MANILA, Philippines — It has become common for Filipinos to enter a mall and see cars on display available for on-the-spot application and purchase.
And while prices can range from affordable to aspirational, this sight is enough to make you dream of getting your first-ever ride or much-deserved upgrade.
Take these five simple steps and get closer to your awesome brand new car:
1. Think of the car you really need.
There’s one car that suits your need more than your want or your budget. Don’t get easily attracted to “macho” cars like that attention-grabbing SUV. Ask first if you are actually driving it off the road or to the countryside. If not, a compact SUV may be a better option. Don’t be tempted with unbelievably low deals either. At the very least, make sure that the deal doesn’t have hidden charges that may shock you in the buying process.
When choosing your car, it’s best to begin by knowing where you will be driving often, how many passengers you may be carrying, and how much garage or parking space you have.
2. Be an informed buyer.
Never meet potential car dealers uninformed. It is best to do your own research first. Begin by reading reviews of the car you have been eyeing and checking out the car maker's website. With this, you will know the car's full features and its actual performance from personal accounts of those who has driven the car. You can also compare models in the same price range and consider similar models.
This way, when it's finally time to talk to your car dealer, you can set your expectations and ask the right questions.
3. Master your driving skills.
While still searching for your perfect car-match or negotiating with your car dealer, work on being a better driver. Enroll in a formal driving lesson if you’re a newbie. Once completed, start applying for a driver’s license, which can take longer to process here in the Philippines.
For licensed drivers, you can still take a refresher course. You may be getting rusty with road rules without realizing it.
4. Plan your savings and stick to it.
A car is an investment that involves ample planning and saving. Once you know the downpayment price of your dream car, decide the time when you will settle it. Then calculate the amount of money you need to save monthly for the downpayment. With this, saving won’t be hard to shoulder.
More importantly, stick to your devised savings plan by being frugal and avoiding unnecessary spending, which may take away your car savings.
5. Get the lowest amortization for your car loan.
On top of your savings, apply for a car loan that allows you to amortize your car payment monthly. The best deal out there is Metrobank's ongoing car loan promo with the lowest monthly amortization of P8,000 only! Promo runs until September 11 so grab this opportunity that makes owning your awesome car simpler and faster.
Metrobank offers car, home and personal loans that offers easy financing and worry-free payments. Click here to apply or visit the nearest Metrobank branch now.