Kbb.Com Offers 10 Tips For First-Time Car Buyers

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Kelley Blue Book www.kbb.com, the leading provider of new car and used car information, today offers 10 Tips for First-Time Car Buyers, including what, how and where to buy.

Buying a car for the first time is a celebratory moment in anyone's life, regardless of age, and the site's expert editors offer their 'best kept secrets' to ease the trip to the dealer with these easy-to-remember pointers.

"The car-buying process is never filled with as much uncertainty as it is for the first time," said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com.  "With this advice in mind, Kelley Blue Book hopes to alleviate some of the stress inherent with such a large financial decision."

Below is an abridged version of the editor's 10 Tips for First-Time Car Buyers:

10.  Establish a realistic budget

This figure is generally based on what you can afford per month.  Calculate your cost-of-living in all the more important areas, like shelter, food, health insurance and Happy Hour.  Once you have that total, the remainder could be spent on a car payment, car insurance and, of course, gas for your new ride.

9.  Know what you can spend monthly

While this may look similar to #10, your level of indebtedness is different from your monthly commitment.  If you choose to finance your car, figure $25/month for every thousand dollars that you borrow for 48 months, and $20/month for 60-month financing.  

8.  Establish your transportation needs

Make sure to choose a car that best fits your needs.  For instance, if your lifestyle or career requires a car for hauling heavy items, then invest in a larger, heavy-duty vehicle. Given the cost of fuel, insurance and – in many cities – monthly parking, don't buy what you don't need.  

7.  Identify and prioritize your wants

The first-time purchase doesn't need to be your be-all/end-all acquisition, but you should still pay attention to your 'want' list.  Better to stretch a bit for those features that will bring more satisfaction in your purchase and prevent buyer's remorse.

6.  Do your research (it's never been easier)

There is an incredible amount of information and perspective on new cars and their late-model alternatives.  There are listings devoted to cars for teenagers, cars for students and first-time buyers.  Check out Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com expert reviews, owner reviews and consumer guides for more information on your future ride.

5.  Locate a convenient dealer

Don't feel intimidated, as the dealership salesman is closer to a normal person than you think.  When deciding between different car models, compare dealer locations and showroom environments.  We tend to stay away from dealerships where two-thirds of the sales staff is sitting or standing at the front of the entrance.    

For the remaining first-time car buyer tips, with detailed commentary for each, visit http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/10-tips-for-first_time-car-buyers/.  For more information and news from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, visit www.kbb.com/media/, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/kelleybluebook (or @kelleybluebook), or like our page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kbb. 

About Kelley Blue Book (www.kbb.com)

Founded in 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource®, is the only vehicle valuation and information source trusted and relied upon by both consumers and the industry.  Each week the company provides the most market-reflective values in the industry on its top-rated website www.kbb.com, including its famous Blue Book® Trade-In and Retail Values and Fair Purchase Price, which reports what others are paying for new cars this week.  The company also provides vehicle pricing and values through various products and services available to car dealers, auto manufacturers, finance and insurance companies as well as governmental agencies.  Kbb.com provides consumer pricing and information on minivans, pickup-trucks, cars, hybrids and SUVs.  Kelley Blue Book Co. Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of AutoTrader.com.

SOURCE Kelley Blue Book