Finance 101

For some car shoppers, it may seem like financing a new car involves learning a new language. That's why we at LaSorsa Chevrolet Buick have written about some of the basics of vehicle financing. From important terms to how the process works, we've included some of the things we think everyone should know before they start shopping for a new car.

There are two basic ways to get a car: buy or lease. You can buy a car with cash, but most people choose to finance. When financing, you'll pay roughly 10 to 20% of the sticker price as a down payment, borrowing the rest from a lender (like the dealership). Then you'll make payments for a few years until you own the car. Leasing is much like renting-you pay little to nothing down and you have lower monthly payments. However, when you lease, you give the car back at the end of the term.

When financing, you'll need a few materials. For example, you should have a driver's license, proof of insurance, and the title of your trade-in vehicle (if applicable). The dealership will likely need run your credit score if you're financing through us, which means it's a good idea to know your score before you come in.

You can finance through a range of lenders, but there are two reasons to consider financing through a dealership. First, it's easier. A dealership can find you a range of financing options quickly and efficiently; otherwise, you may need to drive from bank to bank to shop around. Second, dealerships have a relationship with lenders in the area and across the nation, which means you could end up getting a better deal thanks to our experienced staff.