What To Bring To The Car Auction Lot

You're crunched for time, you're pressed for cash, and you don't have a lot of either to spend. Why would you waste them wandering around a car lot? If you want to make your stop at NJ State Auto Auction as efficient as possible, be sure to bring along a few key items that could come in handy. Even if you start registration and bidding online, having certain information might speed up the entire process. 

Here are five of the must-have items you should bring with you to an auction lot. 

1. Driver's license 
It sounds simple, but it's important: Make sure you bring your driver's license. Whether you need it to verify your identity for final paperwork or take a test drive, this one card could make a big difference. Place your auto insurance card with it so you can be sure you drive off the lot without a problem. 

2. Proof of address  
Most facilities will require you to show some kind of proof of address in addition to a driver's license. Recent bills with your name on them or a copy of your current lease may suffice. This can be difficult, so don't be afraid to get creative with your personal documents. 

3. Financial information 
If you plan on using auto financing, you're going to need to provide some personal financial information. While this is part of the process you can begin online before even heading to the auction lot, it's smart to bring some of the important documentation along. The most basic details involve your credit cards and bank accounts, but be sure to add any other paperwork you think is pertinent. 

4. Smartphone 
We've all got the power to surf the Internet with just the touch of a button – and you should take full advantage of that when shopping for used cars. Keep your device close by in the event something comes up you want to doubled check, or you simply want to stay ahead of the process by remembering certain details about prospective used cars. It also allows you to check out comparable prices on nearby models so you can negotiate the best price. 

5. Pen and paper 
When all else fails, writing down figures and notes can be a huge advantage in the car buying process. Have a pen and paper handy. It's typically faster than trying to type into an electronic device, and it's more versatile as well. 

Make Sure Used Cars Are Ready To Ride

When you buy a used car, you're putting your trust in a lot of other people. It starts with the manufacturer of the vehicle and extends all the way to the seller handing you the keys. Unfortunately, not all of these individuals have your best interests at heart. Previous owners of the car, for instance, may have ignored recall notices and simply passed along the automobile – leaving you to deal with the later problems. 

Cars aren't being fixed
Carfax analyzed state registration data, ultimately finding that as much as one-fifth of the more than 230 million cars on the road have problems that were never fixed, despite recalls. That means about 46 million vehicles are cruising the open road with some type of faulty part. 

The organization also found that the state of New York has its fair share of unfixed recalls. According to the Carfax data, the Empire State comes in at No. 4 with more than 2.1 million unfixed cars on the road. Pennsylvania followed close behind at No. 5 with 1.9 million faulty vehicles. 

Put safety first
Drivers shouldn't leave their safety up to chance. Any car could have a problem in its history, and even what started as a minor issue could have grown to something big over time. It impacts more than the driver as well, as any failure could put passengers or other motorists in harm's way. 

"It's a very major public safety problem," said Chris Basso, a used car specialist for Carfax. "When those recalled cars go unfixed, they compound over the years, and it increases the chance of those parts failing."

Buying a vehicle with a clean history is your best bet, but with so many recalls happening each year, it's not always feasible. Make sure you do your own research to see if the make and model has been recalled in the past. Once you know what to look for, you'll be in a better position to identify fixes and negotiate price. 

Find a seller you trust
If you're shopping for used cars, it's important to find a trustworthy facility to do business with. At New Jersey State Auto Auction, you can deal with sellers and financing experts who are actively working to get you the best deal. The lot also contains hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans, which means you can scope out the automobile's history and make sure its servicing is up to date. 

Auto Loan Balances Hit Record High To End 2014

It's no secret that some people need help affording a used car. Few drivers have enough cash to cover the full cost of a vehicle, so most turn to financing options such as auto loans to help them get behind the wheel. You don't have to have a sparkling credit history to get these loans, either, as more subprime borrowers are getting opportunities to do so. 

Auto loan balances continue to grow
Experian Automotive recently released its latest report, the State of the Automotive Finance Market, which detailed the loan landscape in the fourth quarter of 2014. According to the data, the total outstanding balance on all loans reached $886 billion at the end of last year. That's the highest mark ever recorded. 

Some of that growth can be attributed to an increase in subprime loans. The volume of both subprime and deep-subprime loans grew, despite the fact that the total market share for the two segments declined from the same time last year, the report found. 

"Whenever there is an uptick in the number of loans to sub-prime and deep sub-prime customers, there is the potential for a 'sky is falling' type of reaction," said Melinda Zabritski, Experian's director of automotive finance. "The reality is we are looking at a remarkably stable automotive-loan market, in part because consumers are continuing to stay on top of their payments." 

Managing loans 
Although subprime borrowers are still taking out their fair share of auto loans, the delinquency rate hasn't grown – a good sign that these drivers are paying back their debts. According to Experian, 30-day delinquencies grew only slightly to 2.62 percent from 2.61 percent, while 60-day delinquencies fell from 0.73 percent to 0.72 percent.

This stability may encourage lenders to keep offering deals to subprime buyers. It also shows that the loans are good for borrowers as well, with these individuals able to make monthly payments and stick to a repayment plan. 

Even if you don't have the best credit history, you can find opportunities to buy used cars with the help of auto financing. The financing department at NJ State Auto is ready and able to assist you in taking advantage of these deals. Its experts can get you same-day credit approval no matter what your background is, allowing you to show up, select a vehicle and drive off the lot in a timely manner. 

Shop Around For Low-Priced Used Cars

Finding the right used car can be a real challenge. Not only do you have to consider the features and performance aspects that matter most to you, but you must stick to a budget. That's no easy task – especially in the current climate. Used car prices continue to climb, putting many drivers in a tough position when it comes time to buy. 

The appeal of used cars
Why are expenses so high? It all starts with the quality of vehicles currently on the market. Lightly used models have many features that drivers want, as well as some examples of cutting-edge technology, and they offer all of these perks without major concerns about decreasing value or expensive new car payments. 

"Lightly used cars are very appealing to car shoppers since they are equipped with modern technology and have already taken their biggest depreciation hit," said Jessica Caldwell, a senior analyst for Edmunds.com.

Because these vehicles are attractive options for many, the demand is greater, and that impacts price. 

Used car prices are up 
A recent report from Edmunds.com noted that the average cost of used cars reached a record high in 2014. The average price increased 5.7 percent from 2013 to hit $16,800. Some lightly used vehicles, such as those that were only 1 year old, sold for close to $30,000. Unfortunately, these expenses are well beyond the budgets of many drivers, and motorists will have to work around the high costs to find a car they love. 

Edmunds.com also expected prices to keep climbing, at least for the immediate future. However, auto financing options are also more prevalent than ever before, so the expenses may balance out and remain palatable for all types of drivers. While these high prices may be off-putting, it only underscores the importance of shopping around for the best bargains and interest rates. 

Shop around to avoid high prices
Because the average cost of used cars is increasing, it's important for drivers to do whatever they can to control expenses. There are plenty of places to find used cars for less than $10,000 – including NJ State Auto Auction. That lot is home to hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans, and drivers can take advantage of the auction system to find great deals on quality vehicles. 

A Look At What Oscar Nominees Are Driving

The Academy Awards show is widely considered to be the most prestigious ceremony in Hollywood. Every year, the Academy recognizes the best creative minds the film industry has to offer, and those who are lucky enough to nab a nomination in the acting categories often go on to become some of the world's biggest stars. 

Regardless of who takes home the coveted statue, all nominees often become fixtures in Hollywood. That means you'll be seeing a lot more of these faces and learning many of the details about their lives – including what kind of cars they're driving. Answer Financial got a head start on this by digging up the vehicle choices for this year's nominees. 

Celebrities love luxury
If there's one thing many of this year's Oscar nominees love, it's their luxury cars. That's especially true among the individuals in the Best Actor category. Frontrunners Eddie Redmayne and Michael Keaton, who have been nominated for their roles in "The Theory of Everything" and "Birdman," respectively, are fans of Audi. Redmayne was seen in a silver Audi Q7 SUV, while Keaton – a former cab driver – now gets behind the wheel of an Audi S4.

These actors may be the favorites in their race, but they still have to beat out competitors Bradley Cooper, Steve Carell and Benedict Cumberbatch. Cooper, nominated for his performance in "American Sniper," regularly drives a Mercedes G55 Wagon, while Carell, who received a nod for his role in "Foxcatcher," was previously spotted driving a Porsche. 

Few low-key rides
Not every nominee chooses to get behind the wheel of a high-priced vehicle. Julianne Moore, who is the heavy favorite to win the prize for Best Actress thanks to her emotional performance in "Still Alice," prefers to drive a Toyota Prius. That's a far cry from some of her fellow nominees. Reese Witherspoon, who turned heads in "Wild," drives a Lexus RX, while "Two Days One Night" star Marion Cotillard owns a Jaguar XF. Rosamund Pike has similar taste. The "Gone Girl" actress has been seen in a Mercedes-Benz C-Class, according to Answer Financial. 

Even if you can't afford the same expensive vehicles the stars have, you can still make sure you're driving a quality automobile. Not sure where to begin? Head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The lot is home to hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, and one of these vehicles could be the right investment for you. 

Now Is The Time To Buy A Car

It may seem like it's never the right time to make a big purchase. Maybe you've had some expensive surprises pop up, your personal financial outlook looks brighter in the future, or experts have said to hold off. Those are all valid reasons for waiting, but sometimes you need to spend money – such as when you need to replace an older, broken-down vehicle. Luckily, the current economic landscape is one that's ideal for acquiring a used car. 

Why should you look to buy a used car now? Here are a few reasons the time may be right. 

1. Interest rates are low
WalletHub.com recently reported that interest rates for used cars are at one of the lowest points in years. While you may need to stretch out the payments, the longer loan terms could be ideal for anyone who is focused on sticking to a monthly budget. All you have to do is shop around for the right deal. 

2. Used cars for sale are high quality
Purchasing a used car doesn't mean you're buying a low-quality vehicle. In fact, many options are only a few years old, and as a result, they offer plenty of valuable features that make your driving experience better. Many boast impressive fuel efficiency as well, ensuring you can spend less at the pump throughout your time as an owner. 

3. You don't have to wait for credit 
Even if you need special financing to purchase a used car, you don't have to wait long to complete the process. In fact, locations like New Jersey State Auto Auction offer same-day credit approval for any buyer. You can even start the paperwork online before heading to the car lot to choose your ride, sign your name and start driving. 

4. There are other ways to save
Spending a little more money to get a car isn't the end of the world – especially with so many other ways to save. In addition to negotiating the right financing option, you can also take advantage of low gas prices to stick to a budget. Brushing up on some knowledge relating to maintenance and repairs can also help keep cash in your wallet, as you won't be spending as much for oil changes and other types of routine work. 

4 Tips For Building Credit

Everyone needs to start building credit at some point. The trick is to find the right time and attack the problem with the most effective strategy – and that can be tough. You don’t want to wait too long to start a credit history, but you also shouldn’t take the leap before you’re ready to make regular payments. Here are a few tips that can get your credit building started on the right foot. 

1. Stick to just one credit card
You should refrain from opening up too many credit accounts in the beginning. Start with one card and make a concentrated effort to have a sparkling record. Once you hit a year of success, you can think about adding a second card – preferably one with a better interest rate, now that your score has likely improved. 

2. Don’t reach your credit limit 
It may be tempting to put a ton of purchases on a new credit card. You might even come close to hitting the maximum limit. However, this will only hurt your score. Try to start by making smaller, more manageable purchases with the card and paying them off in full as soon as possible. As your credit limit goes up, you’ll be in a better position to close on bigger buys. 

3. Monitor your score
You have the right to check your credit score twice per year without cost. One of the major credit bureaus can provide you with the full report so you can scope out mistakes and track your progress. This also ensures you’ll spot any errors before they become a problem. 

4. Be patient when possible 
Major changes aren’t going to happen overnight. You must be dedicated to the cause and really make an effort to make smart financial decisions – otherwise, you may be doing more harm than good. Hold off on major purchases until your credit score puts you in a good position. 

If you have to buy something big, such as a used car, make sure you head to a facility that will help you out. New Jersey State Auto Auction may be just the place. The financing department can assist you in securing guaranteed credit approval and finding an auto loan that won’t put a damper on your wallet. 

3 Tips For Modern Car Shoppers

Once upon a time, buying a used car was easy. All you had to do was head to a lot, pick the vehicle and fork over the cash in exchange for the keys. While some parts of that process may remain the same today, other elements are much more complicated. That's why some buyers need a little guidance to help them make decisions. 

Here are three tips you should use to make the shopping process a breeze and to ensure you wind up behind the wheel of the right car. 

1. Online tools can help complete the process 
Many Internet-based resources can be used to make the buying process easier. For instance, the New Jersey Auto Auction website allows you to start bidding on the used cars you want without even being on the lot. You can also get started on the paperwork needed for credit approval, which can ultimately save you a lot of time. 

2. Feel free to ask questions 
Some drivers may feel they are uninformed, and as a result, they have a long list of questions they think are dumb. Don't let this fear keep you from speaking up. Edmunds.com recommended all buyers ask as many questions as they see fit – regardless if they think it makes them look like an easy target. If you're really self-conscious about it, simply conduct some research beforehand so you have a general idea of the car you're looking at or recent trends relating to auto loans. That should relieve some of the pressure and cut down on the unknowns, allowing you to focus on asking more informed, specific questions. 

3. Determine the budget yourself
There are many resources available to help you figure out your budget, so you might as well use them. Online calculators can assist you in determining how much each auto loan or interest rate will cost you in the long run. You can also look up long-term cost of ownership for certain models, which will allow you to estimate insurance and maintenance expenses. All of these contribute to the bottom line and need to be considered as part of your budget. If nothing else, this will provide you with a baseline that you can then compare to the loans a financing department offers. 

Warren Buffett Auctions Off His Used Car

Ever heard of Warren Buffett? This tremendously successful businessman has been one of the biggest industry leaders for decades. While you may not know the details about his dealings, you've probably heard about his massive net worth and numerous charitable endeavors. His latest move is no different, as Buffett is putting one of his used cars up for auction to benefit an organization in his town of Omaha, Nebraska. 

About the auction
Buffett donated his 2006 Cadillac DTS to Girls Inc. of Omaha. The charity, which was founded in part by the businessman's late wife and aims to empower young women, is selling the car to the highest bidder in an effort to raise money. 

According to The Wall Street Journal, the 8-year-old car has accumulated a little over 20,300 miles in its life. However, its vehicle history isn't totally clean: Buffett was involved in a fender-bender with the car in 2006, but he had the vehicle repaired, and it's been well-maintained ever since. It hasn't been wasting away in his garage, either – the source noted that Buffett drove the car until 2014 and then chose to donate it. 

The Cadillac's value is about $12,000, but the association with Buffett is going to raise the price tag. Also contributing to its worth is the Buffett autograph scrawled on the dashboard and the fact that the tycoon is offering to hand over the keys to the winner in person. All the car's new driver has to do is get to Nebraska and pick up the ride. Bids are being collected online from Feb. 11 to 19. 

Pick up your own vehicle
The starting bid for the Cadillac is $10,000, and the final bid will likely be much higher. While that may be too rich for your taste, there are still ways you can find used cars for sale without raising your budget or sacrificing performance on the road. 

At New Jersey State Auto, for instance, you can browse through used car deals that come in under that $10,000 mark. Not only are these vehicles great for your wallet, but they still have the safety features and high quality you're looking for. No matter what your budget is, you can find a vehicle – and financing option – that works for you. 

3 Things To Consider In A Used Car

A recent study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that a considerable number of drivers admit to breaking the rules of the road. This occurs even despite the fact that one-fifth of drivers have been involved in a serious crash and most people recognize these practices are unsafe.

Motorists who are serious about improving their driving habits do have some options when it comes to staying safe on the roads. Some help can come in the form of special features – or the lack thereof – their cars are equipped with. If that sounds appealing to you, consider these three factors that impact safety behind the wheel. 

1. Be picky about technology 
You may be tempted to spring for a used car that's loaded with advanced technology and gadget-friendly interfaces. However, these amenities can occasionally serve as a major distraction on the roads, with many drivers attempting to justify their texting and calling instead of kicking the habit. 

"Despite the growing body of research that offers evidence about the possible dangers of using hands-free technologies, most drivers don't understand the risks and continue to use these technologies," said Peter Kissinger, president of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. "The good news is that we all have the ability to make safer choices and can personally enhance our safety while driving."

2. Use cruise control 
When you're trying to look through the hundreds of used cars available at places like NJ State Auto, you're probably putting features like cruise control on the back burner. However, having this perk working can be a huge advantage if you're trying to cut back on speeding. AAA noted that about half of drivers say they go more than 10 mph above the limit, even on residential streets, and having a resource like cruise control could help prevent speeding. 

3. Trust your brakes 
According to the AAA survey, more than one-third of U.S. drivers report running through red lights. That's in spite of the fact that more than half of motorists believe this action is a serious threat to safety and a whopping 73 percent say it's completely unacceptable. For some, the reasoning behind zooming through a light could be as simple as not having enough room to stop – but with high-quality brakes, you don't have to worry. Make sure your used car has been cared for in the past and don't forget to invest in brake repair in the future.