Category: Apartment Hunting

20 DC Apartments for $1800 or Less

Posted on by Miriam Martinez

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Top-20-apartments-in-dc-under-1800

 This week we found 20 apartments for under $1800 available to rent now in Washington, DC! Apartment hunting on a budget in Washington, DC can be challenging. It’s all about what trades you are willing to make.  A less trendy neighborhood will likely result in a larger apartment or a lower rent. Is a state of the art gym a must-have amenity for you? That’s okay, just know that you’re going to be squeezing into a smaller apartment.  The good news is, there are plenty of options!  This week we bring you 20 apartments for under $1800 available to rent now!

Looking for something different?
Search other available apartments in the Washington, DC area.

apartments-under-1800-1400-van-buren-street-washington-dc-apartments

1400 Van Buren

One Bedroom $1395

1400 Van Buren NW
Washington, DC 20012

1400 Van Buren is an apartment community with one and two-bedroom apartments for rent in the Brightwood neighborhood. You will feel comfortable and at home in these apartments with their beautiful hardwood flooring, ceiling fans, central A/C, and spacious floor plans. The apartments are located in a charming brick building with controlled access, on-site maintenance, on-site management, on-site laundry facilities, and more. 1400 Van Buren’s convenient location gives residents access to everything they need on a daily basis.

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Park Chelsea at the Collective

Studio  $1800

880 New Jersey Avenue SE
Washington, DC 20003

Park Chelsea at the Collective is the first phase of three buildings that make up The Collective.  The concept is that no matter at which of the three buildings you live, you have access to amenities at all three buildings.  Amenities include indoor pools, rooftop heated pools, clubrooms, fitness centers, Peloton bikes, golf simulator, hydro massage beds, and even a Whole Foods on site.  This time of year, you can get great deals on apartments and this studio for $1800 is an exceptional value for everything you get with your rent!

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Alexander Gardens

1 Bedroom  $982

1617 17th Street SE 
Washington, DC 20020

Park Pleasant located off 16th Street in the District of Columbia. Beautifully landscaped, this comfortable, sought-after community is convenient to Adams Morgan, is within walking distance of the Columbia Heights Metro Station, and is four blocks the new Target and Staples! Park Pleasant offers affordable, spacious studios, one bedroom and one bedroom/den apartments. So don’t delay, call or visit Park Pleasant today!

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Park Pleasant

1 Bedroom  $1700

3339 Mt. Pleasant Street NW
Washington, DC 20010

Welcome to Park Pleasant located off 16th Street in the District of Columbia. Beautifully landscaped, this comfortable, sought-after community is convenient to Adams Morgan, is within walking distance of the Columbia Heights Metro Station, and is four blocks the new Target and Staples! Park Pleasant offers affordable, spacious studios, one bedroom and one bedroom/den apartments. So don’t delay, call or visit Park Pleasant today!

Apartments-with-all-utilities-included-Baystate-Apartments

Baystate Apartments

Studio  $1595

1701 Massachusetts Ave NW
Washington, DC 20036

Looking for features that look and feel like they came from a book and tell a story? The Baystate offers beautiful studio apartments for rent in a variety of floor plans. All utilities are included! No need to worry about extra bills. With the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, DC only two blocks from your front door, be fascinated with local culture and flavor. Having the Red Line Metro within walking distance means all of Washington, DC is yours to explore. Find touches of extraordinary in the every day.

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The Kenmore

1 Bedroom  $1749

5415 Connecticut Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20015

Experience a lifestyle that is as rich in history as it is in local activities. The Kenmore’s Connecticut Avenue location is distinct and convenient. This residence offers a 24-hour concierge beautifully renovated, classic style interiors. Spacious studios, one and two bedroom apartments are equipped with expansive windows that offer exceptional views.

rent-control-apartments-DC-Frontenanc

Studio  $1560

4550 Connecticut Ave NW
Washington, DC 20008

The Frontenac is nestled in the heart of elegant upper-Northwest. The Frontenac boasts spacious apartments with updated kitchens and bathrooms. Its classic architectural style, evident in our grand lobby’s high ceiling and in our apartment units’, arched doorways and traditional wainscoting, attracts tours of local art history students.You can meet your neighbors or take advantage of WiFi on the Frontenac’s peaceful roof deck or in its spacious laundry room. Take a stroll to the Van Ness metro station, Giant, Whole Foods, pharmacies, dry cleaners, restaurants, shopping, and great schools for students of all ages. Our neighborhood is full of hidden gems..

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The Channel Apartments

Studio  $1778

950 Maine Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20024

The Channel is the beating heart at the center of The Wharf. With an industrial design aesthetic and jaw-dropping amenity spaces, including a one-acre rooftop green space, this is an urban lifestyle that’s here to be explored, taken in, and experienced like never before. These stylish apartment residences, situated in the heart of a bold and vibrant waterfront neighborhood, are designed to deliver both modern beauty and faultless functionality. Join the ranks of those who live life amplified and move to The Channel today.

rent-control-apartments-DC-Frontenanc

The Swift at Petworth Metro

Studio  $1800

3828 Georgia Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20011

The Swift is one of our favorite communities in the Petworth neighborhood. The Swift’s beautiful apartments, luxurious amenities, and fantastic location allow residents to fully immerse and enjoy themselves in city life. The building offers studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments. The apartments are pet-friendly, spacious, and comfortable, while still maintaining a luxurious and stylish feel. Residents have access to a clubroom, fitness center, a rooftop with lounging areas, grills, and a fire pit. Whether you are simply coming and going from your apartment or lounging on the rooftop, any and all dogs and other pets are more than welcome. 

All-Utilities-Included-DC-Apartments-Hampton-Courts-Apartments

Hampton Courts

Studio  $1095

2013 New Hampshire Ave NW
Washington, DC 20009

***Special Note about this unit.  It does have a full kitchen.  But with that location and the service at this building, this unit is a steal!!!****

Constructed in 1926, Hampton Courts has the elegant appeal of the early 20th-century architecture. The building is equipped with two elevators, a controlled intercom entrance, and a laundry room with a card payment system. The studio, one, and two bedroom apartments at Hampton Courts has updated appliances and spacious floor plans. All utilities are included in your rent, so no need to worry yourself about additional bills. The U Street Metro Station is three blocks away and provides access to the yellow and green lines. Zipcar and car2go vehicles, as well as Capital Bikeshare bicycles, are just a block from the building giving you endless means of transportation. The Saturday Farmer’s Market, Yes Organic Market, Trader Joes, Vida Fitness and several yoga studios are all a few blocks away from your front door. Come and explore the city living in Hampton Courts.

apartments-under-1800-Twin-Oaks-Apartments-Columbia-Heights-NW-DC-Apartments-Kitchen-Bar-View

Studio  $1350

3802 14th Street NW
Washington, DC 20011

Twin Oaks is a Columbia Heights apartment community that consists of two unique buildings with a variety of studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments for rent. Situated at the intersection of 14th Street and Quincy Street NW, Twin Oaks Apartments conveniently connects its residents to a unique group of local shopping and dining hot spots. The apartments and amenities will make you feel right at home. Enjoy spacious floorplans, hardwood floors, and central AC in the units while having access to the building’s on-site maintenance and management, laundry facilities, and package receiving services.

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Dupont Apartments

Studio  $1535

1717 20th Street NW
Washington, DC 20009

Living at the Dupont Apartments will give you the lifestyle you want, and the location you need. The apartments feature hardwood floors, high ceilings, and spacious floorplans in a controlled access building. You will love the floorplans at Dupont Apartments. They have the best micro-units in DC, and several one-bedroom floorplans to choose from. The building is located in one of the most desired locations in all of DC. DuPont Circle provides easy access to public transportation, a variety of restaurant and entertainment options, and a quick commute to many of DC’s finest attractions.

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6100 14th Street

1 Bedroom  $1389

6100 14th Street NW
Washington, DC 20011

Located in the Brightwood neighborhood of Washington, DC. There are no limitations set when living at 6100 14th street; tons of shopping and dining options nearby, a Metro bus stop right at your doorstep and only a mile to the nearest metro station. Offering spacious and affordable one and two bedroom apartment homes.

Apartments-all-utilities-included-dc-Cambridge-square

Cambridge Square Apartments

1 Bedroom  $1595

4909 Battery Lane
Bethesda, MD 20814

Downtown Bethesda is growing by leaps and bounds, and you’ll find Cambridge Square at the heart of it all. This jewel of a property is so convenient, yet quietly backs up to a park setting. Experience a wide variety of new and exciting shopping and dining options. Cambridge Square offers an easy commute to Washington, D.C. via Bethesda Metro Station. Featuring spacious and affordable one, two, three and four bedroom apartment homes to rent. Cambridge Square floorplans offer large walk in closets and hardwood flooring.

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Klingle Apartments

1 Bedroom  $1730

2755 Macomb St. NW
Washington, DC 20008

Right on the corner of Connecticut Avenue and Macomb Avenue, you will find the Klingle. This beautifully landscaped and maintained property couldn’t be more convenient. Located at the corner of Connecticut Avenue and Macomb Street, The Klingle is in easy walking distance to Cleveland Park’s most popular shops and restaurants, not to mention the Cleveland Park Metro Station, National Zoo, and locally-famous Uptown Theater.

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Parkside Apartments

1 Bedroom  $1695

1702 Summit Place NW
Washington, DC 20009

Well designed apartments for rent that use every inch of space thoughtfully. Hardwood floors that shine when natural light pours through the windows and bounce off of them. Arched doorway details add architectural interest and the kitchens have gas stoves for cooking gourmet meals. Best of all, these affordable apartments are just blocks from both Adams Morgan and Columbia Heights; our Walk Score of 91 proves it. This is the life.

Rent-control-apartments-dc-Calverton

1 Bedroom – $1775

1673 Columbia Road, NW
Washington, DC 20009

Simple elegance. The best things in life don’t have to be bragged about. They can be simply appreciated each time you arrive home. The Calverton Apartments are in in the heart of the Adams Morgan neighborhood of Washington, DC. An array of restaurants and grocery options are within minutes of your apartment. Inside, you’ll find updated kitchens with energy efficient appliances, grand living rooms and large windows for natural light to pour in. Whether you choose to rent a studio, one-bedroom or two-bedroom apartment, you will be treated to beautiful hardwood floors and ample closet space. This is thoughtful living.

Rent-control-apartments-DC-Penn-View

Penn View Apartments

1 Bedroom  $1165

2515 R Street, SE 
Washington, DC 20020

Design cannot be defined by one component but rather the artful intersection of style and function. Located just minutes away from Capitol Hill, Penn View apartments offer affordable efficiencies, one, and two-bedroom apartment homes for rent. Penn View’s luxurious kitchens and functional floor plans are just a few of the features you’ll find at this community. Quality is always on trend.

Apartments-all-utilities-included-dc-Wakefield-Hall

Wakefield Hall

1 Bedroom  $1795

2101 New Hampshire Ave NW
Washington, DC 20009

Wakefield Hall’s decorative facade gives way to just as beautiful apartments. Hardwood floors, updated kitchens, and walk-in closets create a charming and comfortable living space. Wakefield Hall is located near U St./Cardozo Metro Station, giving you access to all DC has to offer via the yellow and green lines. You can step out your front door and experience the cultural vibes within your neighborhood.

All-Utilities-Included-3801-connecticut-avenue

3801 Connecticut Avenue

Studio  $1750

3801 Connecticut Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20008

3801 Connecticut Avenue offers incredibly spacious studio and one bedroom apartments on one of D.C.’s liveliest boulevards. Residents enjoy the convenience of restaurants, unique shops, and a plethora of activities and site seeing opportunities just walking distance from their homes. You’ll fall in love with the new in-unit renovations at this community, whether it is with the designer plank floors, detailed back-splashes or stainless steel appliances. With a metro stop a few blocks away, the options are limitless in these beautiful apartments!

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Also published on Medium.

Source: blog.apartminty.com

Top 5 Rent Control Apartments Available to Rent Today

Posted on by Miriam Martinez
top-5-rent-control-apartments-in-dc

Our Top Five Picks for Rent Control Apartments in D.C.

What is a ‘rent-controlled apartment’?

Rent control apartments can be rented by anyone.

Low and predictable rent increases are what make rent control apartments so desirable.

Why are they so low?

The annual increases in your rent may not exceed an allowable increase set by the city government. The annual adjustment is based on the Consumer Price Index {CPI} plus somewhere between 2%-10% of your rent. The combination of CPI + the  % increase can never exceed 10% total.  The law also sets that the landlord may only increase your rent once in any 12-month period. So, if in 2016 your rent was $1000 upon your anniversary/lease renewal, your rent could have a maximum increase of $25. Because the CPI was .5% and the city allowed an additional 2% increase.

We wrote a whole blog about it if you want to Read more…

Or if you want, just check out the rent control buildings below and score yourself some new digs!

One of the worst things about renting is the inevitable rent increases that you get every year.  One way to combat the impact of those rent increases is to find a rent controlled apartment.  Rent control apartments have a cap on how much your rent can be increased each year.  How rent increases are calculated is a little tricky.  You can read more about it here. We searched the Washington, DC apartment inventory and compiled a list of the top five rent controlled apartments you can rent today.

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MORE INFO

Frontenac
Studio $1495

4550 Connecticut Ave NW
Washington, DC 20008

The Frontenac is nestled in the heart of elegant upper-Northwest. The Frontenac boasts spacious apartments with updated kitchens and bathrooms. Its classic architectural style, evident in our grand lobby’s high ceiling and in our apartment units’, arched doorways and traditional wainscoting, attracts tours of local art history students.You can meet your neighbors or take advantage of WiFi on the Frontenac’s peaceful roof deck or in its spacious laundry room. Take a stroll to the Van Ness metro station, Giant, Whole Foods, pharmacies, dry cleaners, restaurants, shopping, and great schools for students of all ages. Our neighborhood is full of hidden gems..

Apartments-rent-control-dc-Wakefield-Hall
MORE INFO

Wakefield Hall
1 BR  $1895

2101 New Hampshire Ave NW
Washington, DC 20009

Wakefield Hall’s decorative facade gives way to just as beautiful apartments. Hardwood floors, updated kitchens, and walk-in closets create a charming and comfortable living space. Wakefield Hall is located near U St./Cardozo Metro Station, giving you access to all DC has to offer via the yellow and green lines. You can step out your front door and experience the cultural vibes within your neighborhood.

Rent-control-apartments-dc-Calverton
MORE INFO

The Calverton   LEASED
Studio  $1485

1673 Columbia Road, NW
Washington, DC 20009

Simple elegance. The best things in life don’t have to be bragged about. They can be simply appreciated each time you arrive home. The Calverton Apartments are in in the heart of the Adams Morgan neighborhood of Washington, DC. An array of restaurants and grocery options are within minutes of your apartment. Inside, you’ll find updated kitchens with energy efficient appliances, grand living rooms and large windows for natural light to pour in. Whether you choose to rent a studio, one-bedroom or two-bedroom apartment, you will be treated to beautiful hardwood floors and ample closet space. This is thoughtful living.

Rent-control-apartments-dc-Calverton
MORE INFO

Dupont Apartments
1 BR  $1775

1717 20th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20009

Choosing this apartment community is all about choosing the location.  The building is located in one of the most desired locations in all of DC. DuPont Circle provides easy access to public transportation, a variety of restaurant and entertainment options, and a quick commute to many of DC’s finest attractions.  Living at the Dupont Apartments will give you the lifestyle you want, and the location you need. The apartments feature hardwood floors, high ceilings, and spacious floorplans in a controlled access building.

Rent-control-apartments-dc-Klingle
MORE INFO

Klingle Apartments
1 BR  $1675

2755 Macomb Street, NW
Washington, DC 20008

Right on the corner of Connecticut Avenue and Macomb Avenue, you will find The Klingle, a Cleveland Park apartment building with one-bedroom apartments for rent. The spacious layouts, beautiful hardwood floors, energy efficient appliances, and bright and open atmosphere of the apartments aren’t all that you will love. The Klingle community has on-site maintenance and management teams available to assist its residents, on-site laundry facilities, and it is conveniently located one block away from the Cleveland Park Metro. Comfort and convenience are a given when you live at The Klingle. Make it your home today!WC Smith embraces the belief that great customer service is our best amenity. Living at The Klingle means experiencing a higher level of service. Our service team is available 24 hours a day, and you can access your resident account online at any time; day or night. Discover true convenient living in the city, at The Klingle located in the Cleveland Park neighborhood.

Looking for something different?
Search available apartments in the Washington, DC area now.

Read Top 5 Rent Control Apartments Available to Rent Today on Apartminty.

Source: blog.apartminty.com

DC Studio Apartments Offering One or Two Months Free

Posted on by Miriam Martinez
studio-apartments-offering-two-months-free

If you are in the market for a new apartment, this is the absolute best time to secure a new place. Apartments and neighborhoods where you never were able to get concessions are now giving away up to two months free. This is of course due to the fact that while many people were able to work from home, they took that opportunity to leave their Washington, D.C. apartments and move out to the suburbs or home with mom and dad or become digital nomads. That left many apartment buildings with vacancies to fill and that’s where your luck begins!

Last month we highlighted apartments with move-in specials. This week, we are highlighting DC Studio Apartments offering two months free. You’ll see there is a wide range of offerings from rent control apartments in Northwest DC to brand new luxury apartments in SE neighborhoods like Capitol Riverfront.

Act quickly, as soon as the summer heats up and there are more signs of movement in the District, you will see prices start to rise and rent specials dry up.

Hilltop-House-kitchen

Hilltop House

1475 Euclid Street NW Washington, DC.

844-259-7670

Studios starting at $1350

Get TWO MONTHS FREE

Hilltop House is in the Adams Morgan neighborhood in NW Washington, D.C. The building has mostly studios, but on occasion, a one or two-bedroom apartment comes available. The building is within walking distance of Safeway and Harris Teeter and many restaurants. All utilities are included in your rent price.

The Shawmut

2200 19th Street NW, Washington DC

844-300-2186

Studios starting at $1350

Get TWO MONTHS FREE on Studios

The Shawmut is a pet-friendly community in the Adams-Morgan | Kalorama Neighborhod. The building is in walking distance of many restaurants, grocery stores, and shops.

Apartments-with-one-month-free-2800-woodley

2800 Woodley

2800 Woodley NW, Washington DC

833-623-4036

Get One and a Half Months Free

Studios starting at $1495

2800 Woodley is a gorgeous building set back in a tree-lined residential neighborhood just four blocks from the Woodley Park Metro. The apartments have shining parquet floors, energy efficient appliances, and all utilities are included with your rent.

apartments-with-two-months-free-brunswick-house

Brunswick House

1414 17th Street NW, Washington DC

844-287-1930

Get Two Months Free on Studios

Studios starting at $1395

Brunswick House is conveniently located near the Dupont Circle Metro. It is also within a few blocks of Whole Foods Market and a number of restaurants. Brunswick House Apartments have hardwood floors and all utilities are included with the rent.

apartments-with one-month-free-DC-Meridian-Park-Apartments

Meridian Park

2445 15th Street NW, Washington DC

833-233-2513

Get Two Months Free on Studios

Studios starting at $1390

Meridian Park Apartments have a fantastic location between Adams Morgan and Columbia Heights. The apartment community is located right next to Meridian Park, walking distance to multiple metro stops and just blocks from two grocery stores.

Avec-on-H-1-Bedroom-AV1adBMx-Kitchen(1)

Avec on H

901 H Street NE, Washington DC

833-715-2382

Get Two Months Free on Studios

Studios starting at $1541

Avec on H is a brand new apartment community on H Street. The building has a two-block long rooftop with a pool, grilling areas, community garden, dog park and outdoor living rooms. The community also has a fitness center and clubroom. Right now they are offering two months free on studio apartments.

That’s our round-up of studio apartments in DC offering up to two months free. Want to see more options? Do a free search at apartminty.com and sign up for the mailing list to get notified as more specials come available!

Read DC Studio Apartments Offering One or Two Months Free on Apartminty.

Source: blog.apartminty.com

How to Buy a Used Car, Step By Step

Posted on by Miriam Martinez

You’ll have to purchase the report if you’re buying from a private seller, so wait until you’re seriously interested in a particular vehicle. If you’re buying from a dealership, the salesperson should provide a copy of the vehicle history report for free.
The older a car is, the cheaper it’ll be — but the more it’s likely to have issues requiring repair. Everyone has a different comfort level when it comes to what they’re willing to handle. A general rule of thumb is that a car is driven about 12,000 miles per year. A higher average could mean the car has more wear and tear.
“Some general things you can do on your own without being super knowledgeable about cars is [to] turn off the radio [and] listen for any strange noises,” Montoya said. “See if the steering wheel stays straight when you drive down the road. Does it pull to one side? Look at the tires to see how old they are.”

Why Buying a Used Car Is a Smart Money Move

“In the first year of ownership, depreciation can continue, and that same car could be worth up to 20% less than its original sale price,” he said.
Knowing the ins and outs of how to buy a used car will make the whole process less stressful and, most importantly, save you money.
Sharifi said to watch out for discrepancies with the odometer reading and if there’s a branded title, which indicates that the car has been significantly compromised in some way.
Be wary of independent car lots that boast they can make you a deal regardless of your credit or circumstance.
Sometimes just looking at a car will give you some idea of its history. Rust, worn out pedals and a side panel painted in a different color are red flags.
Montoya said used car buyers must strike a balance between the age of the car, the amount of miles and what price they’re willing to pay.
When you’re buying from a private party, you may be able to get more accurate information about how they’ve driven and maintained the vehicle and what particular issues it might have, said Ron Montoya, senior consumer advice editor at Edmunds.

The Best Time to Buy a Used Car

RobertCorse/Getty Images

“The end of the month (or the end of a quarter) can also be a good time to strike a deal, since dealerships may need to hit monthly or quarterly sales goals,” he said.
“You want to make sure there’s enough room for you,” Montoya said. “Take a look at the cargo area. Take a look at how easy it is to see out of the vehicle. Test out the entertainment system.”
Always, always, always take a car for a spin before buying it. If you can bring a mechanic with you, even better.
So that covers the why. Now let’s get into how to buy a used car.
You can also compare similar vehicles on the market to get an estimate of a car’s value, but keep in mind, no two used vehicles will be the same due to how they were driven and maintained. Use all this information when you sit down to negotiate — and don’t be afraid to walk away if you don’t think you’re getting a fair price.
New cars are sleek, shiny, full of impressive tech and smell amazing — mmm, new car smell. But they also come with price tags that can take your breath away — and not in a good way.
Knowing when and where to buy a used car is just half the battle. Figuring out how to vet a used car can be tough, especially if you have little to no car knowledge.
“Typically they’ll try to get you in with a low price, but you may not be getting the best quality car,” he said. “The other thing is that if you get your financing through those types of dealers, they typically charge you a much higher interest rate.”
Montoya said plans sold by auto manufacturers or reputable dealerships are better options than those sold by third-party companies. Make sure you understand exactly what your plan covers.

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Where to Shop for a Used Car — and Where to Avoid

For any dealer you visit, do some due diligence and check customer reviews online. If you know others who’ve recently purchased a car, ask for recommendations.
Of course, when you need a car might not align with a particular sale or time of month. Shopping for a vehicle before you’re in critical need of one will allow you time to search for the best deal rather than having to settle for something quick.
Outside of dealerships, look for cars online at trusted sites like Autotrader, Kelley Blue Book, Carfax or Edmunds — or buy from a private seller.
If you’re in the market for a set of wheels that’s more affordable, steer your sights over to the used car lot to save a little money. Or even a lot of money.

Pro Tip
If cost is your primary concern, a private seller is likely to offer a lower price. A dealer folds overhead, repairs and marketing into its price.

According to Kelley Blue Book, the average price of a new car in November 2020 was more than ,000. Yowser.
Unlike new car releases, used cars come on the market throughout the year. It all depends on when their previous owners end their leases, put them up for sale or decide to trade in their vehicles.
This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
When you’re budgeting for a car purchase, make sure you’re factoring in all the associated costs, like sales tax, insurance and getting the car registered.
DeLorenzo recommends pre-qualifying for a loan at a bank or credit union before visiting a dealership. You can compare the offer with the dealer’s financing terms for better negotiating leverage.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

GreenPimp/Getty Images

However, there are certain times when you’re more likely to score a better deal.
If you’ve ever heard someone refer to a car as a depreciating asset, it’s true. The longer you have a car, the less it’s worth. The first year of owning a new vehicle is when depreciation really packs a punch.

1. Find a Vehicle That Fits Your Needs

Think of the big sales that fall around holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day.
But don’t just assume a car’s history. Getting the car’s history report, such as through Carfax, is a crucial step when buying a used car.

2. Determine How ‘Used’ You’re Willing to Go

It’s best to avoid shopping for a car on the weekend when there’s an influx of customers and sales staff is spread thin, Sharifi said. You’ll get more attention from the sales team by visiting on off hours, specifically on weekdays.
The end of a model year — around September or October — is another good time to shop, DeLorenzo noted, as salespeople are looking to make deals to clear out their used vehicle stock to make room for new inventory.
“[Dealerships] will have more used vehicle inventory as a result of those types of promotions,” he said.

Pro Tip
Source: thepennyhoarder.com

3. Make Sure The Price is Right

Don’t just look at the tires’ tread. Each tire should include a four-digit number marking the month and year it was manufactured. Tires older than six years can be dried out and need replacing.
Just because you’re buying a car at a lower price point doesn’t mean you’ll be stuck with a clunker that was manufactured decades ago. Cars that are just two or three years old often hit dealership lots when their previous owners reach the end of their lease.
DeLorenzo recommends shopping at franchised car dealerships that have certified pre-owned cars — used vehicles that have been thoroughly inspected and typically come with some type of warranty coverage. Non-certified cars aren’t bad — and they’ll typically cost less — but they’re more likely to have higher mileage and more maintenance needs.

4. Check the History of the Car

“Severe accidents and instances where a car has been declared a total loss should signal the buyer to use caution,” he said. “That said, a small fender bender shouldn’t always mean that a buyer should walk away from a great deal.”
For any used car purchase, but especially if you’re buying from a private seller, have your mechanic inspect the vehicle before committing to buy.
Those vehicles often have low mileage and are in great condition, having had only one previous owner. Sometimes they even still retain a hint of that new car smell.
Before you accept a sales price, research the value of the car to make sure you’re not overpaying. Carfax, Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds all have price appraisal tools online.
Jim Sharifi, formerly a content editor at Carfax, said research shows a new vehicle can lose as much as 10% of its value within the first month.

5. Go for a Test Drive

Nicole Dow is a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder. Former staff writer Carson Kohler contributed to this post.
Where you shop for a used car matters so you can avoid purchasing a lemon.

Pro Tip
However, you also need to be OK with buying the vehicle as-is and securing your own financing. And be sure the owner has clear title to the car — in other words, don’t let anyone sell you a car they don’t legitimately own.

Matt DeLorenzo, senior managing editor for Kelley Blue Book, said when dealerships host big sales events for new models that can also benefit used car shoppers.
When you buy a used car, the original owner has already taken that initial hit on depreciation and the price you pay accounts for that, so you don’t have to shell out as much cash.
It’s easy to focus on the numbers — age of the car, mileage and cost — but you also want to make sure you’re buying a car that’ll fit your needs for however long you expect to have it. If you have a growing family, you might want to rethink that two-door coupe or compact vehicle.
These tips will give you some guidance to make a good choice.
Buying an extended warranty or service plan can give you peace of mind that certain repairs or maintenance jobs will be covered.