Figure Out Your Needs

• You want a car that is suitable for your life. For instance, if you live in a city and need to squeeze into tight parking spaces, you probably want a compact car. However, if you are always hauling big items, you might want a truck. If you find yourself heading to the mountains to snowboard every weekend, you may need a car with four-wheel drive. If you live by the beach and have mild weather, maybe you want a convertible. When figuring out what kind of car is best suited to your life, consider what you'll be using your car for, how far you'll be driving and where you live.
  
  

Create A Budget

• After you've determined what kind of car is best suited for you, it is important to create a budget to guide you in your search. You want to get the best car you can afford, but you also don't want to go broke. Because cars lose value quickly, you can't consider a car purchase as a long-term investment. Therefore, it is best not to blow all your savings in the purchase of a car. Don't forget that you'll also have to pay vehicle registration fees and annual car insurance, so you need to have money set aside for that.
  In creating your budget, consider where your money is going to come from. Is it going to come from a summer job? Are your parents going to help fund the purchase of the car? Knowing how much money you have to work with is crucial before beginning your search.
  Also, do research as to how much the car you are looking at should cost. Good resources to determine the true value of the car you are looking at are consumer Internet sites and the Kelly Blue Book.
  
  

Search For Your Dream Car

• You can find plenty of good deals on new and used cars these days. Your local dealerships might have a wide selection of cars that are appropriate for your needs and budget. You should also consider purchasing your car from a private seller. Private sellers can be found through newspaper classifieds or online. No matter who you go to, remember to negotiate. When it comes to cars, no price is set in stone. You can negotiate the actual purchase price or even the inclusion of extended warranties. It might be helpful to have a parent or trusted person come with you to help bargain for your car.