When it’s time to purchase a new car, it’s tempting to simply go with the vehicle that looks the coolest or has the lowest price tag. You also want to step back to consider where you buy your car. Purchasing your next car closer to home offers many underrated benefits. Doing business with your local car dealer provides perks you just can’t get from major national chains or random internet sellers.

Here are the top five reasons to consider buying your next vehicle from your local dealer.

1. Convenience and Test Drives

One of the best reasons to buy from your local car dealer is convenience. With a dealership right in your neighborhood, it’s easy to swing by and browse the selection or talk to the sales team. Local dealers also simplify test drives: you can easily spin around familiar roads on your lunch break or weekend. Buying from an out-of-town dealer would require traveling for a short test drive on roads you don’t usually take.

2. Service and Maintenance

Purchasing from a local car dealer also ensures you have a go-to place for service and maintenance. Dealerships provide manufacturer-recommended upkeep to keep your car warranty intact. They use factory parts and technicians trained specifically for your vehicle make and model. Having an established relationship with your local dealer’s service department means you already know where to bring your car when it’s time for an oil change, new tires, recalls, and other work.

3. Negotiating and Pricing

There are opportunities to negotiate pricing when buying from a local car dealer. Out-of-town dealers less familiar with your area may not be as motivated to earn your business. Local dealerships want to make sales and build their reputation in the community. Having a hometown dealer with room to negotiate can help you save money.

4. Personal Relationships

Getting to know your local car dealer’s sales staff and management builds a personal relationship. You want to feel comfortable asking questions and trusting the person helping you buy. Building rapport with your salesperson at a local dealership means you’ll have an advocate who understands precisely what you’re looking for, which leads to a smoother purchase experience.

5. Supporting Local Business

Purchasing from local car dealers helps boost the economy right in your community. Your sales taxes go directly to your city and county to support infrastructure and services. Local dealerships also employ residents of your town. When these businesses thrive, it strengthens the entire community. So you can feel good knowing your business helps neighbors and contributes to the place you call home.

Find Your Next Car at a Local Dealer

Buying your next car from a dealer in your neighborhood has many advantages. From convenience to personal service, you’ll be glad you shopped locally. Building a relationship with a hometown dealership pays off now and down the road – so don’t overlook the benefits of buying local when it’s time for your next vehicle.