Are you considering buying a new or used vehicle? Financing through Sunward is easier than you may think. Here are four steps to help make buying your next vehicle go as smoothly as possible:
1. GET PRE-APPROVED
Getting pre-approved for an auto loan before you start shopping gives you the advantage of knowing how much you can afford on a vehicle before you head to the dealership. If you apply online, it’s possible to get approved in as little as 15 minutes, and our pre-approvals from Sunward are valid for 45 days. So even if the vehicle you are interested in doesn’t work out, you can keep looking without having to re-apply.
2. FIND YOUR VEHICLE
You can shop for your vehicle at a dealership, at CU Auto Sales in Albuquerque, or with a private seller and still secure financing with Sunward. If you find the vehicle you want at a dealership, apply online at slfcu.org/AutoLoans or let them know you are an Sunward member and would like us to finance it. If you plan to purchase from a private party, Sunward can help you save time by filing the title, facilitating the payment of any applicable taxes, and, in some cases, arranging for emissions testing and collection of the emissions certificate. Ask a representative for details.
3. AGREE ON A PURCHASE PRICE
Loan pre-approval from Sunward can have a positive impact on price negotiations since it shows sellers you’re a serious buyer. Let sellers know you’re pre-approved with Sunward.
4. FINALIZE THE SALE
Once you’re ready to sign on the dotted line, you have options for completing the necessary paperwork. Dealers can complete your financing with Sunward right at the dealership. If you are buying from a private party, you can meet the seller at any Sunward branch to complete the transaction with a Financial Services Consultant. For a list of needed documents, visit slfcu.org/AutoPurchaseMaterials. Once the loan is complete, we will work with you to sign the loan agreement and provide a check directly to the seller.
Sunward offers a variety of resources to help you navigate the vehicle buying process, including calculators, advice, and information on financing options. Visit slfcu.org/AutoBuying to learn more.
