Trade
Reader favoriteHow to Get the Best Trade‑In Value (Step‑by‑Step)
Photos, VIN, options, and reconditioning notes—follow this to raise your number.
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By Marcus King • 6 min read
FMYCAR Author
Marcus King
Automotive educator focused on smarter trade‑ins and payment clarity. Marcus helps shoppers set a plan, understand value, and move forward without pressure.
“Marcus’s coach‑style cadence turns hesitant shoppers into confident buyers—without pressure.”
Why readers choose Marcus
Practical, respectful, and crystal‑clear—no pressure, just guidance.
Clarity on the numbers
Explains APR, out‑the‑door price, and trade value in plain English so you don’t overpay.
Step‑by‑step planning
Gives you a simple plan you can follow at the store—or from your couch.
Real‑world tactics
Small moves that raise your trade offer and lower your payment, without haggling.
Articles by Marcus
Consumer‑friendly guides to help you compare options and feel confident at every step.
Trade
How Dealerships Appraise Trade‑Ins (What They Look At)
Market comps, condition grading, and timing—so you know how the value is set.
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By Marcus King • 5 min read
Finance
Reader favoriteHow to Get Pre‑Approved for a Car Loan
What lenders look for, docs to bring, and tips to improve your approval odds.
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By Marcus King • 5 min read
Sell
What Affects Your Car Offer? (Condition, Market, Timing)
How cleanliness, options, mileage, and demand move your price.
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By Marcus King • 5 min read
Legal
Car Purchase Fees Explained (Out‑the‑Door Price)
Doc fee, title, registration, taxes—how OTD pricing is built.
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By Marcus King • 5 min read
Finance
What Is a Good APR for a Car Loan?
Average APRs by credit tier and how to compare offers the right way.
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By Marcus King • 4 min read
Tools
Car Payment Calculator: How to Estimate Your Payment
MSRP vs out‑the‑door, taxes, fees, APR, and term—estimate the right way.
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By Marcus King • 4 min read
Buy
Best Time to Buy a Car (Month, Day & Timing)
End‑of‑month? Holiday? Model‑year changeover? Here’s when deals usually peak.
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By Marcus King • 5 min read
Buy
New vs Certified Pre‑Owned vs Used — Which Should You Buy?
Warranty, cost, and value retention—plain‑English comparisons to choose confidently.
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By Marcus King • 7 min read