How to get the most vehicle for the least down payment? That seems to be the burning question of all prospective customers. The most common dollar amount that the BHPH lot encounters is $500. This is an entry level down payment amount on most lots. What kind of vehicle can you expect? Let’s be honest, if you are on a BHPH lot looking for a vehicle, it’s important to be realistic with your expectations. Do not expect a late model luxury ride with a $500 down payment. You should look to rebuild your financial well being by opting out for a basic transportation vehicle. The first rule to abide by after any financial meltdown is the affordability of repayment. Don’t make wild repayment promises that will be difficult to keep. That is a recipe for repossession, and that is what you want to avoid at all costs. Oftentimes, BHPH dealers are the last stop for the financially challenged car buyer.

Your main concern in your search should be vehicle reliability and road-worthiness. Make sure the vehicle is mechanically sound and is safety checked. Look into extended warranty coverage from the dealer. After all, the vehicle is no good to you if it isn’t running. Many times warranty coverage cost can be included in the repayment schedule. Another advantage to dealer provided extended warranty coverage is that it puts the burden of keeping you on the road with the company that sold you the vehicle. He is the one who keeps your car going so you can get to work to earn the money it takes for you to repay him.

If you become a reliable customer by keeping to your repayment schedule, then you can almost write your own ticket with your dealer. You become quite valuable to him and he will want to keep you from going elsewhere. Therefore, you can ask for an upgrade and he may be quite amenable to your request. Quality customers who have a positive repayment history are what BHPH dealers covet. Those types of customers make them profitable. Your goal with the $500 down payment is to work toward that end.

This article was written by Brian McCormick of Providence, Rhode Island. Brian is a BHPH expert and has been involved in the used car and BHPH industry for over 40 years. He enjoys his family and his favorite sports team, The Boston Red Sox. He Graduated from the University of Rhode Island in 1970. Follow him on Google+