Buying any big-ticket item can be exciting, nerve-wracking and daunting all at the same time, especially if you have not gone through the routine before. You know you need a means of transportation and you know the time is now, but there may also be quite a bit that you do not know. Rather than giving up before you even start, here are five tips to consider as you get ready to purchase your first car.

Educate Yourself

You cannot approach a sales representative without having an idea of the job in front of you. There are technicalities and hidden angles to familiarize yourself with so you can meet the task without fear of being manipulated. A key piece of information you should have filed away is current auto loan rates. Without this knowledge, you may not be able to make an intelligent decision about the vehicle you can realistically afford.

Shop Around

Use the internet to find out the most popular automobile choices on the market. Study the more reliable makes and models and try to discover what is selling. If you are aware of what is moving off the lots, then you will have a better understanding of how desperate or how reserved the dealer may be to work with you. Do not be drawn in by the shiniest, fastest or trendiest option if it is not in your budget. Instead, try to combine what you like, what you yearn for and what you can pay for.

Learn the Language

It is not necessary to become an expert in every component of engine construction, but you do want to acquaint yourself with the words and phrases you will hear throughout the process.  If you stroll into a showroom blindly, you may realize too late that you are in over your head. Do some research based on the appropriate consumer advice. You will most likely see a window sticker that lists dealer price, base price, invoice price and MSRP. If you do not appreciate the differences in these terms, you will put yourself at a disadvantage.

Have a Price in Mind

It is OK to admit that you have a budget. Make a list of the features you absolutely must have as well as the luxuries you can pass on. Visit a variety of websites and use the online shopping tools to build your ideal package before you head out in person. Review the different specs and trims that are available. Browse the packages that are being offered. Carefully peruse any service contracts that are offered to you so you do not agree to something you do not truly need. These advanced preparations will empower you once you're seated at the dealer's and working to nail down final numbers.

Don't Be Afraid To Walk Away

Just as you are hoping to go home with a new set of wheels, it is almost certain that the person on the other end of the deal is hoping to have one less piece of inventory by the time you leave. Coach yourself on the best way to negotiate. If you have taken the time to do your homework and you are geared up with the facts and data, then do not let yourself be swayed. Whether you are using the web to conduct your hunt or if you are buying face to face, you have to stay firm and hit the off switch or leave the building if you are not satisfied. You can always come back another day.  

You are eager to make a good deal and hang your keys on the wall. There are many pitfalls you might encounter while car shopping, but if you stay calm and cool, you can be more assured that you will be successful. In fact, the entire experience can be quite straightforward if you study your resources, browse before you commit or sign, master the vernacular and take a tactical position.