Is now a better time to look for a new or used vehicle? New car prices are at their lowest point in almost two years, according to Kelley Blue Book. Used car prices are down slightly from 2023. And dealers are again offering incentives.
You can find some of the best deals through Tropical Financial Credit Union. From June 8-23, it will hold a virtual car sale with over 70 dealers and special member pricing. Credit union members can take advantage of a quarter-point discount on the annual percentage rate (APR) on a car loan when they use the no-cost Tropical Financial Auto Advisors service. They can also defer the first payment for 90 days.
What can TFCU’s partner Auto Advisors do for you? (or something along these lines) First, it will guide you through the many choices of vehicles and identify multiple dealers. Next, the service will help you negotiate the best price on the car or truck that’s right for you.
There are other ways to save when you hunt for your next vehicle:
- Before shopping, learn the market value of new and used models. You can find current prices on the websites of companies like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds.
- Get pre-approved at Tropical Financial. Before you walk into a showroom, you will know how much car you can afford and what you will pay monthly to finance it. That will strengthen your position with a dealer that wants you to upsell you to a more expensive vehicle or pressure you into using its financing.
- Don't take a dealer’s first offer or even its second. If you are not fully satisfied, keep looking. With Tropical Financial’s Virtual Car Sale, you can shop for dozens of deals from the comfort of your home computer.
- Negotiate multiple aspects of the contract: Use your Auto Advisor for a better sales price. If you have a trade-in, know its market value and hold firm on that figure. Seek waivers of the dealer’s add-on fees. Some are required, such as tax, title and license. Others, such as an extended warranty and appearance protection, are optional and can be declined.
- Consider a used car: While not the bargains they once were, the Tropical Financial Virtual Car Sale will help you find a pre-owned vehicle suited to your needs and budget. Be sure to research current market prices and investigate the car’s condition.
Prepare for the June car sale by visiting Tropical Financial’s auto loan webpage to learn how much you can afford and use its payment calculator. Not yet a credit union member, but still want to take advantage of the car sale?
