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Personal Finance Kapoor 11th Edition Solutions Manual

Personal Finance Kapoor 11th Edition Solutions


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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

8
CONSUMER PURCHASING STRATEGIES AND LEGAL
PROTECTION

CHAPTER OVERVIEW
While making consumer purchases may not be considered in most financial plans, these choices affect
financial resources available for other purposes. This chapter starts with a discussion of the factors that
influence buying habits. Selected purchasing strategies are then covered, including types of retail stores,
brands, and comparison shopping methods. Next, a systematic approach to making purchase decisions is
presented related to buying, leasing, and operating motor vehicles. The chapter concludes with a
discussion of consumer protection actions and legal alternatives available to individuals.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES CHAPTER SUMMARY

After studying this chapter, students will be able to:

LO 8-1 Identify strategies for Various economic, social, and personal factors influence daily
effective consumer buying decisions. Overspending and poor money management are
buying frequent causes of overuse of credit and other financial difficulties.
. Timing purchases, comparing stores and brands, using label
information, computing unit prices, and evaluating warranties are
common strategies for effective purchasing.
LO 8-2 Implement a process for A research-based approach to consumer buying involves: (1)
making consumer preshopping activities, such as problem identification and
purchases. information gathering; (2) evaluating alternatives; (3) determining
the purchase price; and (4) postpurchase activities, such as proper
operation and maintenance.
LO 8-3 Identify steps to take to Most consumer problems can be resolved by following these steps:
resolve consumer (1) return to the place of purchase; (2) contact the company’s main
problems. office; (3) obtain assistance from a consumer agency; and (4) take
legal action.

LO 8-4 Evaluate the legal Small claims court, class action suits, and the services of a lawyer
alternatives available to are legal means for handling consumer problems that cannot be
consumers. resolved through communication with the business involved or
through the help of a consumer protection agency.

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

INTRODUCTORY ACTIVITIES

 Ask students to comment on their responses to the “My Life” chapter opening exercise (p. 267).
 Point out the learning objectives (p. 267) in an effort to highlight the key points in the chapter.
 Ask students to provide examples of purchasing decisions and buying decisions that could affect a
person’s overall financial situation.
 Point out the opportunity costs of consumer buying habits that could affect reaching other financial
goals.
 Discuss common causes of consumer problems and methods that could be used to resolve these
situations.

WHAT'S NEW TO THIS EDITION

Topics, Features Benefits for the Teaching-Learning Environment


New visual: Buying Influences and Presents an overview of factors that influence buying and actions
Wise Spending Strategies. that may be taken for wise shopping decisions.
New feature: Net present value of Provides a framework to assess various consumer purchases in
buying a hybrid car terms of the time value of money.
New example: Upside down Presents a numeric examples for a situation in which the balance of
an auto loan exceeds the value of the vehicle.
New visual: Resolving Consumer Offers detailed actions for obtaining assistance when facing a
Complaints consumer problem situation.

CHAPTER 8 OUTLINE

I. Consumer Buying Activities


A. Financial Implications of Consumer Decisions
B. Practical Purchasing Strategies
1. Timing Purchases
2. Store Selection
3. Brand Comparison
4. Label Information
5. Price Comparison
B. Warranties
1. Used-Car Warranties
2. New-Car Warranties
3. Service Contracts
II. Making Major Consumer Purchases: Buying Motor Vehicles
A. Phase 1: Preshopping Activities
1. Problem Identification

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

2. Information Gathering
B. Phase 2: Evaluating Alternatives
1. Selecting Vehicle Options
2. Comparing Used Vehicles
3. Leasing a Motor Vehicle
C. Phase 3: Determining Purchase Price
1. Used-Car Price Negotiation
2. Price Bargaining for New Cars
3. Comparing Financing Alternatives
D. Phase 4: Postpurchase Activities
1. Automobile Operation Costs
2. Motor Vehicle Maintenance
3. Automobile Servicing Sources
III. Resolving Consumer Complaints
A. Step 1: Initial Communication
B. Step 2: Communication with the Company
C. Step 3: Consumer Agency Assistance
D. Step 4: Legal Action
IV. Legal Options for Consumers
A. Small Claims Court
B. Class-Action Suits
C. Using a Lawyer
D. Other Legal Alternatives
E. Personal Consumer Protection

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

CHAPTER 8 LECTURE OUTLINE Instructional Suggestions

I. CONSUMER BUYING ACTIVITIES (p. 268)  Use PPT slides 8-2 to 8-5.

Financial Implications of Consumer Decisions (p. 268)  Text Highlight: Exhibit 8-1
presents the relationship
 Your daily buying habits are affected by a wide between wise buying and
variety of economic, social, and personal factors. financial security.
 Opportunity costs of daily buying decisions are
commonly overlooked trade-offs such as:
 higher costs when buying on credit
 buying poor quality items
 buying brands that are difficult to obtain repair
service
 buying by mail to save time and money but
having a difficult time returning the item
 using time and effort to comparison shop

Wise Purchasing Strategies (p. 269)


 Various shopping techniques should be considered for
 Use PPT slides 8-6 to 8-9.
various purchasing situations.
Timing Purchases
 Many people save by buying holiday items and other
products at reduced prices in late December and early
January, when retail sales are slow.
 Bargains can be obtained by buying winter clothing in
midwinter or late winter or by buying summer
clothing in midsummer or late summer.
Store Selection
 Your decision to shop at a particular store is probably
influenced by the variety of merchandise and quality  Assignment: Have students
conduct a survey to determine
of its brands. the factors that influence store
 Also important are the store’s policies with regard to choice among consumers.
such matters as check cashing, exchanges, and
frequency of sales.
Brand Comparison
 Comparison shopping is the process of considering
alternative stores, brands, and prices. In contrast,  Text Highlight: The "Financial
impulse buying is unplanned purchasing. While some Planning Calculations " feature
impulse buying may be acceptable, too much can (pp. 270-271) provides two
consumer buying analysis tools"
cause financial problems. net present value and a
 Brand name products are highly advertised items that consumer buying matrix.
are available in many stores.
 Store brand products, sold by one chain of stores, are
low-cost alternatives to famous name products.
 Generic items, plain package, nonbrand items,
provide a low-cost third choice.
Label Information
 Federal law requires that a label on all food products

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

CHAPTER 8 LECTURE OUTLINE Instructional Suggestions


contain information on the common name of the
product, the name and address of the manufacturer or
distributor, the net weight, and ingredients listed in
decreasing order of weight.
 Product labeling for appliances includes information
on operating costs that can assist you in selecting the
most energy-efficient models.
 Open dating tells consumers about the freshness or
shelf life of a perishable product.
Price Comparison
 Unit Pricing uses a standard unit of measurement to
 Text Highlight: The example
compare the prices of packages of different sizes. on page 272 provides an
 The process for calculating the unit price is as explanation of unit pricing.
follows:
Step 1. Determine the common unit of
measurement, such as ounces, pounds, gallons, or
number of sheets (for items such as paper towel
or facial tissues).
Step 2: Divide the price by the number of
common units; for example, an 8-ounce package
of breakfast cereal selling for $1.52 has a unit
price of 19 cents per ounce, while an 11-ounce
package costing $1.98 has a unit price of 18 cents
per ounce.
Step 3: Compare the unit price for various sizes,
brands, and stores to determine the best buy for
your situation.
 Remember, the package with the lowest unit price
 Text Highlight: Exhibit 8-2
may not be the best buy for you since it may contain (p. 273) provides a summary of
more food than you would use before it spoiled. wise online buying activities.
Warranties (p. 272)
 A warranty is a written guarantee from the
manufacturer or distributor of a product that specifies
the conditions under which the product can be  Use PPT slide 8-10.
returned, replaced, or repaired.
 An express warranty, usually in written form, is
created by the seller or manufacturer and can be a full
warranty or a limited warranty.
 An implied warranty is the result of a product’s
intended use or other suggested understandings that
are not in writing.
Used-Car Warranties (p. 272)
 The Federal Trade Commission requires businesses
that sell used cars to have a buyers’ guide sticker.
This disclosure must state if the car comes with a
warranty; if so, what is the specific protection.
 While a used car may not have an express warranty,
most states have implied warranties that protect the

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

CHAPTER 8 LECTURE OUTLINE Instructional Suggestions


basic rights of a used car buyer.
New-Car Warranties (p. 274)
 New car warranties provide buyers with some
assurance of quality. These warranties vary in time
and mileage of the protection they offer and in the
parts they cover.

Service Contracts (p. 274)


 A service contract is an agreement between a
business and a consumer to cover the repair costs of a
product. While sometimes called extended
warranties, they are not warranties.
 For a fee, they insure the buyer against losses due to
the cost of certain repairs. Automotive service
contracts can cover repairs not included in the  Text Highlight: The "Financial
manufacturer’s warranty. Planning for Life's Situations"
 Service contracts range from $400 to over $1,000; feature (p. 275) discusses
common consumer buying
however, they do not always include everything you
myths.
might expect.
 Because of costs and exclusions, service contracts  Practice Quiz 8-1 (p. 274)
may not be a wise financial decision.

II. MAKING MAJOR CONSUMER PURCHASES:  Use PPT slides 8-11, 8-12, 8-
BUYING MOTOR VEHICLES (p. 275) 18.
 Discussion Question: How can
 A specific decision-making process can help to make consumers determine if
effective purchases. information from advertising
and other business sources is
Phase 1: Preshopping Activities (p. 275) reliable?
 Objective decision making must start with a planned  Text Highlight: Exhibit 8-3 (p.
course of action. Define your shopping problem in 276) provides an overview of
terms of a broad perspective. the phases involved in the
research-based approach for
 Information is power. The better informed you are, consumer purchasing.
the more likely you are to make the purchasing choice
 Current Example: Compulsive
that best serves your interest.
shoppers tend to have some of
 The main sources of consumer information are: the following characteristics:
1. personal contacts  run up credit card balances
2. business organizations including advertising,  miss paying some bills
labels, and sales personnel
 make only minimum
3. media information from television, radio, payment on charge
newspapers, and magazines accounts
4. independent testing organizations such as  hide purchases from partner
Consumers Union and Underwriters Laboratories  throw out clothes that have
5. government agencies never been worn
6. online sources  buy something every time a
store is entered
Phase 2: Evaluation of Alternatives (p. 277)
 Some individuals may
 Each alternative needs to be evaluated on the basis of require professional help

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

CHAPTER 8 LECTURE OUTLINE Instructional Suggestions


such factors as personal values and goals, available with this behavior disorder.
time and money, the costs of each alternative, the
benefits of each alternative, and your specific needs
with regard to product size, quality, quantity, and
features.
 As you research various consumer purchases, you will
need to identify the attributes important to you.
 Research studies have shown that price variations can
occur for all types of products. For a single-lens reflex
camera, prices may range from under $200 to well
over $500. The price of aspirin may range from less
than 50 cents to over $3 for 100 five-grain tablets.
 You can benefit from comparison shopping when
 Exercise: Create a list of the
 buying expensive or complex items most popular optional features
 buying items you purchase often for motor vehicles, and discuss
 comparison can be done easily (using ads or their costs and benefits.
catalogs)
 different sellers offer different prices and services
 product quality or prices vary greatly.

Selecting Vehicle Options (p. 277)


 Optional equipment can be grouped into three
categories: (1) devices to improve performance and
ease of operation, (2) comfort and convenience
options, and (3) features that add to the vehicle’s
visual appeal.
Comparing Used Vehicles (p. 277)
Common sources of used cars include:
 New-car dealers offer late-model vehicles and may
give you a warranty, which usually means higher
prices than at other sources.
 Used-car dealers usually have older vehicles.
Warranties, if offered, will be limited. However,
lower prices may be available.
 Individuals selling their own cars can be a bargain if
the vehicle was well maintained. Few consumer
protection regulations apply to private-party sales.
Caution is suggested.
 Auctions and dealers sell automobiles previously
owned by businesses, auto rental companies, and
government agencies.
 Used-car superstores, such as CarMax, offer a large
inventory of previously owned vehicles.
 Online used-car businesses, such as
www.dealernet.com and www.americasautomall.com.
 Certified, pre-owned (CPO) vehicles are nearly new  Use PPT slides 8-13.
cars that come with the original manufacturer’s
guarantee of quality. The rigorous inspection and

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

CHAPTER 8 LECTURE OUTLINE Instructional Suggestions


repair process means a higher price than other used
vehicles.
 Text Highlight: The "Financial
Leasing a Motor Vehicle (p. 278)
Planning Calculations" feature
 Leasing is a contractual agreement with monthly (p. 279) provides a framework
payments for the use of an automobile over a set time for comparing buying and
period. leasing a motor vehicle.
 The main advantages of leasing include:
(1) only a small cash outflow may be required for the
security deposit;
(2) monthly lease payments are usually lower than
monthly financing payments;
(3) the lease agreement provides detailed records for
business purposes; and
(4) you are usually able to obtain a more expensive
vehicle, more often.
 Major drawbacks of leasing include:
(1) no ownership interest in the vehicle;
(2) a need to meet requirements similar to qualifying
for credit;
(3) additional costs may be incurred for extra mileage,
certain repairs, turning the car in early, or even a
move to another state.
 When leasing, you arrange for the dealer to sell the
vehicle through a financing company. As a result, be
sure you know the true cost, including
o The capitalized cost, which is the price of the
vehicle.
o The money factor, which is the interest rate
being paid on the capitalized cost.
o The monthly payment and number of
payments.
o The residual value, or the expected value of
the vehicle at the end of the lease.
 After the final payment, you may to return, keep, or
sell the vehicle.

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

CHAPTER 8 LECTURE OUTLINE Instructional Suggestions

Phase 3: Determining Purchase Price (p. 280)


 Negotiation of price may be possible in a buying  Use PPT slides 8-14 and 8-15.
situation when:
1. you have all the necessary information about the
product and buying situation.
2. you deal with a person who has the authority to
give you a lower price or additional features, such
as the owner or store manager.

Used-Car Price Negotiation (p. 280)


 You can begin to determine a fair price by checking
newspaper ads for the prices of comparable vehicles.
Several published sources also list current prices for
used cars.
 The basic price of a used car is also influenced by the
number of miles and special features and options.

Price Bargaining For New Cars (p. 280)


 The sticker price, displayed in printed form on the
vehicle, is the suggested retail price of a new car and
optional equipment.
 Information about the dealer’s cost may be obtained
from several sources including books available at
libraries and computerized data services.
 Start your price bargaining by comparing prices of
similar automobiles at several dealers.
 Use dealer’s cost information in your effort to get a
vehicle price that is only a couple of hundred dollars
over the dealer’s cost.
 Lowballing occurs when a new car buyer is quoted a
very low price and add-on costs increase before the
deal is concluded.
 Highballing occurs when a new car buyer is offered a
very high price for a trade-in vehicle, with the extra
amount made by increasing the price of the new car.

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

CHAPTER 8 LECTURE OUTLINE Instructional Suggestions

Comparing Financing Alternatives (p. 281)


 Car loans are available from banks, credit unions, finance  Use PPT slides 8-16 and 8-17.
companies, and other financial institutions.
 The annual percentage rate (APR) is the best indicator of
the true cost of credit.
Phase 4: Postpurchase Activities (p. 282)
 Maintenance and ownership costs may be associated with
the purchased item.
 In some situations, you may not be satisfied with a
purchase. A wide variety of grounds for complaint can
occur.
Automobile Operation Costs (p. 282)
 Your driving costs will vary based on two main factors—
the size of your automobile and the number of miles you
drive.
 The largest fixed expense associated with a new
automobile is depreciation, the loss in the vehicle’s value
due to time and use.
 Another fixed ownership cost is the interest charge for
financing an automobile purchase.
 Other fixed costs associated with automobile ownership
are insurance, license and registration fees, and taxes.
Since fixed costs are fairly constant, they are easier to
anticipate than variable costs.
 Expenses related directly to the operation of a vehicle are
gasoline, oil, tires, maintenance, repairs, and replacement
parts.
 An awareness of the total cost of owning and operating an
automobile can be valuable for overall financial planning.

Motor Vehicle Maintenance (p. 282)  Text Highlight: Exhibit 8-6 (p. 283)
 People who sell, repair, or drive automobiles for a living provides a list of proper motor vehicle
state that regular vehicle care is one of your best maintenance.
investments.
 The systems of your car that should be monitored and
maintained on a regular basis are the engine, cooling
system, transmission, brakes, steering mechanism, exhaust
components, and suspension.

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

CHAPTER 8 LECTURE OUTLINE Instructional Suggestions

Automobile Servicing Sources (p. 283)


 The service department of a car dealer offers a wide range  Use PPT slide 8-18.
of car care activities; their charges are generally higher
than other service locations.
 Local gas stations often provide convenience and
reasonable prices for most repairs; fewer full-service
stations are available than in the past.
 Independent repair shops serve a wide variety of servicing
needs at competitive prices.
 Mass merchandising retailers offer convenient, low-cost
service, and usually emphasize the sale of tires, batteries,
mufflers, and other replacement parts.
 Specialty shops are limited-service businesses that offer a  Text Highlight: Exhibit 8-7 (p. 283)
single product or maintenance effort at a reasonable price. warns of common auto repair frauds.
 Many individuals avoid repair fraud problems and
minimize costs by working on their own vehicles.  Practice Quiz 8-2 (p. 284)

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

CHAPTER 8 LECTURE OUTLINE Instructional Suggestions

III. RESOLVING CONSUMER COMPLAINTS (p.  Use PPT slides 8-19 and 8-20.
284)  Text Highlight: Exhibit 8-8 (p.
288) provides an overview of
 Every business transaction is a potential problem. the process for resolving
Most customer difficulties are the result of defective consumer complaints.
products, low quality, short product lives, unexpected
 Text Highlight: Exhibit 8-9 (p.
costs, and poor repairs. 287) suggests a format for a
 You will probably never be completely satisfied with complaint e-mail/letter when
every purchase you make. The process for resolving contacting a business or
differences has four phases: consumer agency.
1. Initial communication  Supplementary Resource:
2. Communication with the company Have students access the
Consumer Resource Handbook
3. Consumer agency assistance at http://publications.usa.gov/
4. Legal action.  Supplementary Example:
 Mediation is involvement of an impartial third party Federal law allows a person
who tries to resolve a difference between a customer three business days to cancel a
contract for $25 or more if the
and a business through discussion and negotiation.
agreement was signed away
 Arbitration is the settlement of a difference by a from the seller’s regular place of
third party—the arbitrator—whose decision is legally business. This “cooling-off” law
binding. does not apply to purchases
made at a retail business in a
 Many state, local, and federal government agencies fixed location or for transactions
are available to assist consumers; see Appendix B. made by mail or phone. The
cancellation right also applies to
home-equity loans, health club
memberships, and discount
buying clubs, no matter where
the contract is signed. Many
states have a cooling-off period
when buying timeshare vacation
property, while others also cover
campground memberships.

 Practice Quiz 8-3 (p. 288)

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

CHAPTER 8 LECTURE OUTLINE Instructional Suggestions

IV. LEGAL OPTIONS FOR CONSUMERS (p. 288)  Use PPT slide 8-21.

 If all previously mentioned avenues of action fail to  Supplementary Resource: Talk


to a lawyer to obtain information
resolve a consumer complaint, legal action may be about types of situations that
appropriate. require legal assistance. How
can people avoid some of the
Small Claims Court (p. 289) legal problems they commonly
encounter?
 In a small claims court, a person may file a claim for
legal matters involving amounts under a set limit.  Text Highlight: The “How
 To make best use of small claims court, the following to…” feature on page 290
provides details on filing a suit
tips are suggested: in small claims court.
 Become familiar with the location, procedures,
 Discussion Question: What are
and filing fees (usually ranging from $5 to $50) the best methods for staying
 Observe other cases to learn more about the informed on current consumer
process problems?
 Present your case in a polite, calm, and concise  Current Example: Complaint
manner letters and store protests have
 Submit evidence such as photographs, contracts, given way to technology.
Several hundred websites have
receipts, and other documents
been created by consumers
 Use witnesses who can testify on your behalf wishing to let others know of
their dissatisfaction with a
Class Action Suits (p. 289) company.
 A class action suit is a legal action taken by a few
individuals on behalf of all the people who have
suffered the same alleged injustice.
 Recent class action suits included auto owners who
were sold unneeded replacement parts for their
vehicles and a group of investors who sued a
brokerage company for unauthorized buy and sell
transactions resulting in high commission charges.
Using a Lawyer (p. 289)
 Deciding when to use a lawyer is difficult. In general,
straightforward legal situations usually do not require
 Text Reference: The “Financial
legal counsel. But for more complicated matters, it is
Planning for Life’s Situations”
probably wise to obtain legal assistance. feature on page 291 provides an
Other Legal Alternatives (p. 290) opportunity to discuss various
business practices in relation to
 A legal aid society is one of a network of publicly potential legal violations.
supported community law offices that provide legal
assistance to consumers who cannot afford their own
attorney.
 Prepaid legal services are programs that provide
unlimited or reduced-fee legal assistance for a set fee.
Personal Consumer Protection (p. 291)
 Consumer protection devices are of no value unless a
person is aware of them, and makes use of them when
seeking information or resolving a problem.  Practice Quiz 8-4 (p. 292)

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

CONCLUDING ACTIVITIES

 Point out the chapter summary (p. 293) and key terms in the text margin.

 Use the “My Life Stage” feature (p. 292) to highlight the main financial planning activities from the
chapter for various ages and life situations.
 Discuss selected end-of-chapter Financial Planning Problems, Financial Planning Activities, and Life
Situation Case.
 Use Chapter Quiz in the Instructor’s Manual.

WORKSHEETS FROM PERSONAL FINANCIAL PLANNER FOR USE


WITH CHAPTER 8

Use the “Your Personal Financial Planner in Action” (pp. 296-297) activities to encourage students to
plan and implement various personal financial decisions.

Sheet 32 Unit Pricing Comparison


Sheet 33 Major Consumer Purchase Comparison
Sheet 34 Current and Future Transportation Needs
Sheet 35 Used Car Purchase Comparison
Sheet 36 Buying vs. Leasing an Automobile
Sheet 37 Comparing Cash and Credit for Major Purchases
Sheet 38 Automobile Ownership and Operation Costs
Sheet 39 Legal Services Cost Comparison

CHAPTER 8 QUIZ ANSWERS

True-False Multiple Choice


1. F (p. 275) 6. C (p. 272)
2. T (p. 276) 7. A (p. 277)
3. T (p. 270) 8. D (p. 278)
4. T (p. 272) 9. A (p. 288)
5. F (p. 285) 10. C (p. 290)

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

Name ________________________________________ Date____________________________

CHAPTER 8 QUIZ

TRUE-FALSE
_____1. The first element in a purchasing decision is gathering information.
_____2. Consumer information from business organizations includes advertising,
product labels, and packaging.
_____3. National name brand products usually cost more than store brands or generics.
_____4. An express warranty is usually in a written form.
_____5. Most consumer complaints are resolved with the use of a government agency
or by taking legal action.

MULTIPLE CHOICE
_____6. A(n) __________ warranty covers most repairs of a product.
a. limited
b. implied
c. full
d. express

_____7. The highest prices for used cars are usually at a


a. new-car dealer.
b. used-car dealer.
c. private-party sale.
d. public auto auction.

_____8. When leasing a motor vehicle, the capitalized cost refers to the
a. security deposit.
b. residual value.
c. interest rate.
d. price of the vehicle.

_____9. A legally binding decision by a third part is


a. arbitration.
b. mediation.
c. a legal society.
d. a pre-paid legal service.

_____10. __________ are publicly supported community law offices that provide legal
assistance to consumers who cannot afford their own attorney.
a. Small claims courts
b. Class action suits
c. Legal aid societies
d. Legal clinics

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

SUPPLEMENTARY ACTIVITY

Consumer Decision-Making Styles Inventory


Your Consumer Choices

This page contains statements on different interests and priorities consumers have. Please read each
statement and circle the number indicating how much you agree or disagree with the statement as a
description of you.

Disagree

Disagree

Between
Strongly

Strongly
Agree

Agree
In
1. Getting very good quality is very important to me 1 2 3 4 5
2. The well-known national brands are best for me 1 2 3 4 5
3. I usually have one or more outfits of the very newest style 1 2 3 4 5
4. Shopping is a pleasant activity to me 1 2 3 4 5
5. I buy as much as possible at “sale” prices 1 2 3 4 5
6. I should plan my shopping more carefully than I do 1 2 3 4 5
7. There are so many brands to choose from that often I feel
confused 1 2 3 4 5
8. I have favorite brands I buy over and over 1 2 3 4 5
9. When it comes to purchasing products, I try to get the very
best 1 2 3 4 5
10. The more expensive brands are usually my choices 1 2 3 4 5
11. I keep my wardrobe up-to-date with the changing fashions 1 2 3 4 5
12. Going shopping is one of the enjoyable activities of my life 1 2 3 4 5
13. The lower price products are usually my choice 1 2 3 4 5
14. I am impulsive when shopping 1 2 3 4 5
15. Sometimes it’s hard to choose which stores to shop 1 2 3 4 5
16. Once I find a product or brand I like, I stick with it 1 2 3 4 5

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

Scoring Summary

Directions: Add your scores for items on Your Consumer Choices:

Perfectionist Consumer = 1._____ + 9._____ = _____


Brand Conscious Consumer = 2._____ + 10._____ = _____
Fashion Conscious Consumer = 3._____ + 11._____ = _____
Recreational Shopping Conscious Consumer = 4._____ + 12._____ = _____
Price-Value Conscious Consumer = 5._____ + 13._____ = _____
Impulsive Consumer = 6._____ + 14._____ = _____
Confused by Overchoice Consumer = 7._____ + 15._____ = _____
Habitual-Brand Loyal Customer = 8._____ + 16._____ = _____

Scoring Interpretation

Scores of 9-10 = You are HIGH on this consumer characteristic.

Scores of 6-8 = You are MODERATE to AVERAGE on this consumer characteristic.

Scores of 2-5 = You are LOW on this consumer characteristic.

8-17
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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

ANSWERS TO PRACTICE QUIZZES, FINANCIAL PLANNING PROBLEMS,


FINANCIAL PLANNING ACTIVITIES, FINANCIAL PLANNING CASE, AND
CONTINUING CASE

PRACTICE QUIZZES

Practice Quiz 8-1 (p. 274)


1. What factors commonly influence a person’s daily buying choices?
Buying decisions are most influenced by economic factors (inflation, taxes, interest rates,
government regulations), personal factors (age, sex, income, family situation), and social factors
(lifestyle, interests, hobbies, advertising). (Exhibit 8-1, p. 268)
Different individuals tend to overlook different factors. An increased awareness of these factors can
assist in making wiser and more satisfying consumer choices.
2. How are daily buying decisions related to overall financial planning?
As shown in Exhibit 8-1 (p. 268), a person’s spending patterns can result in either financial
difficulties or achievement of desired financial goals.
3. What types of brands are commonly available to consumers?
Consumers have a choice of brand-name, store-brand, and generic products. (p. 270)
4. In what types of situations can comparing prices help in purchasing decisions?
Comparing prices can be helpful when buying expensive or complex items, when competing brands
are available, when different package sizes are available, and when product quality varies. (p. 272)
5. How does a service contract differ from a warranty? What rights do purchasers of products have even
if there is no written warranty?
A service contract is a paid agreement for repairs. A warranty is a feature offered by a manufacturer
or distributor.
Even if there is not a written warranty, certain implied warranties are present. For example, sale of an
item implies that the store owns the product or an item must do what it is intended to do, at least for a
while! (p. 272)

Practice Quiz 8-2 (p. 284)


1. What are the major sources of consumer information?
The major sources of consumer information are personal contacts, business organizations, media
information, independent testing organizations, online sources, and government agencies. (p. 276)

2. What actions are appropriate when buying a used car?

Identify sources of used vehicles, research and compare prices, condition of vehicle, and options.

3. When might leasing a motor vehicle be appropriate?

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

Leasing may be appropriate for business use or when a new vehicle is desired every few years.

4. What maintenance activities could increase the life of your vehicle?

Frequent oil changes, regular tune-ups, and checking belts, hoses, and fluids regularly can minimize
major repairs and maximize vehicle life.

Practice Quiz 8-3 (p. 288)


1. What are common causes of consumer problems and complaints?
Not being informed in advance of factors such as warranties, service availability, prices at various
stores, or cost of installation can result in consumer complaints. Also, not asking questions and not
obtaining details in writing are common causes of consumer problems. (p. 284)
2. How can most consumer complaints be solved?
Most consumer complaints are solved by contacting the store or company office. (p. 285)
3. How does arbitration differ from mediation?
Mediation is the involvement of a third party to suggest solutions in a dispute; arbitration is a legally
binding decision by a third party made once the two parties in dispute agree to the process. (pp. 288)

Practice Quiz 8-4 (p. 292)


1. In what types of situations would small claims court and class action suits be helpful?
Small claims court is helpful for minor consumer problems that require legal action. Class action
suits can provide legal assistance to a group with the same consumer complaint. (p. 289)
2. Describe some situations in which you might use the services of a lawyer.
If a consumer situation is complicated or involves a large sum of money, the use of a lawyer may be
appropriate. Situations might include a product injury case, settling an estate, purchase of real estate,
adoption of a child, or a divorce. (p. 289)

FINANCIAL PLANNING PROBLEMS (p. 293)

1. Calculating Future Value. You can purchase a service contract for all of your major appliances for
$180 a year. If the appliances are expected to last for 10 years and you earn 5 percent on your savings,
what would be the future value of the amount you will pay for the service contract?
Solution: $180  12.578 (PVA 5%, 10 years) = $2,264.04
LO: 8-1
Topic: Calculating Future Value
LOD: Medium
Bloom’s tag: Application

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

2. Future Value of Wise Buying. If a person saves $63 a month by using coupons and doing comparison
shopping, (a) what is the amount for a year? (b) What would be the future value of this annual amount
over 10 years, assuming an interest rate of 4 percent?
Solution: (a) $63 × 12 = $756; (b) $756 × 12.006 = $9,076.54
LO: 8-1
Topic: Future Value of Wise Buying.
LOD: Medium
Bloom’s tag: Application

3. Comparing Buying Alternatives. Tammy Monahan is considering the purchase of a home


entertainment center. The product attributes she plans to consider and the weights she gives to them are
as follows:
Portability .1
Sound projection .6
Warranty .3

Tammy rated the brands as follows:

portability sound projection warranty


Brand A 6 8 7
Brand B 9 6 8
Brand C 5 9 6

Using the consumer buying matrix (p. 271), conduct a quantitative product evaluation rating for each
brand. What other factors is Tammy likely to consider when making her purchase?

Solution:
Brand A: (.1  6) + (.6  8) + (.3  7) = 7.5
Brand B: (.1  9) + (.6  6) + (.3  8) = 6.9
Brand C: (.1  5) + (.6  9) + (.3  6) = 7.7
Tammy should also consider many other factors such as store location, availability of service, brand
reputation, experience of others, and shipping costs.
LO: 8-2
Topic: Comparing Buying Alternatives.
LOD: Medium
Bloom’s tag: Application, analysis

4. Calculating the Cost of Credit. John Walters is comparing the cost of credit to the cash price of an
item. If John makes an $80 down payment and pays $34 a month for 24 months, how much more will that
amount be than the cash price of $695?
Solution: [($34  24 months) + $80] - $695 = $201
LO: 8-2
Topic: Calculating the Cost of Credit.
LOD: Medium
Bloom’s tag: Application

5. Computing Unit Prices. Calculate the unit price of each of the following items:

8-20
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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

Solution:
Motor oil 78 cents a quart
Cereal 14.5 cents an ounce
Canned fruit 6.8 cents an ounce
Facial tissue 75 cents per 100
Shampoo 23.3 cents an ounce

LO: 8-2
Topic: Computing Unit Prices.
LOD: Easy
Bloom’s tag: Application

6. Calculating the Present Value of a Consumer Purchase. What would be the net present value of a
microwave oven that costs $159 and will save you $68 a year in time and food away from home? Assume
an average return on your savings of 4 percent for five years.
Solution: $68  4.452 (PV of a series of amounts, 4%, 5 years) - $159 = $143.74
LO: 8-2
Topic: Calculating the Present Value of a Consumer Purchase
LOD: Medium
Bloom’s tag: Application

7. Comparing Automobile Purchases. Based on financial and opportunity costs, which of the following
do you believe would be the wiser purchase?
Vehicle 1: A three-year-old car with 45,000 miles, costing $8,700, and requiring $585 of immediate
repairs.
Vehicle 2: A five-year-old car with 62,000 miles, costing $6,500, and requiring $960 of immediate
repairs.

Solution: Students can make a case for either vehicle since #1 has lower mileage, is newer, and
requires fewer repairs. However, some people may find #2 more appealing due to the lower initial
costs.
LO: 8-2
Topic: Comparing Automobile Purchases
LOD: Medium
Bloom’s tag: Analysis

8-21
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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

8. Calculating Motor Vehicle Operating Costs. Using Sheet 38 in the Personal Financial Planner,
calculate the approximate yearly operating cost of the following vehicle.

Annual depreciation $2,500 Annual mileage 13,200


Current year’s loan interest $650 Miles per gallon 24
Insurance $680 Average gasoline price $3.68 per gallon
License and registration fees $65 Oil changes/repairs $370
Parking/tolls $420

Solution:
Fixed Ownership Costs Variable Operating Costs
$2,500 depreciation $2,024 Gasoline
650 interest on loan 370 oil/repairs
680 Insurance 420 parking/tolls
65 License/registration $2,814 total variable costs
$3,895 total fixed costs
Total costs $6,709 divided by 13,200 miles equals 50.8 cents cost per mile.

LO: 8-2
Topic: Calculating Motor Vehicle Operating Costs
LOD: Medium
Bloom’s tag: Application

9. Buying versus Leasing a Motor Vehicle. Based on the following, calculate the costs of buying and of
leasing a motor vehicle.

Purchase Costs Leasing Costs

Down payment $1,500 Security deposit $500

Loan payment $450 for 48 months Lease payment $450 for 36 months

Estimated value at end of loan $4,000 End of lease charges $600

Opportunity cost interest rate: 4 percent

Solution:
Purchase: $1,500 + [450 × 48] – 4,000 + [1,500 × .04 × 4] = $19,340
Lease: [450 × 36] + 600 + [500 × .04 × 3] = $16,860
LO: 8-2
Topic: Buying vs. Leasing a Motor Vehicle.
LOD: Medium
Bloom’s tag: Application

8-22
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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

FINANCIAL PLANNING ACTIVITIES (p. 295)

1. Analyzing Influences on Consumer Buying. Use advertisements, online articles, and personal
observations to describe the economic, social, and personal factors influencing purchases of people in the
following life situations: (a) a retired person; (b) a single parent with children ages 5 and 9; (c) a dual-
income couple with no children; (d) a person with a dependent child and a dependent parent.

Ask students to identify and explain differences in buying influences for different life situations.

2. Comparing Consumer Information Sources. Obtain online reviews to evaluate and compare different
brands of a product. Also obtain information on the product from people who sell the item and those who
have recently purchased it. Compare the information received from these sources.

Product reviews and ratings can provide helpful insight into a purchase. However, these results can
sometimes be different from those of individual consumers. Have students report on their findings of
differences between what was found online and what other consumers experienced with the product.

3. Researching Consumer Purchases. Using the consumer buying matrix (p. 271), analyze a consumer
purchase you plan to make sometime in the future. What factors affected the selection of the attributes
and weights you chose for this purchase analysis?

This assignment will require students to assess the importance of various attributes when making a major
purchase.

4. Comparing Used Cars. Use Sheet 35 in the Personal Financial Planner to compare different sources
of used motor vehicles.

This activity can involve use of advertisements and an online search rather than visits to used car sales
locations. Students should be able to point out economic, operational, and other factors that influence
costs of vehicles from different sources.

5. Evaluating Motor Vehicle Leases. Use Sheet 36 in the Personal Financial Planner to compare the
costs of buying and leasing a motor vehicle.

This activity will allow students to better understand the sources and costs of leasing a motor vehicle.
Encourage students to use dealer visits, advertisements, and websites to obtain information for this
activity.

6. Identifying and Solving Consumer Problems. Conduct online research to determine the most common
sources of consumer complaints. Interview someone who has had a consumer complaint. What was the
basis of the complaint? What actions did the person take? Was the complaint resolved in a satisfactory
manner?

Have students report their findings in a brief presentation or video dramatization.

7. Comparing Legal Services. Prepare a survey of legal services available to students and others in your
community. Use Sheet 39 in the Personal Financial Planner to compare the fees and services provided
by lawyers and other sources of legal assistance.

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Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

Some colleges have legal services available for students, this alternative should be considered along with
others.

FINANCIAL PLANNING CASE

Online Car Buying (p. 295)

1. Based on Mackenzie’s experiences, what benefits and drawbacks are associated with online car
buying?

While ease and convenience may be associated with online car buying, uncertainty of vehicle
performance and dealer reputation may be a concern.

2. What additional actions might Mackenzie consider before buying a motor vehicle?

Talk to people who have purchased vehicles through various online sources; research local dealers
who actively participate in the online buying process.

3. What do you consider to be the benefits and drawbacks of shopping online for motor vehicles and
other items?

While student answers will vary, encourage students to communicate their knowledge related to
online shopping.

CONTINUING CASE

Making Purchasing Decisions (p. 297)


Questions
1. What strategies should they use to research and purchase a used car and other high dollar items
such as furniture?

Although student responses may vary, some good answers to this question are:
 They should identify their needs and gather relevant product information.
 They should then compare product features such as the vehicle options.
 They should then compare various sources of the product such as new-car dealers, used-car
dealers, individuals selling their own cars, auctions, used-car superstores, or online used-car
businesses.
 Then they should determine a fair purchase price by reviewing various sources such as
newspaper ads, Kelley Blue Book, and Edmund’s Used Car Prices.
 Then they should negotiate to obtain a lower price.
 Lastly, they should determine if paying cash is appropriate or if financing is appropriate.
Various sources of financing are available to choose from such as loans from banks, credit
unions, consumer finance companies, and other financial institutions.

2. What items should Shelby and Mark consider a part of the real cost of owning a car?

Although student responses may vary, some good answers to this question are:

8-24
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Personal Finance Kapoor 11th Edition Solutions Manual
Chapter 08 - Consumer Purchasing Strategies and Legal Protection

 Depreciation
 Insurance
 Interest on the auto loan
 License and registration fees
 Taxes and other fees
 Oil, tires, and other maintenance or repair costs
 Gasoline
 Parking and toll fees

3. Explain how Shelby and Mark might use the following Personal Financial Planner sheets (Used-
Car Purchase Comparison and Buying versus Leasing an Automobile).

Although student responses may vary, some good answers to this question are:
a. Used-Car Purchase Comparison
They can use this form to compare the condition of used vehicles they are considering from
various sources.
b. Buying versus Leasing an Automobile
They can use this form to compare the total cost of leasing a car to the total cost of
purchasing a car.

DAILY SPENDING DIARY (p. 297)

This activity can assist students with an ability to reduce unplanned buying and to better achieve long-
term financial goals.

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