How To Handle Buying A Car When You're Relocating To The USA

expat network

How To Handle Buying A Car When You’re Relocating To The USA

Living in a new country can be overwhelming, and tackling something as significant as purchasing a car may seem especially daunting in this context. To reduce the trepidation you feel approaching this as an expat in the US, here are some ways to secure your ideal set of wheels, and some must-know facts about auto ownership in this part of the world.

Navigating the New Car Market in the USA

If you’re leaning towards buying a brand-new vehicle after relocating to the USA, there’s good news! It’s highly likely you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for relatively easily given that America is known for its vast and diverse auto market.

Dealerships abound nationwide, offering vehicles from versatile SUVs and sleek sedans to electric cars by major manufacturers like Tesla. Keep an eye on deals during prominent sales periods such as holiday weekends or end of model year events when shopping at these outlets could net more favorable prices.

Regardless of your choice though, make sure to conduct thorough research to ensure satisfying investment in your mobility asset.

The Ins and Outs of Buying a Pre-Owned Vehicle

Choosing to buy a pre-owned vehicle is often an economical decision. In the United States, used cars are just as commonly sold as new ones, sometimes even more so.

This means there are options at every price point, and makes bargain deals possible depending on your negotiation skills. So it’s crucial to have some understanding of market values before embarking on this journey in different regions.

Whether you want to purchase pre-owned vehicles in Southwest Houston, San Francisco or any other part of the country, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Just be certain that the dealer you’re buying from is reputable, and avoid private sales unless you’re very car-savvy. Also insist on service history reports before committing, and consider getting independent inspections for insurance purposes prior making your final selection.

Exploring Your Options: Renting or Leasing a Car in the States

If commitment to buying a vehicle doesn’t quite appeal, you could consider renting or leasing. Renting is often perfect for short-term needs, providing flexibility without long-term obligations. If you’re planning an extended stay but not permanent residence in the USA, this might be your best bet. Opt for renowned companies like Enterprise or Budget that offer protracted rental periods at competitive rates.

On another hand, leasing serves as a half-way house between renting and owning. You get longer term use of a newer model car based on monthly payments over the pre-agreed lease period (often 2-3 years). It can also involve lower down-payments and systematic maintenance costs compared with outright ownership.

Keep in mind that both options require you to commit to complex contracts, and to adhere to any mileage caps that are usually imposed when you don’t take full ownership of a car as part of these arrangements.

Mastering the Basics: Insurance, Registration and Consumer Protection Laws

Relocating to the USA is not without its share of challenges. When it comes to purchasing a vehicle, wrapping your head around various new processes becomes vital for a smooth transition.

Vehicle Insurance: First up, know that insurance is mandatory before driving off any lot with your chosen set of wheels. It can range from minimum liability coverage to comprehensive plans offering more robust protection. There are ways to lower your premiums wherever you live.
Registration Matters: You’re also required to register your vehicle at the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This process includes title transfer (ownership proof), number plate assignments, and most importantly annual renewal fees!
Consumer Protection Laws: Finally, awareness of consumer rights is useful when buying or leasing cars here. Yes, you are protected against deceptive sales practices via an assortment of state and federal regulations. Helpful resources like the Federal Trade Commission’s buyers guide can make navigating these waters easier.

Wrapping Up

Now you know that expats in the US have all sorts of options for buying a car, it’s down to you to take the next steps and end up behind the wheel of your dream American automobile.

Moving Abroad Checklist

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.