Car Brokers - Who Are They and How They Can Help You

Buying a car is an exciting time, but it can also be frustrating, especially right now. Corona virus has severely impacted the Australian car market, with low stock and highly inflated prices on used vehicles becoming the norm.

A recent report by Carsales show that the median price for popular car models has increased significantly compared with pre-pandemic prices, in fact some used car prices have increased by more than 50% of their 2019 worth.  So with low stock and inflated prices how do you find you firstly find your dream vehicle and then negotiate a good deal on the price?

If you're in the market for a quality used car, it may be worth considering the services of a car loan broker.

What is a car broker?

A car broker is basically a vehicle procurement and financing expert who works on your behalf to source you the best vehicle at the best price. 

Regardless of the vehicle, you are looking for, whether that be a family vehicle, work ute, or prestige car, car brokers can help. They have access to extensive wholesale vehicle and dealer networks across the country and often get first access to vehicles before they hit the mainstream market. 

What services does a car broker offer? 

Car brokers offer you a full suite of car buying services. Services include vehicle procurement (finding you your dream vehicle), conducting vehicle inspections to ensure your getting a quality vehicle, negotiating best prices on your behalf, arranging finance, insurance, and delivery right to your door

Why use a car broker in 2021?

In today's volatile market, characterised by inflated prices and low stock, finding the right car is not easy and this is where a car broker can help.

Car brokers remove the stress often associated with buying a car. We know that buying a car is full of challenges and potential traps, especially for inexperienced car buyers. 

If you're not a car expert with an intimate knowledge of the car-buying market you could easily be lured into paying too much for your new vehicle.  Then there is the question of vehicle quality.

There are hundreds of great-looking cars out there, but can you really tell a deal from a dud?  One in six cars in Australia has finance owing and one in sixteen has been recorded as a write-off. If you're not a car expert it's easy to mistake a lemon for a bargain. Your car is the second biggest purchase outside of your home. Can you afford to get it wrong?

How does using a car broker work?

Using a car broker is actually very simple and there's no obligation to buy. Here's how it works. 

1. First, submit your details and vehicle requirements to the car broker including any special requirements like color, make, model, and any special features you desire.  
2. The car broker will then go to work to find a list of vehicles that match your request.
3. Once you choose your perfect vehicle the car broker will then negotiate the best deal on your behalf and if necessary help you arrange finance.
4. Finally, the car broker will complete the purchase on your behalf and arrange for delivery right to your door. 
   
   

Do car brokers save you money?

Not only can a car broker save you money, they can also save you time. How? 

Car brokers are professional car buyers. They have relationships with auction houses, wholesalers, and dealers that allow them to get first access to vehicles. As regular buyers, their relationships also allow them to negotiate lower prices than you might be offered if you were to approach the dealer yourself. 

Car brokers are also car finance specialists and have access to a large panel of potential lenders. They are often able to find you the best low rate finance for your credit profile and circumstances. This alone can save you thousands on loan repayments.

So if we combine the benefits of using a car broker, that is, their ability to find and secure vehicles at a cheaper price and arrange the best finance possible for your circumstances, there are potentially huge savings to be made by using a car brokering service.

How much does it cost to use a car broker to buy your next car?

While some car brokers will charge an upfront service fee for accessing their wholesale stock lists and dealer networks, at Ausloans we offer this service for free through our vehicle buying service  Drive Approved.  

To clarify this point, at Drive Approved there is no upfront service fee. The broker works on commission only and will only be paid if they are able to secure you a vehicle.  

If I use a car broker can I trade in my existing vehicle?

The short answer to this is yes and in today's low stock climate it is something that is encouraged, especially if you are looking to trade a later model vehicle. With that said, there are limits to what dealerships would define as a worthy trade-in.  Key determining factors usually include vehicle age, odometer readings, and the general condition of the vehicle.

Takeaway

While using a car broker is not usually for everyone, these are unprecedented times. Covid 19 has had a significant impact on the Australian car market resulting in increased prices and limited stock. For consumers, it is more difficult than ever to find the perfect vehicle at the perfect price which makes using a car broker a smart alternative.