It’s still a little early in the year to start thinking about buying a new vehicle, but planning ahead and getting a head start on getting a car that fits your needs and your budget will make things easier in the long run. To help you get started with your choices, we’ve put together a list of the top five cars for first-time buyers.

Before getting your first car, it’s smart to plan ahead. Start by figuring out a budget that not only looks at the car’s cost but also covers ongoing expenses like insurance, maintenance, and fuel. Also, think about your lifestyle-whether you’re commuting, going on family trips, or planning weekend adventures-and pick a car accordingly that fit those needs. Another practical step you can consider is to set up a steel or Wooden Garage on your property. It can keep your new vehicle safe, giving you some extra peace of mind. Taking these steps ensures you are ready and well-prepared for your first car purchase.

Now, let’s explore the top five cars for first-time buyers:

Honda Accord

The Honda Accord is one of the best mid-size sedans you can buy. With seating options for five people, an abundance of trunk space, and a powerful engine, it’s the perfect car for road trips, commuting, and running errands. It is a great choice if you want to own a car with cutting-edge technology. This midsize sedan has some of the best crash test ratings in its class. You’ll find features like Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, forward collision warning, and a multi-angle rearview camera.

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V has been a staple of the crossover class for years. It’s been the best-selling crossover SUV on the market for almost a decade, and Honda sells more than 100,000 CR-Vs in the U.S. every year. It has always been one of the best in the genre, and this year, it’s better than ever. The 2017 Honda CR-V is a reliable SUV that can comfortably fit the whole family. It has plenty of space to stash all your stuff, and with the available all-wheel drive, you’ll have peace of mind while driving in harsh weather conditions.

Subaru Legacy

Subaru’s redesigned 2019 Legacy offers drivers the chance to own a very modern vehicle with classic features. The Legacy’s 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, and the car offers 260 horsepower with 256 lb.-ft. of torque. Each trim level in the Legacy offers a suite of safety features, including standard STARLINK Safety & Security, EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, and Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.

Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV, meaning it seats up to five people comfortably. It comes in three trim levels: L, LE, and XLE (the L and LE are essentially the same, while the XLE offers more perks). The RAV4 offers a good combination of power and efficiency, with up to 28 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, and its all-wheel-drive system gives it superior traction-enough so that Toyota says it’s the best all-wheel drive SUV in its class.

Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is one of those rare cars that appeals to both male (and female) drivers. It’s versatile enough for weekend hobbies like skiing and kayaking, yet it’s comfortable enough for a husband and kids to take a long trip. In Edmunds’ Eye on Cars 2019, the Forester earned the top score in its class. And the car’s value isn’t surprising. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Forester (and most of its competitors) hold their value well over time. So, if you’re in the market for a new family car, consider these three qualities: versatility, value, and comfort.

Buying a car can be one of the best and most exciting purchases a person can make, but it can also be stressful and scary. Not to mention expensive. And no matter whether you’re a first-time car buyer or a seasoned car owner, there are some important considerations to keep in mind before you sign on the dotted line.

If you’re thinking about buying your first car, you likely have many questions about the buying process.

The tips below will help you make all the right decisions when shopping for a car.

Always Compare Prices

It’s easy to check out a vehicle’s MSRP (manufacturer’s suggested retail price), but the price you ultimately pay is determined by negotiation.

Know Your Credit Score

Many companies use your credit score to determine your interest rate. Better credit generally means a lower interest rate.

Research The Vehicles

Know what you’re looking for, such as the fuel economy, safety system, and other specific features.

Check Out Online Car Buying Resources

Shopping online can be an excellent way to find the vehicle you want-and at a reasonable price.

As people age, they naturally start to make choices about how they want to spend their time. Often, that choice includes getting a car. Buying your first car is a big milestone and an exciting one at that. Yet, it can still be somewhat overwhelming, particularly if you are new to cars.

Buying a new car is a major milestone in anyone’s life, and it’s a huge decision that needs a lot of thought. But, when the time comes, there are a few factors that should go into your decision: value, cost, fuel, reliability, safety, and drivability. Each of those factors is impacted by your choice of vehicle, so it’s important to do your homework to ensure that you get the car that’s right for your lifestyle.