Car buying: Moody learns to drive away with good deals

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Greg Nash
  • 23d Wing/Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Individuals seeking changes with their current means of transportation attended a car buying seminar, Feb. 9, 2016, at Moody Air Force Base, Ga.

This seminar, which is a part of February's Military Saves Month, was designed to teach car buyers how to automobile shop to save big and not be taken advantage of by car salesmen.

"It's important to do your homework when car shopping, especially for younger service members who aren't as experienced with the [car buying] process," said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Neal Owens, 723d Aircraft Maintenance Squadron director of staff, who hosted event. "I don't like homework, but this homework saves you thousands of dollars."

Owens, who is credited with buying and helping contribute to approximately 100 car-buying processes, has used his savviness to save thousands on cars. To follow his path, picking the actual car you want is the first step in the right direction.

According to Owens, when deciding on a desired car, factoring in and considering the resale value, warranties, insurance rates and planning for short-term or long-term usability is essential before going to a dealership prior to the test drive. Once this information is gathered, you can start to ensure if the vehicle is right for you.

"Once you find the ideal car, you should do more research," said Owens. "Research the sticker price costs and then get the true market value. It's also important to know all available rebates and incentives. All of this will help you become more knowledgeable and gives you the power."

According to Owens, another way to empower your car-buying experience is knowing your credit score, which directly affects your interest rate and can be essential in getting a pre-approved loan. All of this contributes to when you'll be ready to buy a car before bargaining.

"One of the most important aspects in the car buying process is the negotiation," said Owens. "Once you've done your homework, you know what to ask for and expect without feeling pressure at the dealership. You'll know to negotiate sale prices and be unafraid to ask for routine maintenance, extended warranties, and car accessories for additional offerings. This proactive approach guides you to be satisfied with a potential deal. If the deal isn't what you're looking for, then walk away."

If you're not walking away, you are probably driving away with your newly purchased vehicle. According to Owens, the deal isn't over and the negotiating process is still in action. Visiting the finance department and avoiding any unnecessary dealer add-on options such as fabric and paint protection, is ideal. Furthermore, he states using all these resources will educate car buyers into not shopping based on emotion, which can be dangerous.

"Keep your emotions in check when deciding on your car selection," said Owens. "A car will most likely be the second most expensive purchase you will ever make besides a home. It's a major decision and local dealers can detect service members and try to take advantage of the situation by pressuring you into bad deals. That's why this seminar was designed - to prepare you all to have new wheels while potentially saving thousands."

For more information about Military Savings Month, individuals can contact the Airman and Family Readiness Center at 229-257-4146.