with the corresponding transit agency. When the vehicle is used, the buyer will likely have to complete some of these procedures at checkout.
Whatever the case, some experts and organizations such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommend the following steps:
- After determining the budget, it is important to conduct a search to find the most suitable dealerships. At this point, it is important to consider offers, rebates, discounts, warranties, and any benefits that may contribute to lowering the total price of the vehicle. Choose at least three providers to consult and expand information.
- While searching for a dealer, you can take into account the possibility of finding financing. Many companies can offer loans for the purchase of vehicles to people with a good credit history, but there are also some that do not consider this requirement. Financing is particularly beneficial for covering the cost of new vehicles.
- People who buy used vehicles can request the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) from the seller to obtain detailed information about the vehicle. Through this number, it is possible to determine if the vehicle represents a good deal or if, on the contrary, it should be discarded due to possible accidents or accidents that have occurred in the past that may affect its future performance.
- Check the actual value of the vehicle before making any deal. Especially when it comes to used cars, the Kelley Blue Book can be a great help in obtaining this type of information. Through this organization’s website, you can obtain the actual values for each vehicle on the market to compare them later with the prices offered by dealers.
- When the vehicle being purchased is new, some dealers may also request credit histories or proof of income to determine the buyer’s creditworthiness. In some cases, they can offer financing options, making the procedures much easier.
- Hire an auto insurance company to protect the vehicle and comply with traffic laws, which require a valid and current policy in the state in which the buyer resides.
In addition to dealerships, people who decide to buy a car in the United States also have other alternatives, such as used car auctions, vehicle sales sites, and independent sellers. Although good vehicle options can be found on these sites, it is important to consider all of the above recommendations to ensure the advantages.
Purchases outside of dealerships, in addition to involving additional procedures, may pose a greater risk of fraud. In that sense, the buyer’s main objective should be to obtain the VIN number to request a vehicle history from Carfax. If the seller refuses to provide it, that is enough reason to be suspicious of their offer and to look for other options.
What requirements do I need to buy a car in the United States?
Before carrying out any procedure related to the purchase of a vehicle in the United States, it is important to verify if you have the basic requirements for this process. Although some sellers may require additional proof and documents, it is common to need to have on hand:
- Proof of residence or documents that serve as proof of the buyer’s immigration status. Most foreigners can obtain this type of document by completing a form at the offices of the United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
- Valid driver’s license in the state where the purchase will be made. It will be necessary to consult with the corresponding transit agency about the procedure to obtain it. In most states, you just need to go to a local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office.
- Proof of income, which may be represented by bank statements or monthly pay stubs.
- Present proof of auto insurance. In order to have this proof, many sellers provide the vehicle’s VIN number so that buyers can purchase a valid policy in the state and thus be able to close the purchasing process.
Later, it is necessary to carry out the vehicle registration application at a corresponding DMV office. This process guarantees obtaining license plates, which are necessary to circulate in each state.
