An important part of college life is the ability to be able to manage different schedules in your life with your studies. The commute to college by public transport is tedious and takes a lot more time than it should. If you live off-campus, a car of your own will turn this difficult process into a smooth part of your day. With one thing less to worry about, you can focus more clearly on your studies and juggle time effectively between college schedule, your personal life and your part-time job.
Buying a car is not a small investment. Most people, unless they are extraordinarily rich, need an auto loan to get them started. And as a college student, you will need it as well. The good news is that it does not take much to do it right. Just keep in mind some factors while choosing which lender and car you want to go with, and follow the procedure.
Choosing a Car
Buying a brand new car, which you will struggle to pay for, is not advisable. Most college students buy a used car as their first auto purchase. It is economical and practical.
Plan out your budget before you start looking at cars. List out your expenses and income/allowance, and have a clear idea of what kind of payments you are comfortable with.
While choosing a car, think carefully about fuel efficiency. SUVs, for example, will not only squeeze you for more money, but also use up more fuel. Consider the average miles you get per gallon from each car and make the smart choice.
Other costs
While applying for a student auto loan, be clear about your financial stature with the lender. This will help in establishing a doable payment structure for you. Consider other expenses like maintenance, insurance, fuel and repair and add them to the amount you will spend in buying the vehicle.
How can your Parents help you?
Convince your parents to sell their old car. Exchanging that car with the dealer for the one you’re buying will help in lowering the price. A lower price increases the possibility of paying the loan amount back on time. Also, after paying the money back, your credit history will show that you can make calculated financial decisions.
If your parents live in another state, you need not be concerned. Most lenders will not worry about an out-of-state co-signer.
Web Research
Go online and search for the kind of student auto loan deals that you want. Fortunately, there are lenders who are willing to meet with you and discuss terms and conditions clearly according to your needs. Find lenders who encourage college buyers. They will not be bothered much about your non-existent credit history.
Finalize the deal with someone you feel comfortable with. Remember that every time you make your payments, you will take a step closer to having a car of your own.
The word auto loan, especially for students, sounds daunting. But there is nothing complicated about it if done thoughtfully and well. Select an appropriately priced car, figure out the payment amount you can afford and make payments routinely. It’s as easy as that.
