In today’s automotive landscape, U.S. car shoppers are increasingly looking for convenience, speed, transparency, and what to look for in a car when navigating a big financial decision. According to CarGurus, about half of buyers finance their cars online and offline equally. Meanwhile, 95% of vehicle buyers begin their journey online, spending an average of 14 hours and 39 minutes researching before making a purchase. These trends show that understanding things to consider when buying a car has never been more important.
Convenience & Digital Research Matter
Before stepping into a dealership, 88% of potential buyers research vehicles online. Many evaluate models, watch videos, and compare prices across 4.2 websites on average. This shift underscores key buying criteria like digital accessibility, transparent pricing, and real-time support.
Learn More: How Dealerships Calculate the Worth of Your Car
At The Car Trackers, we meet this digital-first expectation with our quick and accurate video appraisal. You can connect by smartphone, show what to look for in a car, and get a final offer—all from home. No wasted weekends at dealerships.
Pricing & Payment Preferences
With the average new-car monthly payment around $742 and used vehicles at $525, affordability plays a central role. High interest rates (some above 14%) have driven used-car prices to decline recently—average retail prices are now near $25,328.
Shoppers look for things to consider when buying a car like interest rates, loan terms, and hidden fees—elements included in our car purchase advice when offering instant same-day financing during pickup.
Learn More: Step-by-Step Guide to Selling Your Car Privately
Trade‑In & Vehicle Condition
Nearly one-third of buyers return to the original dealer due to trust and familiarity. Yet many find advantages in online offers. Carvana, for instance, claims to beat many dealers by roughly $1,000 .
At The Car Trackers, we pledge competitive offers our licensed appraisers offer more than dealership value. The process: schedule a 10‑minute video call, show what to look for in a car, get an instant offer, sign paperwork, and schedule pickup with payment wired the same day.
what to consider when buying a car: Safety, History & Wear
Buyers today value transparent reports and visible vehicle condition. Things to include:
- Maintenance and repair records
- Accident history and ownership
- Exterior/interior condition, tire wear, and mileage
Our video appraisal ensures these things to consider when buying a car are addressed in real time.
Practical tips to buying a car
- Do online research first — 95% of buyers do .
- Create a shortlist, then assess things to consider when buying a car: financing, condition, and convenience.
- Watch vehicle videos for authentic conditions—ours takes just 10 minutes.
- Verify payment terms—with The Car Trackers, you get fast wire transfers or certified checks at pickup.
- Know your post-sale rights—we provide a bill of sale and handle title transfers.
Final Take
American car shoppers prioritize what to look for in a car along with what to consider when buying a car—with digital ease, competitive pricing, and transparent deals topping the list. With high numbers of buyers financing online, seeking mobile-friendly options, and emphasizing convenience, services like The Car Trackers are responding to modern demands.
We provide car purchase advice that addresses these trends head‑on: fast video appraisals, instant offers, hassle-free payment, and fully managed paperwork. If you’re looking for key buying criteria that combine simplicity with maximum returns, this is it.
