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Are There Any Extra Steps Required If I Buy a Car in a Different State?

FAQs

If you’re not finding the ideal pre-owned vehicle near you, you might be tempted to expand your search to neighboring communities. This is especially common in places like Washington, D.C. where residents of the metro area could be living in Virginia or Maryland. It’s not at all uncommon for D.C. car shoppers living on the Maryland-side to purchase a vehicle in Arlington or Alexandria, or vice versa.

While it is not against the law to purchase a vehicle in another state, there may be some extra hoops you need to jump through in order to complete the purchase.

What Do You Need to Buy a Car in a Different State?

  1. First and foremost, you’ll need to search for used cars online to determine if you’ll be buying out of state.
  2. If you’re buying from a private seller, you should try to find a CARFAX report or the vehicle’s accident history. At Easterns, we openly post all CARFAX info on our inventory, so you don’t have to spend time digging for it.
  3. Car shoppers purchasing from private sellers in another state should strongly consider taking the car to a trusted mechanic for an inspection prior to finalizing the purchase. A pre-purchase inspection can help you avoid buying a lemon. All Easterns vehicles undergo thorough inspections and a Multi-Point Quality Certification prior to resale. 
  4. Ensure the vehicle can pass all safety and emissions requirements in your state. Every vehicle sold by Easterns can pass Maryland and Virginia emissions testing.
  5. Check with your insurance company to confirm whether your vehicle will be insured under your existing policy or if you will need new coverage immediately after purchase.
  6. Pay all required sales tax on your vehicle in your home state.
  7. After paying all necessary state sales tax, get the vehicle titled and registered in your home state. (If you buy from Easterns, we can help you handle the logistics and ensure you have a temporary title and registration to legally drive the car home.)

Having dealership locations in both Virginia and Maryland allows us to make the process of purchasing a vehicle easy for people living in either state, greatly simplifying the process for car buyers.

The Disadvantages of Buying a Car Out of State

Aside from the distance between you and the car, there are a few drawbacks and considerations to keep in mind when looking to purchase a car in a different state.

  • It’s harder to physically see it in person and test drive the car before committing to buying the vehicle.
  • Distance and being in a different legal jurisdiction can make fraudulent behavior easier for scam artists. Beware of fraud and vehicles that sound “too good to be true.”
  • Each state has its own emissions compliance, sales tax, registration and insurance requirements. As an auto group that operates in both Virginia and Maryland, Easterns Automotive makes the process of purchasing a vehicle far easier for car shoppers in both states. 

Is It Worthwhile to Buy a Car Out of State?

There are potential advantages to purchasing a car in a different state:

  • The used car inventory available to you is much larger when you expand your search to a second state. Your chances of finding the perfect preowned vehicle will be higher.
  • You may end up finding a more affordable vehicle.

Trust Easterns Automotive with Your Car Search in Virginia or Maryland

Easterns Automotive’s wide selection of pre-owned cars is easily accessible for residents of both Maryland and Virginia. We are committed to providing our customers with a hassle-free, convenient car buying experience — whether you are shopping in person or online.

Browse our inventory of used cars or visit one of our eight dealerships. Give Easterns a call at 877-867-0641 for more information today.

Helping Hands: SevaTruck

Community

SevaTruck was started by Sonny Kakar in April 2016 in an effort to reduce hunger in our communities by providing hot, nutritious meals to anyone who needs them. In partnership with food banks, shelters, and nonprofit organizations, SevaTruck provides nutritionally balanced vegetarian meals to address poverty in Washington, D.C. SevaTruck is now in several places across the country, including Michigan and San Francisco, but it originated here in Maryland, and of June 2022, they have served 40,000 meals.

In Hyattsville, Maryland, the truck recently served food to children at Rosa Parks Elementary School. Once the truck arrived at campus, a long line formed. Rhonda Summey Hester, principal of Rosa Parks Elementary School, said the truck has a major impact on the school. “It’s something our families don’t have to think about when they come here every Thursday, and they are able to get a meal and not have to worry about the next meal, ” Hester said. “They can push it a little later.”

Joel Bassam with Easterns Automotive Group was touched by Sonny’s mission to feed children. That’s why 7News Helping Hands surprised Sonny with a donation that will go a long way.

“When we learned about SevaTruck, we had to get involved. It is a truly amazing organization in the way that you are mobile, going where the need is and feeding those in need. You couldn’t do anything better with your time and your efforts,” Bassam said. “We want to support you in your efforts to continue to help feeding those that need it by donating $2,000 to your cause. Continue making lives better, it’s truly an amazing cause.”

Upon receiving the donation, Sonny was astonished and grateful and shared that this donation can buy 1,000 meals.

“This is a community responsibility, not just for me,” Kakar explained. “This is about kids having meals so they can have a productive life.”

Pay It Forward: Hustlers Guild

Community, Uncategorized,

The District is seeing an increase in reports of violent crime suspects who are younger and younger. The reports have also prompted one organization to take action. The Hustlers Guild is creating new opportunities for youth through a program that gives them a chance to live their dreams.

One of the co-founders of the Hustlers Guild joined Maureen Umeh to help sharfe more about their new program called “Beyond the Block.” The program connects youth with mentors and take them on field trips to parts of DC that they may not traditionally engage in.

Easterns Automotive Group learned of the awesome things the Hustlers Guild is doing to mentor the youth and wanted to surprise them with something special. We donated $2,000 to go towards their cause.

Can You Buy a Car Using a Credit Card?

FAQs

Buying a pre-owned vehicle is a large purchase that comes with some important financial decisions. It’s typical for most car shoppers to finance their purchases with auto loans. If you’d rather not go through the car loan process, you might be wondering whether it’s possible to buy a car using a credit card.

The truth is there is nothing that legally prohibits you from doing so, but some dealerships may limit the dollar amount on credit card purchases or may not accept credit cards altogether. If a car dealership does accept a credit card payment, it could be a feasible option for paying some or all of the down payment.

Like any large credit purchase, buying a car with a credit card might allow you to quickly acquire something you need right away. However, it can have a negative financial impact in the long run if you’re not careful.

It may make more sense to inquire about vehicle financing through Easterns Automotive before you resort to purchasing a car with your card.

What Can You Expect from a Car Dealership That Accepts Credit Cards?

Not all car dealerships will accept credit card payments. The ones that do will most likely have restrictions on the use of credit cards and may charge you transaction processing fees. While a credit card might be a necessity or convenience for you, it costs the dealer money to accept credit card payments.

The credit card fees a dealership is charged vary, but it’s usually around three percent of the transaction. For example, if you used a credit card for a $3,000 down payment on a vehicle, the dealership might be charged a $90 processing fee. They will likely pass this fee on to you. 

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Used Car on a Credit Card

  • Credit card interest rates are often much higher than used car auto loans. While each bank uses different interest rates for consumers, it’s no secret that auto loans tend to be cheaper in comparison to the interest rates of most credit cards. If you find a credit card with a zero percent APR promotional period and you’re able to pay off the balance before the period ends, then you can, in theory, pay no interest to finance the vehicle during that time. However, this still doesn’t change the fact that the dealer will most likely charge you the transaction processing fee.
  • You will need to have a high credit limit. Whether you are looking to buy the car outright or put a sizeable down payment on a credit card, you must ensure you have a high enough credit limit. You can call your bank to request a credit limit increase and they may approve it if your account is in good standing. Also, be aware of your credit utilization (the percentage of your credit that is currently being used). If it goes too high, your credit could be at risk.
  • Always notify your credit card issuer before making any large purchases. It’s good to get in the habit of contacting your credit card company to let them know that you will be making a sizeable purchase. This tells them the charge isn’t fraudulent and you should hopefully avoid any transaction delays.

What Are Your Other Options for Financing a Used Car?

If you will be unable to pay off your credit card balance as soon as it’s due, then it may not be the best financing choice for you. The good news is you have many other pre-owned car financing options:

  • Apply for an auto loan (interest rates on auto loans are much lower than credit cards)
  • Use a loan co-signer (this is a great option if your personal credit score is too low to qualify for a loan)
  • Trade-in your old vehicle and put that money toward a down payment
  • Use some (but not all) of your cash savings for the down payment

Let Easterns Automotive Help You Finance Your Used Car Purchase

Searching for a pre-owned vehicle in Washington D.C. or Baltimore can be tough. Easterns Automotive is here to help you find a car you will love — and a reasonable auto loan.

For the last 30 years, car shoppers have relied on Easterns to help them build good credit and finance their used car purchases.

Give Easterns a call at 877-867-0641 or visit one of our eight dealerships for more information on the pre-owned vehicles we have in stock.

Helping Hands: Old Soldier’s Home Foundation

Community

Pat MacArevey, chair of the Old Soldier’s Home Foundation Board, shared the dedication of their new multi-sport court, which will accommodate pickleball (the fastest growing sport among senior citizens), basketball, and badminton. Their new sports complex is next to their victory garden and outdoor patio for the residents.

“Our mission at the Old Soldier’s Home Foundation is to support residents who live here at the Armed Forces Retirement Home who have retired as NCOs or who were combat wounded and have the privilege of supporting the men and women here. It’s an incredible honor for us, the Foundation,” MacArevey said.

The Old Soldier’s home relies on donations, and every little bit helps. That is why on this Helping Hands with ABC7 News we wanted to surprise them with something special.

“The Old Soldier’s Home Foundation does such an incredible job supporting those who help protect our country in times of need and those who served it so honorably. We want to help continue to help those people by donating $2,000 to the Old Soldier’s Home Foundation so you can continue to make improvements and improve the lives of those who so bravely served,” said Joel Bassam, President of Easterns Automotive Group.

Helpings Hands: Greater DC Diaper Bank

Community

You hear a lot about food needsbut a critical need that is often overlooked is diapers. 1 in 3 families experience diaper need.

Over the last two years the Greater DC Diaper Bank has worked to meet that need. They distributed 2 million diapers in 2019. This year they are on track to distribute 10 million! It doesn’t stop at diapers, they also provide mothers with hygiene and breast feeding products, all of the things you need when you have a baby in your life.  

Rebecca Kolowé, a mom to 4-year-old named Tristan, was just named the interim executive director of the Greater DC Diaper Bank. Since joining in 2019 she has helped them expand to reaching that 10 million mark this year. They work with 76 programs within the community. If families want to access their services they can find various diaper hubs here. 

Rebecca shares, “Every day I get to help other mothers or whoever the caregiver is, whoever is providing the care for that child. You know, we know that families take so many different forms and there’s so many different reasons for that. We just want children to be able to grow up in an environment where they know that they are loved and safe and can be taken care of in a way that is best for them and their families. We want to make that a reality,” she said.

Joel Bassam, president of Easterns Automotive Group, joined with a special surprise for Rebecca and donated $2,000 to their organization so they can keep supporting families who need it.

Helping Hands: SMYAL

Community,

SMYAL is an LGTBQ organization that works to empower and support LGBTQ youth so they can function successfully in their everyday lives. SMYAL consists of various programs such as housing, community outreach, leadership and development, and clinical services programs.

Skipp O’Shea from ABC 7 spoke with SMYAL’s clinical director about their newest program, clinical services, which provides individual, group, and family therapy. They want support to be easily accessible to the LGBTQ community.

Joel Bassam joined with a special surprise, “Touched by what you guys are doing, we want to support organizations just like SMYAL, not just during pride month but year around. We want to donate $2,000 so that you guys can continue to empower LGTBQ youth, our community, and the communities around us.”

SMYAL wanted others to know that for anyone a part of the LGBTQ community looking for support or family, SMYAL is more than happy to help you and help you through your journey.

The Best Work Vehicles for Electricians, Exterminators and Plumbers

FAQs, Uncategorized

Business owners and decision makers searching for cargo vans and work trucks to buy can easily be overwhelmed by all the options available. The good news about the vast selection of trucks and cargo vans is there’s almost certainly the perfect work vehicle for your specific business needs.

A few questions to ask yourself when choosing a work vehicle:

  1. How much cargo space will I need to transport equipment/tools/goods?
  2. Will I need to stand up and move freely while inside the vehicle?
  3. Are the equipment/goods I plan to transport extremely heavy?
  4. Do I need to store my product in a temperature-controlled environment?
  5. Are my routes typically more inner city or long distances?

Examples of Work Trucks and Cargo Vans for Specific Industries

Work Vehicles for Electricians

Electricians need an efficient work van or truck with the proper storage to organize tools and power their operations. There are a few options for this line of work designed to support an electrical contractor’s day-to-day work.

  • Pick-up trucks – One of the most fuel-efficient options and great for long drives and residential jobs. Pick-up trucks with roomy cabs offer the most comfortable option for transporting several crew members between job sites, and you can add a towing trailer for more storage.
    • Example models include Ford’s F-series like the F-150 or Chevrolet Silverado
  • Cargo vans – Perfect for smaller jobs in multiple locations. Cargo vans allow for ample storage and a safe place to lock tools and equipment.
    • Example models include Ford’s Transit Vans (i.e., 2019 Ford Transit) or the Transit 250 Medium Roof
  • Service utility vans – Ideal for commercial jobs and hauling a lot of materials. Service utility vans can be customized for internal and external storage, providing a lot of space for organization and accessories.
    • Example models include the Ford Transit Cutaway Chassis or Reading’s or Knapheide’s service utility vans

Work Vehicles for Pest Control

Aside from storage space, exterminators need a reliable and fuel-efficient vehicle. Traveling to many job sites throughout the day makes efficiency and reliability important aspects of any vehicle they drive.

  • Cargo vans – Extremely cost-effective in terms of fuel and space management. Cargo vans offer plenty of room for adding storage bins and built-in shelving.
    • Example models include Ford’s Transit Vans
  • Cutaway vans – Ideal for high-level technicians who need to haul more equipment than the average cargo van can hold. Cutaway vans function as a mobile workshop and maximize storage space to help you cut down on travel costs and vehicle downtime. 
    • Example models include the Chevrolet Express Cutaway
  • Service utility vans – Cuts down on the amount of time spent looking for tools and materials. Service utility vans are efficient and highly functional with options for customization and organization. Some feature an easy one-button lock system to secure all doors and latches.

Work Vehicles for Plumbers

While plumbers could use any type of vehicle to get around from job to job, there are work vehicles specifically designed for plumbing contractors. These vehicles provide features like internet modems, overhead conduit storage and straight walls for easy shelving and organization.

  • Cargo vans – Depending on the make and model, cargo vans can come equipped with high-end features such as 4G modems for on-the-go business management. Reputable cargo van models are also known to be extremely reliable and low maintenance. Some even have room for a ladder rack to secure ladders and pipes without compromising cargo space.
    • Example models include the RAM ProMaster or Ford’s Transit Vans
  • Box trucks – Budget-friendly option that won’t break the bank. Not only are they built for weight and space, but they have the potential to be transformed into a mobile workspace. Cargo is secure with only one access point.
  • Service utility vans – Designed to store a wide variety of tools and equipment and easily organize materials from pumps to ladders. The external compartments make it easy to grab what you need without having to open the whole van. Extra space may be ideal for bulky equipment like sewer line inspection and replacement gear.

You’ll find a lot of feature similarities when comparing different makes and models of work vans and trucks. Scheduling test drives and in-person inspections is the best way to decide which is right for you. While shopping used is a great way to save money on a high-quality truck, you should pay careful attention to the condition of pre-owned commercial vehicles before purchasing.

Local businesses in the Washington D.C. and Baltimore areas have relied on Easterns Automotive for the last 30 years. Give Easterns a call at 877-867-0641 or visit one of our eight dealerships for more information on the work vehicles we have in stock.

Best Work Vehicle for Contractors

Why Business Owners Should Invest in a Heavy-Duty Work Truck

Uncategorized

Business owners who rely on fleet vehicles for their operations understand the importance of reliability, fuel efficiency and performance. Work vehicles are more nuanced than outside observers may realize at first glance. Cost is obviously one factor, but it’s not the only thing that matters when it comes to choosing the right vehicle for your business.

It’s important to find vehicles that:

  • Don’t suffer from chronic maintenance problems
  • Can reliably go hundreds of thousands of miles
  • Boast the right combination of fuel efficiency and performance
  • Have adequate storage space to meet your needs
  • Come equipped with the right features to allow your employees to do their jobs
  • Are relatively affordable to maintain and repair

Service business, contractors and delivery companies may put hundreds of miles on their vehicles every day. Breakdowns can affect your bottom line and jeopardize your schedule, which in turn can have a negative impact on your reputation.

While the performance of drivers is of utmost importance, it’s not the only factor contributing to accident avoidance. Vehicles should have high-quality safety features that prevent accidents and the resulting potential for business liability issues.  

Your business vehicle can have far-reaching consequences for your business, making your purchase choice a potentially make-or-break decision.

Buying a Heavy-Duty Truck Can Help Your Business

There’s no doubt you work hard to make your business a success. Between late nights and long weekend hours, you put in the time to grow your business and see it thrive. As a result, the work vehicle you drive is likely subjected to far more road time than your private commuter vehicle. Businesses that operate multiple shifts per day may have vehicles that run for 16 consecutive hours or more each day.  

This is why performance, fuel efficiency and reliability go hand in hand for work trucks and vans.

You might also be shopping for a work vehicle that better meets your current job demands. For example, having a larger vehicle might improve your company’s processes by allowing you to carry more equipment or tools.

While personally inspecting a car, truck or SUV before you buy it is always important, it’s even more vital for business vehicle shoppers. You likely have very specific size, power or storage capacity needs.

At Easterns, we’d be happy to show you our diverse selection of trucks and cargo vans and allow you to carefully inspect them before making a purchase.

Why You Shouldn’t Buy a Used Rental Truck or Van

Although you can turn to truck and cargo van rental companies to purchase pre-owned work vehicles, there’s no guarantee they’re in good shape. Purchasing from rental companies is always a risk due to the high number of past users and questionable maintenance and upkeep practices.

Most used rental trucks and vans have more miles than a traditional pre-owned vehicle. While a used rental truck or van might only be a few years old, the high mileage can prematurely age the vehicle — shortening its life and decreasing its valuation. While a lower price may superficially seem like a good thing, it’s not ideal for many businesses looking for reliable commercial trucks or vans.

Plus, the manufacturer’s warranty is more than likely expired on high-mileage vehicles, forcing you to rely on the limited warranty the rental company provides (if that’s even an option).

You’ll never know the full extent of the wear and tear on former rental vehicles. As a rental, it has been driven by a lot of different people — people who likely aren’t familiar with driving cargo vans or large trucks. They may have operated it irresponsibly, leaving it in rougher shape than a normal used cargo van or work truck.

There are also no guarantees regarding the vehicle’s maintenance and service history. Like all businesses, rental companies strive to minimize their expenses while maximizing revenue. That means spending as little as possible on maintenance while keeping their trucks rented out as much as possible.

Chances are the rental company did just enough maintenance to keep the vehicle running but didn’t go out of their way to protect it for the long haul.

Where Can You Buy a Commercial Vehicle or Heavy-Duty Work Truck?

Businesses in Washington D.C. and Baltimore have a lot of options when they’re shopping for cargo vans, work trucks and other light and heavy-duty work vehicles, including Easterns Automotive.

Easterns Automotive has been supporting local businesses in our community for over 30 years. We make it easy for you to find the commercial vehicle that fits your everyday business needs.

Give Easterns a call at 877-867-0641 or visit one of our eight dealerships today for more information.

What Should You Look for in a Cargo Van for Your Small Business?

FAQs

Cargo vans are a necessity for many businesses that need to transport goods or haul equipment between job sites. From catering to contracting companies, cargo vans are an excellent way to get from one job to the next with all your product and equipment securely stored and organized.

How do you know which cargo van is right for your business? It comes down to efficiency, features and personal preference. When inspecting various options, ask yourself the question, “Will this van work for me and help me serve my customers well?”

What Businesses Need Cargo Vans?

Easterns Automotive has been selling vehicles to businesses and commuters in Virginia and Maryland for more than 30 years. We’ve helped all types of businesses find great work trucks and cargo vans to meet their needs over the years, including:  

  • Florists
  • Plumbers
  • Contractors
  • Party planners
  • HVAC professionals
  • Caterers
  • Wedding vendors
  • Painters
  • Electricians
  • Pest Control
  • Dog groomers
  • Delivery services
  • Production companies

Key Features of a Cargo Van

Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) – The maximum weight of a cargo van. For example, if a cargo van’s GVWR is 8,000 pounds and it weighs 4,000 pounds empty, then you have 4,000 pounds left to use for loading.

Payload capacity – The payload capacity is how much weight you can add to the vehicle. (i.e., the 4,000 pounds you have left to load.)

Fuel type – Will the van require gas or diesel, and does that matter to you?

Roof height – If you plan on being able to stand inside the cargo van, make sure to find a van with a roof height tall enough to walk around in.

Cargo space – Obviously, you’re purchasing a cargo van for the space in the back. Make sure you consider everything that needs to fit back there and how it would need to be organized in order to meet your needs.

Drivetrain – There are four types of drivetrains: all-wheel drive (AWD), four-wheel drive (4WD), front-wheel drive (FWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD). Think about what type of terrain and climate you’ll be driving in and determine what will be the safest, most efficient drivetrain for your cargo van.

Safety features — Newer cargo vans have many of the same safety features we see in commuter vehicles nowadays. (i.e., blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, automatic headlights, etc.) These features can help prevent accidents, shielding your business from potentially costly liability claims.

Wheelbase – The general rule of thumb is the longer the wheelbase the smoother the van will drive, and the shorter the wheelbase the bumpier the ride. Shorter wheelbases have more maneuverability, allowing for easier and tighter turns, while longer wheelbases provide a more comfortable, stable ride (this is especially important for passenger vans).

Doors – Cargo vans have several potential door variations. Dual-side doors are fairly self-explanatory; there are doors on both sides of the van. Dutch doors are doors on the back of a van that are hinged to swing out to the side. Some vans even have a rear lift gate like a commuter SUV or minivan. From a business perspective, rear lift gates tend to be the least functional option. Most businesses will want either Dutch doors or dual-side doors.

Powertrain – Commercial vehicles like cargo vans offer more powertrain and fuel options than many commuter vehicle models. Newer models of Ford, like the Transit Connect Cargo Van, have many configuration options and emissions-control features, including things like Eco Mode and CNG/propane packages.

Perks of Driving a Cargo Van

  • Fuel efficiency
  • Reliability
  • Interior and exterior customization and business branding
  • Comfort
  • Temperate control (perfect for florists or caterers)
  • Mobility
  • Tax benefits/deductions

For the last 30 years, local businesses in the Washington D.C. and Baltimore areas have relied on Easterns Automotive for their company vehicle needs.

When you’re ready to purchase a cargo van, we are here to help. Give Easterns a call at 877-867-0641 or visit one of our eight dealerships today.