INTRODUCTION    OBJECTIVES    START AT YOUR CREDIT UNION  •    RESEARCH DEALER COSTS    VISIT THREE DEALERS    NEGOTIATE    SEAL THE DEAL    DO'S & DON'TS   What can you afford? What will a loan cost you? Generally, all your monthly payments (rent or mortgage, auto, credit cards, student loans, and so on) should equal less than 40% of your gross (before taxes) income. It's worth a call to the credit union to find out what you can afford and to get preapproval on a loan.

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