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Crookston is a small city in Minnesota with the distinction of being named one of the safest cities in the state. It's home to the University of Minnesota Crookston, and it offers residents and visitors many activities such as fishing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating. The Crookston area also has many recreational facilities where you can either watch or play sports. more 1. Crookston Sports Center Image via Flickr by Union_College The Crookston Sports Center is home to the Crookston Pirates hockey team. The 87,000-square-foot facility has three arenas, an 800-square-foot concession area, and seating for over 1,200. The event arena hosts the Pirates hockey games, but there is also the Blue Arena for kids' hockey and the Gold Arena with a turf field for soccer and other turf sports. The sport center is open to the public so everyone can enjoy getting active. Make sure to check the schedule for open skate times or to try your hand at curling. There is also a golf simulator so you can get some practice swings in, even when there is snow on the ground. Walking is a great way to get your exercise, and the Crookston Sports Center has a walking program so you can do it all year round with an annual membership of only $25. Walking is permitted on the upper level during open hours as long as there are no paid or high school events. The upper-level track is 1/4 mile, so four trips around the event rink and the practice rinks will get you to a mile. If you just go around the event rink, you will hit a mile after eight laps. 2. Minakwa Golf Course and Driving Range The Minakwa Golf Course is a nine-hole golf course on the northwest edge of Crookston. It's a very well-maintained course with a driving range and pro shop. This course is home to the high school golf team and is a popular spot for young local golfers. The Minakwa Golf Course hosts several tournaments throughout the season, including some fundraising events and junior tournaments. The annual Fourth of July tournament is always fun, and the Junior Golf Tournament is always a popular event for kids of all ages. There's even a group for players 8 and under at this tournament. They play four holes, and their registration fee includes lunch. Minakwa also has event nights throughout the season, such as Couple's Fun Night with dinner and golf. 3. University of Minnesota Crookston Campus The Crookston Eagles play their home games at the University of Crookston campus. You can stop by any season to watch your favorite sport. The sport venues include: Lysaker Gymnasium Lysaker Gymnasium is a beautiful gym that hosts basketball and volleyball. It has three full-size courts and can seat up to 2,200 people for games. The facility is also a premier venue for northwest Minnesota sports events and brings section basketball tournaments to the area every year. Ed Widseth Field The Ed Widseth Field is the former field for the University of Minnesota Crookston football team and is now the home of the Crookston Pirates football team. It's also used as a practice space for other Golden Eagles teams. Minnesota Crookston Baseball Field and Softball Field The baseball and softball fields sit next to each other on the south side of the university campus. The baseball field not only serves as the home field for the college teams but also host tournaments for the high school and American Legion baseball. This field has received several upgrades over the years, including a new irrigation system, a windscreen, a press box, and a team lounge with custom-built lockers. Minnesota Crookston Soccer Field Make sure to catch a soccer game at the Minnesota Crookston Soccer Field. It sits to the east of the Ed Widseth Field and hosts the home games for the women's soccer team. 4. City of Crookston Parks The City of Crookston has 22 different parks with all kinds of open space and facilities for playing and watching sports. Head out any time of year to get in on the action. Some of the parks you can enjoy include: The Highland Park Complex The Highland Park Complex includes 40 acres of sports fields and courts. It has a baseball field, a skate park, five tennis courts, horseshoe courts, a basketball court, and six softball diamonds. The complex hosts several softball, baseball, and tennis tournaments throughout the year and provides a home field for many men's and women's softball leagues. You can stop by to cheer on your player or get involved and join a league. American Legion baseball, Babe Ruth baseball, and girls fast-pitch softball teams and leagues also use this complex for their practices and games. The tennis complex hosts lessons for kids and adults along with serving as a place for everyone to enjoy recreational tennis. It even has push-button lighting if you want to play after dark. Carman Park Carman Park has soccer fields, volleyball courts, and play structures for the kids. It also has a rentable shelter and lots of green space. Central Park Head to Central Park on Central Park Drive to play disc golf. This is also a great park if you want open green space to let kids play their own games. Crookston City Pool The City of Crookston now owns the Crookston City Pool, and it not only provides open swim times for those who want to get some laps in for exercise but also hosts swim meets. The Pirates Swim team competes here if you want to stop by to see the kids race against other local teams. When you need reliable transportation so you can get to all of these Crookston area sports venues and events, make sure to stop by Rydell Outlet Center to find a used car or truck. We always have plenty in stock, and there's no better place in the Grand Forks area to find good quality used cars at prices you can afford. Give us a call or stop by to take a walk through our lot to see what we have.

Yes, a 500 credit score will still qualify you for a car loan. However, credit scores affect the types of loans you are eligible for, as well as interest rates, loan amounts, and more. If you have a credit score that needs improving, it won't stop you from getting a car loan, only the terms. Let's take a closer look at how low credit scores impact your loan, what you can do to improve your credit quickly, and what you'll need to do to get a loan even with less than perfect credit. more How Do Credit Bureaus Calculate Credit Scores? Image via Flickr by cafecredit via CC BY 2.0 You must first understand that to improve your credit, you must understand that credit agencies calculate your credit score using an algorithm. This algorithm factors your income, current debt, available credit, payment history, and more to determine your credit score. Lenders use your credit score as the basis for calculating the potential you represent to pay a loan in full and on time. Borrowers with a lower credit score represent a higher risk of on-time car payments. Therefore, borrowers with lower scores incur higher interest rates to offset the lender's risk. Credit scores fall within the range of 300 to 850 points. The credit bureaus refer to scores ranging from 300 to 579 points as Poor, a rating that 16% of Americans tend to have. With a credit score between 580 and 669 points, you have a Fair credit score, as do 17% of Americans. Meanwhile, 21% of Americans have a Good credit score within 670 and 739 points, while 25% have a Very Good credit score between 740 and 799 points. Finally, those with a score of 800 points or higher have an Excellent credit rating. Improve Your Credit Score Americans tend to have an average score of 710. That said, over 20% of all auto loans are extended to those with credit scores under 600. So if you have no credit or poor credit, you might not have to do much to improve your score and get a car loan. Experts recommend checking your credit score often. Creditors report to the bureaus every month, which means your score changes every month. If you continue to make payments on time, your score will rise. Conversely, if you have late payments or other derogatory marks against you, your score will drop. Often, people have errors on their credit reports for instances that don't belong to them. Disputing these errors and getting them removed will quickly raise your credit score. Your debt to income ratio factors into your score. Financial advisors recommend keeping your debt to income ratio below 30%. That means if you have an annual income of $40,000 you should carry no more than $12,000 in debt. In this situation, if you could get your debt down to $8,000 you'd have a 20% ratio which can raise your credit score considerably. For instance, if you were to receive a $4,000 tax refund in April, you can pay down your debt to increase your credit score rather than spend it on a new television and living room furniture. A higher credit score can lower your interest rate on a car loan saving you thousands of dollars each year. Another trick financial experts suggest is to get another credit card, which sounds counter-intuitive, but actually works. Your available credit also factors into your credit score. If you have little or no available credit, this lowers your credit score. Getting another credit card will increase your available credit and increase your credit score. Hard credit inquiries have a temporary negative impact on your credit score, so applying for a credit card will lower your score in the near term. Most of these inquiries fall off your report within months, but some take over a year. Hence, if you want a quick credit score increase, adding a new card might not help. Get Pre-Qualified for a Loan Getting pre-qualified for a loan only requires a soft credit inquiry, which means you can shop around for loans and get competing offers without impacting your score. It would help if you shopped for a loan like you would anything else you consider buying. You wouldn't pay full price for a pair of pants when you can get them somewhere else at 50% off. Why would you pay more for a car loan? Shopping around for the best rates only makes good financial sense. At Rydell Outlet Center, you can quickly get pre-approved for a loan using our online financing application. Then, in minutes, you'll have your answer and can begin shopping for your dream car, truck, or SUV. Consider Getting a Co-Signer Getting a relative or friend to co-sign for your car loan can save you money. If you have no credit history, a co-signer might be necessary. A co-signer will put their creditworthiness to work on your behalf because they will be responsible should you fail to repay the loan. In addition, by getting a co-signer, you may qualify for a larger loan, giving you more buying power. Speak with Our Finance Department Our finance managers are experts at finding loans that fit your budget regardless of your credit. We've cultivated relationships with many local North Dakota and Minnesota lenders. Many have programs in place to support buyers with little or no credit. We leverage these relationships every day to get our customers a loan that works. After a quick assessment of your financial situation, our team will determine which loans work best for you. Then, we'll give you several loans to choose from, giving you the information to make the best decision. At Rydell Outlet Center, we understand your credit score doesn't necessarily reflect your commitment to paying your bills. Things can happen in life, like losing a job or medical situations arise. These events can negatively impact your score, but we believe everyone deserves the right to own a car. We invite you to contact our finance department online or stop by to discuss your situation. Our team of experts can find you a loan that makes sense for your situation and get you behind the wheel of that car, truck, or SUV you've always wanted.

The University of Minnesota Crookston (UMC) is one of five campuses of the University of Minnesota System. It was founded as a two-year college in 1966, and it started offering four-year degrees in 1993. The campus covers 108 acres, and it has about 900 students. Around an additional 900 students learn online as well. This university's slogan is "Small Campus. Big Degree." It provides individual attention and mentorship that puts its students ahead of the competition. Continue reading to learn more about this university's academic programs, athletics, and amenities and the things to do nearby. more Academics The University of Minnesota Crookston offers majors in four departments. Agriculture and Natural Resources includes agricultural education, business, communication, and systems management.  You can also choose agronomy, animal science, environmental science, equine business management, golf and turf management, or natural resources. Many internships are available in summer, especially in agriculture and natural resources. The Humanities, Social Sciences, and Education department offers courses in communication, criminal justice, English, early childhood education, elementary education, and English education. In the Math, Science, and Technologies department, you can earn a degree in biology, applied health, health sciences, environmental sciences, exercise science and wellness, IT management, medical laboratory science, or software engineering. The Business department includes classes in accounting, finance, health management, international business, manufacturing management, quality management, marketing, and sport and recreation management. The University of Minnesota Crookston has been part of US News & World Report's Best College list since 1998, and people who attend have some of the lowest amounts of student debt in the state. Niche also called UMC one of the top public universities in Minnesota. Athletics Image via Flickr by infomastern via CC BY-SA 2.0 This university is a member of the NCAA Division II Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). Its nickname is the Golden Eagles, and the school colors are maroon and gold. Widseth Field is an outdoor venue with seats for 2,000 people, and 3,000 seats are available at the indoor Lysaker Gym. The new Charles H. Casey Equine Arena is available for horseback riding. Student-athletes can participate in 11 varsity sports. Men can compete in trap shooting, cross-country, golf, basketball, baseball, and ACHA hockey. Women can try cross-country, volleyball, soccer, golf, basketball, softball, tennis, equestrian events, and trap shooting. Athletic trainers collaborate with doctors to create a safe environment for student-athletes, and the main athletic training room has a whirlpool tub and an ultrasound machine. Water, ice, cups, towels, and taping and treatment tables are available at games and practices. Student-athletes often participate in community service and special events for the community. Amenities The University of Minnesota Crookston might be small, but it has plenty of convenient amenities. All on-campus students and faculty receive laptops. About 600 students live in on-campus residence halls and student apartments, and others live in nearby off-campus housing. You can choose from five dorms on campus, and the Sargeant Student Center is a perfect place to study or hang out with friends. It has several meeting spaces and study areas along with a big-screen LCD TV, pool tables, a foosball table, an air hockey table, free Wi-Fi, and vending machines. You can also pick up free copies of the Crookston Daily Times and the Valley Shopper or check out a variety of outdoor and recreational equipment. Microwaves and refrigerators are available for commuter students. There's also a bookstore with a large collection of textbooks, reference books, and volumes on more general subjects. You can also purchase office supplies, art supplies, computer software and accessories, and a variety of Golden Eagle merchandise. The Sargeant Student Center is open during the academic year on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., on Saturdays from noon to 3 p.m., and Sundays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. During summer, it's open on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Campus Mall is a large, green space with trees, paths, and flower gardens. It's ideal for a short walk between classes, an outdoor concert, and other events. You can also have a picnic at the Harris A. Peterson Gazebo. The two-floor library holds about 40,000 volumes, including books, newspapers, journals, magazines, pamphlets, audio recordings, and videos. The University Wellness and Recreation facility covers 36,070 square feet, and it has a two-court gym with a suspended jogging and walking track, locker rooms, and a classroom. The high-tech cardio and weight machines can connect to your smartphone to help you track your fitness progress. The gym has markings and equipment for several activities, including basketball, volleyball, futsal or indoor soccer, tennis, team handball, ping pong, badminton, boxing, MMA training, and indoor archery. There's also a multipurpose room that has a database of more than 125 prerecorded exercise routines. The room is also ideal for group activities or exercises such as yoga, aerobics, Zumba, and dance. Things to Do Nearby When you're not attending class, there are a variety of fun activities available near Crookston. The Red Lake River surrounds Crookston Central Park, and it has a campsite with showers, a boat ramp, a fishing pier, and a nine-hole Frisbee golf course. In winter, you can go sledding, cross-country skiing, or ice skating. The Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge is the biggest prairie-wetland restoration in the United States, and it's only about 10 miles east of Crookston. You can go hiking and view many different types of wildlife, including waterfowl, sandhill cranes, swans, shorebirds, prairie sparrows, and more. You can also visit the Highland Complex Splash Park and Skate Park or the Grand I & II Movie Theatre. It's one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the United States. A few great restaurants nearby include Happy Joe's Pizza and Ice Cream, Eagle's Nest Grill, and Drafts Sports Bar and Grill. At the University of Minnesota Crookston, you can get an excellent education that will prepare you for your career. Have you visited or attended this university? What were your favorite parts? Contact us at the Rydell Outlet Center and let us know what you think.

There's no way of getting around the fact that if your car has a lot of miles under its belt, it becomes less attractive to potential buyers if you're trying to sell it. But that doesn't mean selling your car is impossible when it has high mileage. On the contrary, there are several things you can do to make the sales process easier and secure the best deal possible. more Clean Your Car Image via Flickr by Rutger van der Maar via CC BY 2.0 No matter how well you look after your car, it's going to look used after 10 or 12 years of driving. Potential buyers won't expect a used vehicle with high mileage to look as good as new. However, you can impress them by at least giving the exterior a wash, vacuuming inside the cabin, and removing any trash or debris from the vehicle's storage areas and cubbies. A clean, well-kept car can make a good first impression on a potential buyer, which may encourage them to give you a fair offer. It also lets them know that you took good care of your vehicle, which certainly won't harm your chances of getting a good deal. Conduct Basic Repairs Whether or not you decide to follow this step will largely depend on the condition of your vehicle. If your car is in decent working order but has a few problems, like a damaged brake light or worn brake pads, paying a little extra money to have these repairs completed is probably a good idea. Potential buyers will be more attracted to a car that they can get into and start driving right away without having to worry about repair bills. In addition, you have a stronger case to ask for a higher price if you can honestly tell an interested party that everything about the car is in working order. If your car is in poor condition and requires a considerable amount of work, you may decide that spending a lot of cash on major repairs, like resolving mechanical problems, isn't worthwhile. That's not necessarily a problem, because there are buyers out there who may still be interested in your vehicle. For example, someone may be happy to pay for the repairs if it means they get a cheap car. Alternatively, you may find a dealership that will buy the car off you to repair and sell at a wholesale auction. The only thing you need to bear in mind if you do decide to sell a vehicle that requires a lot of work is that you'll have to accept a low price. Prepare a Description for Your Advertisement If you're selling your car privately, a detailed description of its condition and features will make a good impression on potential buyers. For example, you can detail the condition of the engine, interior, and exterior, any special features about the vehicle, and any repairs you've carried out. In addition, it can help to provide several pictures of both the vehicle's interior and exterior. If you include a good amount of information in your posting, it's more likely to attract interest. Set a Realistic Asking Price Before you complete your advertisement, spend some time researching a realistic asking price for your car. You can do this by using one of the many car valuation tools that are available online. All you need to do is provide some basic information about your car, such as the year it was made, the make and model, and its mileage. Alternatively, you can take a look at recent postings for vehicles similar to yours. Once you have an idea of what the retail price for your vehicle is, you'll need to think about any specific issues with your car that may require you to adjust your expectations. For instance, if you have a 12-year-old Nissan valued around $4,000, you may have to reduce your asking price to $3,500 if the buyer will need to perform some modest repairs after buying it. Making sure the asking price in your posting is reasonable is important because it will make your offer seem more credible. Buyers of used cars can do their own research into the vehicles they're considering, including yours. If your asking price is too high, they're likely to find that out pretty quickly and look elsewhere for a better deal. Decide Whether to Sell Privately or to a Dealer Selling a car privately can require a significant investment of time and effort. In addition to following the steps we've outlined above, you'll also need to respond to inquiries about your posts, set up meetings with potential buyers, and negotiate with them. Many inquiries may turn out to be dead ends, delaying the process further. One option worth considering if this is a concern for you is selling your used car to an auto dealership. Even if your sedan or SUV has a lot of miles on its odometer, you can still find a dealership to purchase it. Dealerships like ours with a large inventory of used vehicles can offer you a fair price for your car, take care of any repair or maintenance issues, and sell it on to a new buyer. While selling to an auto dealership probably means you'll end up receiving a lower price than what you could get on the private market, you benefit from a hassle-free process that can often be taken care of during one quick visit to our showroom. Our friendly team of auto experts here at the Rydell Outlet Center in Grand Forks will be delighted to help you trade in your used car. In addition to receiving a cash offer from us, you can deduct the value of your used vehicle from our great range of pre-owned cars. That way, you can get behind the wheel of a car, SUV, or truck for a reasonable price. If you want to get an idea of how much your used car may be worth, try out our valuation tool. alternatively, contact us today if you have any questions about the trade-in process or our fleet of used cars.

Having fun as a family is not always easy, as everyone has different preferences. At this point, you may have to compromise and look for places you every member of the family can enjoy together. If you have children, you know how challenging it can be to keep them occupied with fun activities. If you are in Grafton, North Dakota, there are several places that you can have fun with your family. Whether you like indoor or outdoor activities, there is something for everyone. more Fun Activities to Do with Your Family in Grafton, North Dakota Whether it is just a weekend out or a week of family fun, you will always find something to do with your family in Grafton. Below you will find a list of places to visit and activities to do. Explore the Local Cuisine Sharing a meal with your family strengthens your bond. When it comes to food, Grafton has you covered. There are many restaurants available to cater to all your culinary needs. If you crave Mexican food, you can visit the Azteca Mexican Grill and satisfy your craving for Mexican food. Getting a brain freeze is fun when you are with your family. You can enjoy having ice cream together. You can visit Three Star Dairy Inc. for ice cream, or if you love frozen yogurt, you can go to TCBY Frozen Yogurt. Grafton Fudge and Ice Cream is the one-stop shop for your sweet tooth. You can have all the ice cream, chocolates, and candies you want under one roof. When it is colder, the adults can also enjoy hot coffee while the children drink a cup of hot cocoa. Visit the Fair Everyone loves the fair. There are so many fun things you can do there. You don't have to worry about food, as there are delicacies all around. Plus, you can play games and win prizes that can be great keepsakes. A visit to a fair is not expensive, so it is something that you can comfortably do as a family on a budget while keeping kids of all ages entertained and well-fed. Ice Skating If you love ice skating, you can enjoy visiting the rinks in Grafton Parks & Recreation and enjoy both indoor and outdoor rinks. Visit the parks and recreation page to get information on the schedules. You can watch ice hockey and have delicious food when there is a game. If you visit Leistikow Park's Skating Rink, you can play on the ice and visit the warming house afterward. Visit Parks There are several parks in Grafton you can visit that offer several attractions. For instance, you can visit Icelandic State Park that is home to several historical buildings. You can enjoy going on a cross-country ski or snowshoe during winter. When the weather is warmer, you can also go fishing, swimming, and picnicking while enjoying the nature trails. The Gunlogson Nature Preserve is the state's first dedicated nature preserve. If you like nature, you will enjoy seeing different birds, plants, and wildlife species. You can also visit the Turtle River State Park along the Turtle River. The activities available here are similar to those at Icelandic State Park. Moreover, you can enjoy sledding and mountain biking. If you love fly-fishing, you can try fishing for trout in the river. There are campgrounds and cabin rentals available for use if your family enjoys camping as well. Visit Grand Forks If you don't mind the drive, you can go to Grand Forks. There are many things you can do there, such as swimming, shopping, and dining. Check out the Grand Forks Website to learn about other fun activities for your family. Here are some of the highlights of Grand Forks: Splasher's of the South Seas If you are a water person, you will love Splasher's of the South Sea. This is an indoor water park that has a river, water slides, and other awesome features. This water park is the best place to spend your time during hot summer days. During winter, you can also keep warm, as the water park is heated. Columbia and Grand Cities Mall Columbia Mall is the place you can shop till you drop. There are several specialty stores in one place. If you go to Grand Cities Mall, you will find several local businesses. Go Bowling Nothing is more interesting than a friendly family bowling competition. You can visit BowlMOR Lanes and hit some pins, then enjoy a meal at J & H Lanes afterwards. To locate other bowling alleys in Grafton, North Dakota, visit the Grafton, North Dakota Bowling Directory. Art Galleries and Museums You can have a look at art galleries in Grafton and search for other artistic events. While you're there, you also have the chance to enjoy street art and see showcased art at local galleries. One of the places to visit is the Artsplace or Younggren Photography. You show your creative side by trying to make art and display it at local galleries. The North Dakota Museum of Art brings local, regional, and international art to your doorstep. You can enrich your heritage by learning the history of the art displayed. Amusements Several attractions are child-friendly and fun. You can kart as a family at Sports Bubble or Minot Motorsports. Here, you'll enjoy racing with your family, and you can find all the racing gear you need at Minot Motorsports. These amusements are for the adventurous, but safety measures are in place to keep drivers safe. There are so many things you can do in Grafton, North Dakota. All you need to do is pick your favorite fun activity and roll with it. Whether it is food or entertainment, Grafton will sort out all your family fun time needs. If you have any favorites, reach out and let us know. And if you need a car to drive around in Grafton on your family fun day, contact us today and we will gladly help you out.

Need a little help making plans for tonight? Look no further than this list of clubs, bars, and restaurants in Grafton and the surrounding areas. From casual bars to lively clubs to luxurious lounges, let us help you find the perfect place to spend the evening. more Last Chance Bar and Grill Image via Flickr by Sam Howzit via CC BY 2.0 Don't miss the Last Chance Bar and Grill, located at 118 East Fifth Street in Grafton. The bar and grill serves a range of beers, cocktails, and wines as well as an assortment of food items, including chicken wings, cheeseburgers, and sandwiches. It's open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Friday and from noon to 2 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Last Chance offers both dine-in and carry-out food orders. Feel free to grab a table or find a place at the bar to enjoy your night out. The Club Bar Check out the Club Bar, located about twenty minutes from Grafton in Park River. With the motto, “No Bad Days,” the bar strives to provide a good time to everyone who steps through its doors. A blackjack dealer is there on Saturdays and Sundays, and gaming machines are available for play throughout the week. The bar's jukebox provides a little good, old-fashioned fun, and the drinks and food are top-notch. This locally owned establishment hosts a Vikings party celebrating the NFL's Minnesota Vikings every Sunday, making it a must-visit during football season. Extra End Sports Bar Enjoy the Extra End Sports Bar, a great place to grab a beer and watch a game. Located at 15 East Fifth Street in Grafton, Extra End serves a variety of beers, wines, and cocktails. For dinner, choose from burgers, tacos, pork tenderloin, and more. It's open from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. seven days a week. Strand Twin Theater If you'd like to spend the evening out but aren't in the mood for drinks and dinner, try the Strand Twin Theater. Built in 1946, the Strand is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and shows different movies throughout the month. Check its social media pages to see what's playing. The Frosty Fox Spend the evening at the Frosty Fox, a bar, restaurant, and event space located at 43rd East Eighth Street in Grafton. Started as the Legion Club in 1968, the establishment has grown into a world-class facility that's perfect for a fun night out. The appetizer menu features jalapeno poppers, onion rings, potato skins, and more. For dinner, choose from items such as fried walleye, slow-roasted prime rib, lobster, ribeyes, and ground beef steak. All dinner entrees are served with a side and include a trip to the salad bar. The drink menu is extensive and includes a variety of draft beers, specialty cocktails, and wines. The Frosty Fox is closed on Sundays, and its hours vary during the rest of the week, so check the website or call before you go. Alexander House Motel Located on the west side of Park River, the Alexander House Motel is a full-service restaurant, lounge, and motel. The drink menu features a variety of beers, wines, and cocktails. For dinner, the restaurant showcases an appetizer menu containing items like breaded pickle slices and jalapeno cheese curds while its main course menu offers petite sirloin, grilled shrimp skewers, and chicken kiev. Consider staying the night and spending the next day exploring Park River. The Loft The Loft, a neighborhood bar in downtown Grand Forks, is only a 45-minute drive from Grafton. Serving traditional cocktails, liquor and whiskey shots, and a huge variety of draft beers, The Loft offers a fun nightlife experience for both small and large groups. You'll find a pool table, shuffleboard court, bubble hockey, and onsite gaming. If you prefer to sit back, relax and watch a game, The Loft has over 40 HD televisions. The food menu isn't huge, but it features several delicious classics like garlic cheesy bread, beer-battered fries, southern-style chicken tenders, cheeseburgers, and wings. For something a little different, start your night at the bar, then take the Loft Party Bus to a University of North Dakota hockey game. The bus runs to all the university's hockey games as well as to concerts and other events held on campus. Book online or give them a call to make a reservation for the bus. The Loft is open from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Friday and from noon to 2 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Level 10 Plan a night out at Level 10, a premiere nightclub in downtown Grand Forks. It features live DJs, a dance floor, and advanced sound and lighting systems. Order one of their signature drinks, such as the Key Lime Pie or Plum Cross martini or enjoy a draft beer. Level 10 is open from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Sky's Cloud 9 Lounge Experience fine dining at Sky's Cloud 9 Lounge in Grand Forks. Named the Most Romantic Restaurant in North Dakota in 2018 by FoodandWine.com, the lounge boasts private seating for a quiet, intimate experience as well as traditional tables and chairs for larger groups. You'll enjoy an extensive beer menu as well as several signature cocktails and a variety of fine wines. For food options, choose from an array of appetizers, including sauteed mushrooms and lump crab cake. Sandwiches and hamburgers are also served. If you're in the mood for a more elaborate meal, have dinner in the dining room before making your way to the lounge for drinks. Sky's Lounge is open from 4 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and from 4 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday with a daily happy hour from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. We hope this list of places to enjoy the nightlife in and around Grafton helps you have a great time during your next night out. If you know of a place we've overlooked, please let us know so we can add it. We look forward to hearing from you!

If you've been denied a car loan from traditional vendors, don't give up just yet.  You might not realize it, but many companies market loans specifically to those buyers with poor or even no credit. So, if you need a new car and your credit score isn't where you want or need it to be, you have options. We've put together the following list of lenders with a breakdown of loans offered to help you find a lender that will work with you. We've also given several definitions of terms you should understand before you begin shopping. more Important Loan Definitions Image via Flickr by EpicTop10.com via CC BY 2.0 The following includes standard terms you'll come across as you shop for a loan. It's essential that you understand their meaning, as they directly impact your loan. Loan Term - This refers to the length of time it will take to pay off your loan. Lenders usually express these in months. Car loans can run as few as 24 months and as long as 84 months. Rarely will you see a term longer than seven years. When shopping for auto loans, especially on a new vehicle, financial experts recommend keeping the loan length as short as possible. New cars depreciate quickly, and with a longer-term, you can find yourself upside down or underwater, which means you owe more on the vehicle than it's worth. Soft Credit Pulls - As you shop for a loan, many companies will run a soft pull on your credit report to begin the process. A soft pull allows the lender to look at a portion of your credit report without affecting your credit score. From this, they make a pre-qualification loan offer to you. This prequalification offer doesn't guarantee you a loan, but if the remainder of your credit falls in line with the portion the lender looked at, you likely will get approved. Hard Credit Pulls - A hard credit inquiry pulls your entire credit report and does impact your credit score. Try and avoid a hard credit pull until you're happy with the terms offered on a specific loan you've been pre-qualified for first. Online Marketplace Lenders Searching for a car loan can take time. By using an online marketplace, they search out loans for you. You'll get multiple lenders making pre-qualified offers from which to choose. Below we've listed several for you to consider. Autopay - You'll get a wide range of auto loans, from traditional new car loans to used car loans and even lease buyout loans. You'll receive offers from conventional lenders, actual dealerships, and private party loans. After pre-qualifying, you'll get estimated rates and terms without affecting your credit score. Autopay also provides a wide range of loan amounts, from $2,500 up to $100,000. In addition, you'll get access to additional products through Autopay, like gap insurance and service contracts. Autopay also allows co-applicants, which can help you qualify for better rates and higher loan amounts. MyAutoLoan - With MyAutoLoan, you'll get up to four offers in minutes after a soft credit pull prequalification. MyAutoLoan provides a wide variety of loans on new and used vehicles, refinance loans, and lease buyouts from traditional lenders and private parties. Your loan must be for a minimum of $8,000 and the car must be ten years old or newer. Terms run as high as 72 months through MyAutoLoan lenders, depending on your eligibility. Eligibility requirements include a minimum income of $21,000, a FICO score of 575 or higher, and be 18 years of age. MyAutoLoan offers loans to those with a bankruptcy listed on their credit report, provided it was discharged or dismissed. One-Stop Shopping Lenders The ability to shop for a loan and a car in one place can make the process easier, which sounds very similar to a car dealership. Yet, if car dealerships have turned you down, you can still find companies online that will find you a loan and a car in one place. Carvana - At Carvana, you get access to their inventory of cars where you can pick up your vehicle once you receive loan approval through their network of vending machines. You can easily pre-qualify with a soft credit pull and begin shopping online. Carvana's prequalification expires in 45 days, while other lenders' pre-qualifying offers expire in 30 days, giving you additional time to shop. Carvana's eligibility requirements include a $4,000 minimum annual income, which helps many low-income buyers get a loan. Carvana won't write a loan to those with an active bankruptcy or allow co-applicants. You only have one loan type through Carvana, and you must purchase a vehicle from their inventory. If you don't like the terms of the loan or the types of cars they have in their vending machines, you should look elsewhere. Vroom - Another online retailer, Vroom, provides you with a loan and a vehicle in one online visit. Vroom doesn't have vending machines where you pick up your car. Instead, they will deliver your vehicle to you with a modest delivery charge. They offer multiple loan types and from various lenders. You can trade in your old car as well, providing you more buying power. The Truth About Bad Credit Loans Millions of buyers may avail of car loans if they don't want to cash out for a vehicle outright. If you have good credit, you will qualify for a lower interest rate. As your credit score gets lower, however, your interest rate increases. You may also find fewer lenders willing to write loans to buyers with bad credit because of the higher risk. Experts recommend improving your credit before applying for a car loan, but it can take anywhere from one to six months to see significant improvement. If you must buy a car sooner, be prepared to pay a higher interest rate. Higher rates raise your monthly payments. Extending the loan term will offset this and lower your monthly payment, but you run the genuine risk of going upside down on your loan. If you extend the length, be sure to cover yourself with gap insurance and a vehicle service plan. At Rydell Outlet Center, we understand the challenge you face in buying a car with bad credit. That's why we have programs in place specifically designed for those with poor credit or no credit. We also have an expansive inventory of vehicles to fit any budget and lifestyle. Go ahead and get pre-qualified online and begin your search knowing with confidence what you can afford while you shop our selection of quality cars, trucks, and SUVs.

Leasing a car can be a great way to get behind the wheel of a top quality vehicle that meets your needs on a modest budget. To keep your monthly payments as low as possible, you can even lease a used car. Here at Rydell Outlet Center in Grand Forks, we can offer you competitive rates for used car leases. Here's a look at some of the benefits of a used car lease and some tips to secure a good lease agreement. more Leasing a Used Car May Save You Money One of the most attractive things about leasing a used car is that you can save money. The reason for this is that your lease payments are calculated based on how much the value of the car depreciates during the period of your lease. Depreciation takes place particularly rapidly with new cars. For example, cars can depreciate in value from anywhere between 20 percent and 40 percent during their first year of use alone. Depreciation occurs more slowly in used vehicles, which leaves you typically having to cover a much lower overall cost. The amount you save compared to leasing a new vehicle will depend on the make, model, and age of the car you choose. You may notice that the interest rate you pay on a used vehicle is higher than what it would be for a new car lease. However, this cost difference is generally much less than the amount of savings you make. This is because the interest rate is only a fraction of your lease payment, while the bulk of it is made up of the cost of the vehicle's depreciation. It's also typically cheaper to insure a used car than a new one. This means you may be able to reduce your car insurance payments by leasing used. You Can Opt for a Higher Quality Vehicle Due to the fact that you're saving money, you may be able to choose a higher-end used vehicle than you would if you were leasing a car fresh from the manufacturer. This may mean, for instance, that you can opt for a larger SUV that's more suited to your family's needs, or pick a higher performance sports vehicle than you had initially planned. If you're lucky enough to find your dream pre-owned car to lease, you'll still have the option to buy it for an affordable price when the lease comes to an end. Alternatively, you just need to return it to the dealership in good condition once the period of your lease expires. You Can Trust the Condition of Our Used Cars Used vehicles we offer for lease at the Rydell Outlet Center in Grand Forks are reliable and in good condition. Used vehicles offered for lease are often certified pre-owned cars and SUVs. This means that we know the ownership history and maintenance records of each vehicle. Used vehicles are also generally only eligible to be leased if they have driven less than 48,000 miles. In addition, our team of auto service technicians performs a thorough inspection of each vehicle to ensure its components are in good working order before leasing. If problems are detected, they carry out all necessary repairs. If the used vehicle you choose is still under the manufacturer's warranty, you'll continue to enjoy this protection during your lease. If the warranty has expired or it expires during your lease, you can purchase a servicing warranty to ensure that any repairs your vehicle requires can be taken care of by our service team. We strongly recommend that you do this if you're leasing a vehicle from us. If you don't have extra coverage after the warranty has expired, you could find yourself having to pay the full repair costs if something goes wrong. Deciding Whether Leasing Is Right for You Before you go ahead and agree to a lease on a used car, there are several factors to consider. The first thing is the type of car. Since not all makes and models depreciate at the same speed, leasing may not be the most affordable option for you. For example, luxury SUVs and sports cars typically retain their value well into their middle age. These types of vehicles are therefore less likely to depreciate in value significantly during your lease, which will in turn reduce the total payment you need to make. By contrast, if you want a vehicle that depreciates rapidly after its second or third year of use, you may want to consider buying it instead, since you could get a competitive price for it on the market. If you're unsure what the typical market value for a particular vehicle is, you'll be able to find many price comparison services online. Making use of these services will help you determine whether leasing or buying is your best option. You should also carefully examine the terms of your lease before agreeing to it. One term to pay special attention to is the mileage limit. While you can drive a car as much as you like when you buy it outright, lease agreements typically include a yearly mileage limit. If you go over the limit, you can be charged extra. If you know in advance that you'll need to drive more than the specified limit, consider buying a used car. However, if you're happy with the mileage limit, leasing could prove to be a cheaper option for you. Now that you know how leasing a used car works, and what the pros and cons are, you hopefully feel better placed to decide whether our used vehicle leasing offers are right for you. If you have more questions or you'd like to get the leasing process started, we'd be delighted to hear from you. Contact us here the Rydell Outlet Center. Remember that if you've decided against leasing, we can still help. We have great deals on buying used cars outright that may interest you. Check out our online inventory to learn more.

Even with many people turning to e-readers and new electronics when they want to read a new book, independent bookstores are still alive and well, especially in and around the Fargo area. If you enjoy browsing through stacks of new and used books looking for something new to read, make sure to take a look at some of the best independent bookstores in or near Fargo. You never know what you might find. more 1. Ferguson Books & More Ferguson Books & More is the West Fargo part of the Ferguson Books family. This locally owned, independent book store has one of the largest selections of used books in the region, along with new books from all different genres. Dale and Elizabeth Ferguson share a love for all kinds of books, art, and film and wanted to share their passion with the people of North Dakota. Their first store opened in Grand Forks, and they now have three locations. Ferguson Books will buy your used books if you want to sell them. Depending on the books, you might get a cash offer or a credit that works toward 25% off new products or 50% off used products. They will take any book, DVD/Bluray, or CD that you bring in legally, meaning that it is yours and not the property of someone else. You'll find the Fargo location on Sheyenne Street, and the inventory also includes toys, new and used media, and books from local authors. 2. B.D.S Books Image via Flickr by helicopterspy via CC BY 2.0 B.D.S. Books is the go-to bookstore in the Fargo/Moorehead area for used books. This independent bookstore has thousands of paperbacks and good-quality hardcover books in stock, with titles for adults and children. The staff keeps the store organized, making it easy to find what you need, or you can just enjoy browsing through all the sections. You'll also find the staff at B.D.S friendly and helpful, and they are willing to go out of their way to help you find what you need. If they don't have something you want, they all have the knowledge to recommend something similar. Stop by this bookstore for first editions from well-known authors such as Stephen King, Joe Hill, and more. You can also find some signed books if you like to collect them from your favorite authors. You'll find B.D.S. Books at 120 1st Ave. N in Fargo. 3. Books At a Fifth Stop by Books At a Fifth to find used books at 80% off the publisher's prices. This is one of Fargo's newest bookstores, and it's independently owned and operated. This small bookstore packs a lot into a small space, but everything is well organized by category and then by author's last name. If an author has several titles, then you can find their books organized by title as well. This system makes it very easy to find specific titles and browse your favorite authors. The name of this store comes from the book prices. Most are priced at one-fifth of the publisher's price. If you have books you want to bring in, you can either donate them or trade them for a store credit. The store will take interesting books that are in good condition. You'll find Books At a Fifth on 13th Ave. South, just north of the West Acres Mall in the Village West Shopping Center. 4. Zandbroz Variety Zandbroz Variety is an independent bookstore owned by brothers Jeff and Greg Danz, but it also has much more than just books. The Fargo location is the second store they opened, with the first in Sioux Falls, which opened in 1988. This unique store is a great place to browse. There are tons of books from all different genres, and it also has kitchen items, lotions, candles, and food items. There's even a great cafe tucked in the back called Dakota Soda. Spend time exploring the store, and if you need some suggestions, the staff will help you out, or you can check the Zandbroz website and their recommended reading list before you go in. It includes new and anticipated releases, along with some suggestions for kids, young adults, fiction, and nonfiction. You can also shop for items on the Zandboz website or use it to get an idea of what they have for merchandise. This store is worth the trip if you have the time to browse. It has fun and funky items such as the Amuseable stuffed toy cauliflower, a selection of games, and lots of fashion items such as purses, scarves, and reusable shopping bags. You'll find Zandbroz Variety at 420 Broadway in Fargo, and they are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 5. Eagles Nest Book Store Eagles Nest Book Store is about 35 miles from Fargo, but well worth the drive. This charming bookstore and gift shop sells new and used books, along with gift baskets, toys, candy, and more. You can find new releases from popular authors at Eagles Nest, including titles from local authors and others born and raised in North Dakota. Make sure to stop by this bookstore when you need a gift for someone. You can find unique baskets made with a variety of candies and treats or find games and puzzles that anyone will love. You can even grab a sweatshirt on a cool day or get a Bandi Belt if you need a convenient place to store your phone, keys, and cash when you don't want to carry a purse. Eagles Nest also buys and sells used books. If you have some to bring in, you can contact the store and find out more about the program. You can also follow Eagles Nest on Facebook to find out about new book titles coming and see new merchandise. The owner, Bev, frequently updates the page and will announce sales, too. Whether you live in Fargo or nearby, you'll need reliable wheels to get you to any of these great independent book stores. Give us a call at Rydell Outlet Center, and we can help you find a used car or SUV you can trust to get you where you want to go.

Located 80 miles south of Grand Forks, Fargo is the most populous city in North Dakota. With so many people living here, you'd expect an abundance of places that offer sweet treats, like there are in Grand Forks — and you would be right! If you find yourself craving some delicious pastries, check out one of these Fargo-area bakeries. more Jen's Bakery Image via Unsplash via Yeh Xintong More than a decade ago, Jen Woinarowicz began selling jumbo cookies and Italian herb cheese bread at local markets and garnered wholesale accounts under the name Jen's Breads. She opened a retail spot in 2018 and renamed it Jen's Bakery. Today you'll not only find mouth-watering breads and cookies, but also salads, sandwiches, and savory quiches. Jen prepares her bread dough on baking stones, and the loaves are baked in a self-created steam oven like you'd find in large-scale bakeries. There are more than a dozen cookie varieties to choose from, including the best-selling salted caramel dark chocolate, gluten-free monster, peanut butter cup, red velvet, and root beer float. Jen's Bakery, which is located at at 5050 Timber Parkway Suite 108, is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Love in the Oven Bakery Casey Steele opened her bakery, which can be found at 1407 First Avenue North, in 2010, and she prides herself on being a small business owner who makes everything fresh at this made-to-order bakery.  She insists on using high-quality ingredients and adding homemade touches to create delicious baked goods. Because of her dedication to minimizing her environmental impact, she sources local ingredients whenever possible and uses unbleached, biodegradable bakery boxes, and baked goods are delivered in a hybrid vehicle. The extensive menu includes cookies, bars, breads, scones, cakes, cheesecakes, and cake bites. These cake bites, which include cake and frosting rolled together and dipped in chocolate or vanilla, are a bakery specialty. If you have gluten issues, the bakery has a half-dozen baked goods available, such as lemon bars, peanut butter banana cookies, and frosted brownies. Mehl's Gluten-Free Bakery By late-2009, all five of the Mehl siblings had been diagnosed with celiac disease. Because they were dissatisfied with the available gluten-free flour options, they started experimenting with ways to improve all-purpose gluten-free flour. As a result, in 2013 the family formed Mehl's Gluten-Free Flour Company and its offshoot, Mehl's Gluten-Free Bakery, which is located at 1404 33rd Avenue Suite H. Head into the bakery and try one of their made-from-scratch gluten-free breads, muffins, cookies, cakes, and cupcakes. You can also order a meal on Monday through Saturday between 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. Another choice is to pick up a frozen thick- or thin-crust take-and-bake pizza. If you prefer to prepare your own bakery items, visit the bakery's website, where you can find dozens of recipes that use gluten-free bread. Nichole's Fine Pastry and Cafe As the head chef and founder of Nichole's Fine Pastry and Cafe, North Dakota-native Nichole Hensen was inspired by her travels and experiences while attending the Culinary Institute of America in California. She came back home and opened a bakery in downtown Fargo in 2003. Her bakery, which is located at 13 South Eighth Street, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Nichole specializes in traditional European and classic American favorites, and most of the items on her menu are made from scratch with local ingredients. You'll find plenty of French-inspired food and beverages, including French pressed coffee, croissants, and gelato. The eclairs are filled with vanilla bean pastry cream and topped with a chocolate ganache, and her Neapolitans have layers of puff pastry, apricot preserves, and cream glazed with fondant. If you're craving a pie, the bakery has a handful of flavors, including sour cream raisin, butterscotch cream, and lemon meringue. Sour House Breads Begun by native North Dakotan baker Loni Larson, Sour House Breads, which is located at 2010 Elm Street North, highlights the science and art needed to make sourdough bread. Loni's breads combine the use of her own starter, which is approximately five years old, and a starter from Italy that is more than a century old. She and her family make each handmade loaf with just three ingredients — salt, water, and flour — and they follow a process that takes more than 48 hours to complete. This home-based micro-bakery mills its own flour using grain from local sources. Since stone milling doesn't strip away the bran and germ of wheat berry that you'll find with industrial roller mills, the nutrients are preserved. They also use a stone hearth oven to produce high-quality loaves of bread. Come on in and try the Kalamata Olive, Blue Cornmeal, or Rye Chocolate Cherry. Yeobo Sweet Shop Located at 408 Broadway North in historic downtown Fargo, Yeobo Sweet Shop strives to create a location that will give you sweet memories. "Yeobo" is a term of endearment in Korean that means "honey" or "sweetheart," and true to its name, you'll find a wall of more than 60 different types of gummy candies, as well as an assortment of lollipops and giant jawbreakers. Perhaps the best part of this location is its gourmet cupcakes, which are available upon request. They have more than two dozen varieties of cupcakes that are made from scratch with natural ingredients. Some of the most popular choices are Lavender Ginger Honey, Salted Chocolate Caramel, and Banana Split. There are also three flavors that are infused with alcohol: Irish Creme, Man Cake, and Margarita. If you're concerned about gluten, they also offer gluten-free cupcakes. By now, you're likely craving some pastries around Fargo. What do you think of this list of bakeries provided by Rydell Outlet Center? Would you prefer to see just donuts shops in Fargo? We have that too! Did we point out the best sweet spots, or did we miss one? If we forgot one, reach out to us and let us know. We want everyone to know which locally owned and operated bakeries they should visit!

When you buy a used car, you want it to last forever. You don't want a string of repairs and worries. We all know someone who's spent good money on a nightmare. How can you avoid buying a money pit? Number one: buy from someone you trust. Rydell Outlet Center is an extension of the same group that has been supplying great new and used vehicles to the North Dakota/Minnesota area for almost 70 years. We don't sell bad used cars. At the Outlet, finding diamonds and exceeding expectations is our specialty. more Second, a vehicle's longevity is partly connected to care and maintenance. Take care of it and it will take care of you. No one builds a bad car these days and 100,000 miles is easy to achieve. Yet research shows some makes and models consistently age well. Toyota and Honda dominate lists of cars most likely to reach 200,000 miles. Both companies have always been dedicated to reliability and quality above all else. It shows. In 2019, 1.8% of all used Toyotas and 1.6% of Hondas sold had over 200k on the clock. Another common feature among high-mileage machines: many are established full-sized trucks or body-on-frame SUVs. They haven't changed much over the years and they have simple powertrains. So what would we suggest to drive into the sunset and beyond? Toyota Land Cruiser Image via Flickr by Jones028 via CC BY 2.0 Since 1951, the Land Cruiser has taken wildlife guides safely in and out of the most dangerous biomes in the world. It's the second longest continuous production run of any automobile. Your commute might not involve lions or rhinos, but it could. Toyota continues to extensively test the Land Cruiser in the Australian outback, where heat and lack of resources can swiftly kill other vehicles. They've engineered a bullet-proof machine through generations of continual improvement. One of the most coveted engine options is the 2UZ-FE 4.7-liter V-8, designed specifically for low-revving, high-torque applications. It features DOHC cylinder heads, MFI fuel injection, 4 valves per cylinder and a cast aluminum intake manifold. For over a decade starting in 1998, this cast iron block appeared in the Land Cruiser as well as the 4Runner, Tundra, Sequoia, and Lexus GX/LX470. You might find one with the TRD bolt-on supercharger. A well maintained Land Cruiser will hold its value from 200k to 300k and beyond. Chevrolet Suburban Chevy first used the Suburban name in 1934. The title's been synonymous with durability and capacity ever since. Long before SUVs were ubiquitous, the Suburban was what you chose to drive everything and everyone everywhere. It was originally known as the Suburban Carryall and it continues to live up to that mission. Available with three benches since the 1990s, it's one of the rare vehicles that can seat nine. Underneath it all, the Suburban is a Chevy Truck. It's rugged, easy to repair, easy to source parts for, and features the same reliable engines as their Silverado siblings. The seventh generation was built from 1973 to 1991, far longer than any other version. It's the classic giant box that's been eating trails while loaded with camping gear since before "SUV" was a term. If you can turn a wrench and keep a truck running, you can keep a 7th generation Suburban going for another decade. Want something newer? The tenth generation (model years 2007-14) features a more aerodynamic shape and was also offered as a GMC Yukon XL. The 2010 model was named US News & World Report's number one affordable large SUV. You could get one with a 5.3, 6.0 or 6.2-liter V-8. Honda Ridgeline Honda took everything it knew about long lasting cars and made their first attempt at a modern pickup truck in 2006. They were looking to pull buyers from sedans, minivans, and SUVs and into pickups. While the styling isn't for every truck person, you can't doubt the utility and versatility. The first generation features innovations like a locking in bed trunk, a dual action tailgate, an in bed audio system, and more ingenious storage than truck owners were used to at the time. This first model was powered by a transverse mounted 3.4-liter V-6. The exhaust manifolds are cast directly into the cylinder heads of the aluminum block engine. This setup has proven to be near bullet proof when maintained on schedule. The Ridgeline will deliver the worry-free ownership experience you expect from a Honda car. Ford Expedition For many of the same reasons the Suburban is a classic, Ford's example of a full sized SUV eats up miles without complaining. It doesn't have the pedigree of the Suburban name, but Ford's been playing in the dirt since the Bronco and before. The Expedition also benefits from being the stablemate of the world's best selling truck. Launched in 1997 as the heir to the Bronco, it's their first full-sized four door SUV. It is mechanically a version of the F150, so parts from every generation are easy to find and so are qualified mechanics. The Lincoln Navigator is the same, but with a different badge and nicer appointments. You can find both models in extended versions and sometimes with EcoBoost engines. You might prefer the simplicity of a Ford V-8, however. Toyota Tacoma Few things have ever been more dependable than the most basic Toyota pickup. Whatever the decade, they hold their value. The Tacoma name was introduced in 1995 and it carried the durability with it. The basic 2.4-liter four-cylinder is a direct descendant of the engines that won't stop pushing old Toyota trucks around. You might find a rugged TRD model or one with a 4.0 V-6. If well taken care of, you can continue to flip the odometer. When searching for a great new-to-you vehicle, remember to ask the right questions, stick to simplicity, and shop with trustworthy people. Rydell has thrived in Grand Forks since the 1940s by selecting only the best used cars. Our new dealerships are a source of outstanding trades and we value our people above all else. You'll find only the best pre-owned selection and the most helpful staff at the Outlet Center, so come by and have a drive.

When you purchase a vehicle and drive it off the lot, the value will depreciate slightly. As time goes on and mileage increases, the vehicle will continue to depreciate, making it worth even less. If you think you might want to trade it in again, choose an optimal time. That way, you increase your potential trade-in value. There is no exact mileage number that will make or break your vehicle's trade-in value — but if it's possible, you should trade your vehicle in before it reaches 100,000 miles. more At Rydell Outlet Center, we have a sell/trade program available for customers just like you. If you are considering a new car and aren't sure what to do with your old one, let us help. We do not only accept trade-in vehicles - we also buy cars. You can sell us your vehicle outright to use for cash without the need to purchase another one. Use our Kelley Blue Book Valuation tool and find out what your vehicle is worth today. If you aren't ready just yet to sell or trade your vehicle in, here are some helpful tips on what mileage points you should consider when trading it in. Trading Your Vehicle In Based on Mileage There is no secret number on the odometer that will make or break the value of your vehicle. Some vehicles automatically carry higher resale value than others. That means a higher mileage on those vehicles might not change the trade-in value significantly. A good rule of thumb is to consider your vehicle's value will drop every 10,000 miles more you put on it. You can also use the mileage to track important milestones that can affect your decision on when to trade in your car. The first is the window between 30,000 and 40,000 miles. This point is often when the first set of bigger repairs occur. Bumper-to-bumper warranties typically expire around this period too. Many new car warranties expire at the three-year or 36,000-mile mark, whichever occurs first. During your first repairs, you may need to replace items like brakes or tires. You could spend over $300. However, dealers may offer you more for your vehicle if it's in excellent condition and doesn't require any major repairs. The second milestone to be mindful of is 60,000 to 70,000 miles. You can expect tires and brakes to need replacing during this time as well. Your car may need other maintenance services too, and you may be looking at a new battery. The value of your trade-in during this period will also depend on the age of your vehicle. Many vehicles that have reached 60,000 or more miles are at least five years old. Your vehicle could have already taken a major hit in depreciation. The third major milestone is when your vehicle's odometer hits 100,000 miles. While many newer cars can easily last well beyond the 100,000-mile mark, the truth is that depreciation often hurts the value of your vehicle at this point. Cars which have traveled 100,000 miles or more may not be eligible for dealers' certified pre-owned program. Hence, its value may decrease further. The make, model, and year of your vehicle are important for a vehicle that has logged 100,000 miles or more. If your vehicle is newer and you racked up high mileages, it may still have some significant value.  To know for certain, you can check our Kelley Blue Book Valuation tool or talk to one of our staff members. You might be surprised at how much value your car still has. COVID-19 and Used Car Prices The pandemic actually caused used car prices to increase. Initially, there was a decrease in the number of used vehicles being sold. However, by the end of 2020, prices were on the rise. This is important for those looking to trade in or sell their vehicle. You could have the unique opportunity right now to trade your vehicle in for a higher price than normal if prices continue to trend upward. The reason for the increase in prices may be due to people wanting to skip public transportation and drive their own car given the health crisis. Interest rates have also remained low, enticing other buyers to get a new vehicle. Meanwhile, the demand for a used vehicle is higher than before, possibly because people are concerned about financial stability given the pandemic's effect on the global economy. Trading In Your Vehicle Versus Selling It Image via Pixabay by Tumisu Some people question why they should trade a vehicle in when they can sell it for more on their own. When we purchase a vehicle, we have to consider additional costs, such as advertising and reconditioning costs. While you may make a little more money by selling it yourself, it can also prove to be more costly and time consuming. You will need to spend considerable time and resources to market the vehicle on your own. You need to increase the vehicle's visual appeal. Then, you have to advertise it and be present to show the vehicle to prospective buyers. You then have to where to show the car and whether you would let people meet with you at your home. You also have to protect yourself from possible scammers. Some people who contact private car sellers may end up being fake buyers and even attempt to steal the car. And while there are ways to ensure that the prospective buyer is credible, this would usually require a lot of extra work on your part. For these reasons, trading in your vehicle or selling it to the dealer is easier. Your time alone may be worth more than the little extra money you would receive from a private sale. You get to trade the vehicle in and be done with the process immediately. At Rydell Outlet, we will give you top dollar for your vehicle. You can choose to receive cash or a check right there on the spot. Rather than spend weeks or months dealing with selling your car, we can complete the process in 30 minutes or less in most cases. We will come to you if you don't want to bring your vehicle in. We can even facilitate an estate sale. To learn more, visit our website and contact us with any questions.