How to Buy a Golf Cart
By Bill Herrfeldt
Golf carts were first introduced to the golfing world when caddies became harder to find and golfers realized it was easier to ride than to walk. Since then, golf carts have become commonplace on construction sites, college campuses and even in subdivisions where residents consider them indispensable to visit other residents or to go shopping.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Decide how you plan to use your golf cart, whether it is on the golf course, as part of your job or to tool around your neighborhood. Then decide between a gas or electric version and whether you are looking for a new or a used one. Gas-powered carts have the advantage of you being able to find/carry fuel if the cart runs low on it. An electric cart is less expensive, but it requires you have an electrical outlet available and the three to four hours it will take to charge the batteries.
Consider what extras you want. You can find just about any of the conveniences to add to your cart, from stereo systems and air conditioning to lights and major customization. Some people spend thousands of dollars more on those accessories than for the actual cart.
Establish a budget before you begin to shop. Carts can cost in the thousands of dollars, and newer ones will be double the cost of used ones.
If you are looking for a used cart, check the Internet for thousands of sources or look in the classified section of your local newspaper. Also, you can go to your local golf club and inquire whether it has used carts for sale. Go to your local retailer that specializes in new golf carts or go to the websites of various manufacturers of the carts to compare prices and inclusions.
About The Author
Bill Herrfeldt specializes in finance, sports and the needs of retiring people, and has been published in the national edition of "Erickson Tribune," the "Washington Post" and the "Arizona Republic." He graduated from the University of Louisville.
