Many times I’ve had a customer ask me about the decision of what options to pay for on their next vehicle, and which ones to bypass. Choosing the right options can make your vehicle more enjoyable for you, but it can also be more attractive for the next owner. Having said that, keep in mind that there are options that lose nearly all their value while others retain as much as half their worth after 3 years. Usually the three options that are the most attractive are a power sunroof, leather interior and a c.d. player. Oddly enough, safety equipment usually scores lower on the list than it probably should. A rule of thumb in the car industry is that visible options hold their values well, whereas “invisible” options sometimes aren’t even considered. For example, anti-lock brakes are wonderful, yet they do not usually add to the price of a used vehicle, because of their invisibility.

Often you will see options bundled up as a “package” which usually saves the buyer money by offering more equipment at a discounted price for that package. Options in packages also make sense, as they are part of a certain type of package – i.e. performance packages or comfort and luxury groups. When you’re ready to flip your vehicle, these packages will most likely yield a decent return.

Here are a few of the more sought-after options and packages that could add to your resale value:

•    Rear DVD Entertainment Systems
•    Power Sunroofs or Moon roofs
•    Leather Interior
•    Upgraded Engines
•    Navigation Systems
•    Performance Packages
•    Sport Packages

Of course, options are a personal thing, as much as choosing colours and makes and models. The options have to make sense for you as well as to your wallet. A base-priced vehicle can jump a few dollars when you start adding all the creature comfort goodies. Just think about options like this: don’t buy them according to what you can live with; buy them according to what you can’t live without. Hopefully when you’re ready for a vehicle change, the new owner can’t see themselves without the options you’ve chosen as well.

Happy shopping!
Karen J. Williams is a Sales and Leasing Consultant with Okanagan Chrysler Jeep Dodge. You can reach her at (250) 861-1040 or email at karenw@okanagandodge.com

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