My First Ford

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How I Survived - and Actually Enjoyed - My First Car Buying Experience
by Jeff Nerstander, One Satisfied Customer

‘Car buying’ was a phrase I was brought up to hate. Growing up, when someone in the family announced they were in the market for a new car, a collective sigh filled the room. So when the time came for me buy my first car, my initial thought was “HELP!”

Fortunately, in this technology age, help wasn’t far away. Aside from some ghastly advice I received from family and friends, I was able to really hone in on one really good rule of thumb: Do your research. With the internet at my disposal, I found researching car buying methods was really a fantastic way to learn about the industry, sales pitches, and financing options.

Money, unfortunately, was my big obstacle. I only had $5,000 to plunk down on a car. Could I even find a decent one for that price?

I live in Gulfport and knew I wanted to stay in the area to look for a car. With gas prices as high as they are, traveling a long distance just wasn’t worth it for a $5,000 car. I surfed the internet, searched the classifieds, and finally decided to contact a dealer. I figured the pros could make this real easy for me. Turns out I was right.

An ad for Darryl ‘Your Car Guy’ at Russ Mullin Ford Lincoln Mercury caught my eye. I headed over to their lot on Highway 49. I immediately knew I’d leave there with a new car - well, new to me that is. Darryl came right out and took me over to the pre-owned car lot. I told him my budget and he pointed out five cars that were in my price range. I was pretty impressed by the selection, especially given I only had $5,000 to spend. After a spin around the block, I settled on a little Ford Focus - black with tinted windows.

Into the back office we went to figure out a payment plan. Given my situation I knew I would buy the car, but I still chose to finance $3,000 plus tax and license. Fifteen minutes later I was tooling around Gulfport in my new ride.

See, car buying is easy if you just do your research. Oh, and I think Darryl at Russ Mullin had a little something to do with it too!

Sure glad I could help you, Jeff.

* In Mississipi, contact Darryl Your Car Guy at Russ Mullin Ford Lincoln Mercury in Gulfport, MS Phone: (479)-283-7147