DEDHAM, Mass. — If you're in the market for a used car, you may want to double-check your budget. The price of used cars is driving up following a winter lull.
Joe Moussali, a pre-owned group manager out of Massachusetts, says he's having a hard time keeping any inventory on the lot. "All of a sudden, in January, the market went through the roof again," he said.
Brian Moody with the Kelley Blue Book says supplies are short across the board. If you're looking for a used vehicle under $10,000 you're going to have a hard time because demand is incredibly high, but there isn't the supply to match it.
Moody said you'll have a much easier time finding what you want in the $35-40,000 range.
"If you can pay that amount for a used car, you're in great shape," he said, "but if you're looking for one below $10-15,000, like a lot of us are, there might not be as many to pick from."
With prices expected to creep even higher throughout the spring, Moody advised you need to look for a car that will fit your needs as well as your budget.
"Don't just go buying an SUV because you like SUVs," he said. "Those popular types of vehicles - minivans, full-size SUVs, and pickup trucks - they're the most expensive."
Tips from the BBB on buying used
One of the Better Business Bureau's biggest tips on buying used vehicles is knowing who you're buying from, because the rules on returns, refunds, and service can vary wildly.
Do your homework, verify inspection histories, and test-drive the vehicle you're interested in.
Click here for their full guide on buying used vehicles.