Come Prepared And You Could Drive Home In The Vehicle Of Your Dreams

With all those shiny, new vehicles on display, the International Auto Show ‘98 is the best place in town to come and dream.

But it’s an even better place to come and buy.

In the parlance of the industry, the Spokane auto show is known as a “selling” show, and local dealers will be on hand with pencils sharpened and ready to make deals.

And, with the post-Christmas doldrums behind them, you can be sure they’ll be dealing.

“I know the people in our dealerships are excited,” said Chud Wendle, president of Wendle Ford, and president of the Spokane New Car Dealers Association.

“We’re counting on it to jump-start our spring selling season.”

Continuing a trend that began last year, manufacturers have worked overtime to find ways to hold the line on prices, even while adding content to their new models.

On many models, features such as air conditioning and anti-lock brakes which were once options, have now become standard equipment - at no extra cost.

Fact is, the auto show may present you with your best opportunity this year to buy a new vehicle.

All the dealerships can offer you financing packages, and a number of financial institutions will be on hand to make your life easier with instant financing.

And if you don’t want to buy, a short-term lease might be the answer: A lease can cut your monthly payment by as much as one-third ove what you would pay to buy.

Plus, you enjoy the security of always driving a car that’s under warranty.

So, why not make this the year that you drive home in a new rig from the auto show? It’s easy if you come prepared. Here’s what you will need to bring you in order to leave the show a proud, new owner:

Verification of employment: A recent pay stub or a W2 will do. If you are self-employed, bring along tax returns for the past two years.

Personal financial information: Bring a record of everything you presently own. Lenders need to know your current credit load before they can determine the amount you can borrow. They will run a credit check on the spot, so any debts you forget to list, or that you under-report, will show up.

Title or lien of any trade-in: If you have a vehicle which you would like to trade in, bring either your title or lien-hilder information. Before the show, call the lien-holder (bank or other financial institution) to determine your pay-off amount.