Freedom First Advice Center

June 15, 2023

5 Things that Affect the Cost of a Used Car

Choosing to purchase a used vehicle today is an excellent financial move. Not only will you benefit from the lower price tag, but most dealerships offer certified preowned vehicle programs. That means the car you buy will undergo rigorous testing and often comes backed by a manufacturer or dealership warranty.

Buying a reliable car at an affordable price is a win-win for you and your wallet. But did you know other factors can affect the total cost of your used car?

Let’s explore the additional costs of preowned vehicles and how you can reduce how much you pay.

June 01, 2023

How to Purchase Your First Car

Buying your first car is both exciting and a bit overwhelming. It’s a big decision that will impact your finances for the next several years. As a first-time buyer, you want to know you’re making the right choice and not being taken advantage of by the dealership.

If you have a parent or friend to help in the process, that’s great. If you’re going it alone, use the following guide to become familiar with the steps necessary for a fun and positive car-buying experience.

September 06, 2022

Reliable Transportation and Furthering Education

Alicia made a resolution not to accumulate a lot of debt, but when a lack of credit history meant she couldn’t obtain a traditional auto loan, she realized that the Responsible Rides® program could be the solution for her. Alicia had very specific needs for her vehicle – she not only wanted to make sure her father and sister would feel comfortable riding in it, but she also needed to make sure it had enough space to store her sister’s walker and be easily accessible.

November 18, 2021

Double Check Your Loans Before the End of the Year

With the holidays quickly approaching, your mind is probably focused on gift lists, decorations, travel plans, and family events. But the end of the year is also the perfect time to review your loans.

While loans typically make up members’ largest monthly expenses — from mortgages and car loans to student loans and credit cards — they also provide some of the most significant saving opportunities. Taking time to review your existing loans and looking for opportunities to save could put you in a much better financial position as a new year rolls around.

May 19, 2021

Why You Should Finance Your Next Car Loan at a Credit Union

When shopping for a new set of wheels, your first stop should be at a credit union, like Freedom First. Though many people start their process on the dealer’s lot, you’ll enjoy a lower rate, a simpler loan application and other benefits by choosing to finance your car with Freedom First.

This is why people are increasingly choosing to finance their cars directly through credit unions. In fact, auto loans comprise more than a third of all the active loans across the 5,600 credit unions in the U.S.

Let’s take a look at the differences in the auto loan process at a car dealership versus Freedom First.

May 17, 2021

It’s Quick & Easy to Refinance Your Auto Loan

Is your car payment consistently throwing off your budget? Do you long for an interest rate that doesn’t feel like you’re throwing away money each month? If so, refinancing your auto loan may be the perfect solution. It’s a quick and easy process that could instantly put more money back in your pocket.

Let’s review what auto refinancing is and how to decide if it’s right for you.

March 26, 2021

The Truth About 0% Auto Loans

Buying a new car is exciting. All the way up until talking price with the dealer. This is where confusion sets in, and excitement quickly turns into frustration. You think you’re getting a good deal, but are you?

One of the most misleading promotions you find at dealerships is the 0% APR offer. Paying no interest sounds great. You could save a bundle of money. So how can it not be the best decision? Let’s have a look comparing the 0% APR offer vs. a Cash Back Offer.