One thing I've learned since becoming a homeowner is that sometimes life doesn't always play along with even the best laid of plans... Case in point: our vehicle situation. We purchased a "cash car" back in the spring for Andy to commute to work in (Farmington to Rogers adds up fast in mileage and gas) to keep the miles off the Cobalt and keep me out of the Ranger. I am not a big fan of the truck due to some aftermarket "improvements" and especially not since the great spider incident last spring (long story short I was attacked and there is still bait board glue on the windshield. If you ever need a good laugh just ask me about that one.), hence the purchase of the Honda.
The plan was to drive the Honda into the ground and save money to buy a decent used SUV in a few years. The miles quickly added up on an already high mileage vehicle and it seemed like we were constantly asking my dad for help with repairs. Even after a few expensive and time consuming repairs it was still having issues, so we stuck a for sale sign on it. It is now one of the neighbor's problems.
At first we decided to fix the truck and drive it, then after assessing the mechanical issues with it we agreed to look for another 4x4 vehicle with low mileage, keeping it in a budget of under $10,000, and then sell the truck as well. At first it seemed impossible, and even 100,000 mile plus vehicles were out of our price range, but we lucked out; we are purchasing a 70,000 mile 4x4 vehicle for about $2,000 less than it is actually worth, and I really do look forward to driving it. It is in excellent condition and has few immediate needs. The few minor/cosmetic issues are being taken care of by the seller. And, it's red!
So, while Dave Ramsey might not approve of us financing another vehicle right after paying one off (and you know how I love all things Dave Ramsey), we are just thankful we found something to fit our needs and our budget on such short notice... even if it is two years before we intended to buy. On the upside, it is really going to improve the looks of my driveway!
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