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Three tips on buying a car during tax season

When people start recieving income tax refunds, many think about using that money to put towards a new or used car. Here are three things to keep in mind if you're buying a car at this time.

  1. Tax return season is one of the busiest times of the year in the retail automible industry. If you have a specific vehicle in mind, act quickly, or you may find that it gets sold before you know it.
  2. Prices are always higher at this time of year. You will pay a premium, especially for used cars. This is because wholesale supplies are low at this time of year, since dealers increase inventory to meet expected demand. If you don't need a new vehicle right now, you may be wise to hold off until the market calms down, usually beginning in May.
  3. Just because you have a pocket full of cash doesn't mean you have to spend all of it right now. Think about car loan payments, maintnance and insurance costs down the road for the vehicle you choose.

As always, purchasing a vehicle is a major purchase, so don't let your emotions rule the day. Keep a clear head and let logic guide your decisions.

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More information on this topic is available on the Used Car Blog.

, Atlantic City Car Buying Examiner

Paul Green has held almost every job imaginable in an automobile dealership showroom over the last 28 years, from lot attendant and detailer, to sales, financing, and used car manager. He regularly blogs at www.villagegreenauto.com/used-car-blog/ on the automobile shopping experience. His tips...

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