7 reasons why Christmas is great for car buyers

FOR most of us, the thought of buying a car at Christmas is enough to make you spit out our mulled wine.

Our pockets might be considerably lighter this time of year, but as sales of cars dry up over the winter months the prices come down. There is no better time of year to start looking for a used car.

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Here are six reasons why you can grab a bargain motor during the festive period.

1. People need the money

We all feel the pinch at this time of year, which is why people are more willing to offer you a bargain. Whether you’re buying privately or from a dealer, show them the money (literally) and make them an offer they want to refuse – but can’t afford to – netting you a bargain.

2. Prices are slashed

Buying a car might be the last thing on your mind at the moment – which is exactly why you should buy one. Cars still need to be sold by dealers, which is why you can take advantage of the quiet period. At no other time of year are sellers more likely to offer you a discount.

3. Convertibles are cheaper than ever

Who in their right mind would buy a convertible in freezing temperatures? Well, not many of us it turns out. Another reason you can pick up a bargain. Your friends and family might laugh at the idea but come the summer months you’ll be the one smiling.

4. Great present

What better gift is there to give a loved one than a new motor? With a dip in the market a used car will cost you less than you think. New plates are only a few months away too, meaning you can pick up a fairly new car at a discounted rate as well. The biggest problem you’ll have is getting it under the tree.

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5. You’ve time to shop around

The festive period may seem like a hectic one, but that week between Christmas and New Year, where we often don’t know what to do with ourselves, is in fact the best time in the whole year to buy a car. With a bit of luck, you’ll be off work too, giving you more time to have a look around.

6. Dealers are desperate to meet end-of-year targets

It’s not just the car market that’s depressed at this time of year – the salesmen are too. Okay, that’s perhaps a little harsh, but this is the last chance for them to meet those end-of-year targets. This is great news for potential buyers.

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7. New plates aren't far off

Sellers lower the price of used cars as the new plate change is only a few months away, so there's a high chance you can haggle the price down if you've the vehicle has an older registration number.