Car buying tips:

• Get pre-approved! Find out what you can afford or what you want to spend before you start shopping. This will help protect you from impulse buying.  Click here for fast easy pre-approval.
  
  
• Shop for your needs.  Match the kind of auto you shop for to the type of driving you do. Don't let others influence your buying decisions.
  
  
• What's it worth? Whether you're selling your old vehicle outright or considering a trade-in, find out how much it is worth. The Kelly Blue Book  has information for all makes and models up to eight years old. You can visit them online at www.kbb.com .
  
  
• What's your price?  Determine the price you can expect to pay for the auto you're considering. Brett Broghammer, Cities Credit Union's Auto Consultant has access to computer software to help assist you free of charge.
  
  
• Shop around.  Don't let " low rates" or "0%" stop you from shopping around and be sure to watch for hidden charges.
  
  
• Know your dealer. Do some research on the dealership you are purchasing from to make sure they are reputable.
  
  
• Check on the car - It is a good idea to always run a CARFAX to determine the vehicle history. You should also have it looked at by your mechanic.
  
  
• Protect yourself.  Consider purchasing Extended Warranties, Credit Life Insurance, or Disability Insurance for protection.

Car Selling Tips:

•  Fully assess your car's condition. Know the condition of your car before setting a sell price, Drive the car to make sure it operates properly, Know the car's problem's before they're discovered by the buyer. 
   

• Fix any small repairs or inexpensive problems.  A few minor adjustments and repairs may give you a better price by making the vehicle more desirable.  Be sure the interior is spotless.

• Be prepared to answer questions.  Be able to describe the car, discuss the service history, and admit accident repairs.  You may want to provide a CARFAX report on your vehicle. 

• Don't quote your lowest price.  It's okay to be flexible, but be sure everything is discussed and the vehicle is seen and test driven before you discuss the final price.  Never negotiate over the phone.  

• Learn about the buyer before you let them test drive.  This may prevent dishonesty and auto theft. 

• Firmly establish the vehicle as "as is."  This will protect you from any problems discovered later. 

• Discuss payment options.  On private party deals, only accept cash, cashier's check, or a money order.