How to Get a Good Deal on Car Prices
- 1). Set your parameters. What is it that you want from a car? Is your main concern how many miles per gallon you will get or maybe you are looking for car that has more seating space than your standard compact. Will you be buying new or used? How much can you afford to pay? Decide exactly what it is that you want from your deal and when that's done you are then prepared to do battle with the car salesman.
- 2). Do your research. Your local library or book store will have plenty of information about the type of cars that are on the market. Read about what cars are available within the parameters that you set.
- 3). Check out the car listings available. Look at the automobile section of your local paper and the free car sales magazines that you get from the grocery store to see what is available in your area. Check the Internet for more options. You can get a great deal from an Internet auction site, but if you chose that route, be aware that your return options may be limited if there is a problem with the car. Don't lose site you your warranty parameters just to save a few bucks purchasing a cheaper car online.
- 4). Check out what your best financing options are. If you have cash, then you are in a much stronger position to negotiate a deal on a new car. Do you have a car to trade in? If you need to borrow the money, a loan from the bank could be cheaper than a finance agreement with a car dealer. Look at the options and choose what is right for you and your wallet.
- 5). Do not rush. Car salesmen have long had a reputation for being able to turn on the charm and be very persuasive. Remember that during the sales negotiation you are in charge. The salesman needs the sale, but you have an unlimited number of options for where you buy. When you have found the car that fits the bill, do not appear too eager. Even if the salesman tells you there has been a lot of interest in that particular car, don't be rushed into buying it. Take your time and think about it carefully before you make a choice. Get a couple of quotes from a couple of dealerships and play one off against the other. Your negotiating position is much stronger if the salesman knows that there is another deal for you to pick just down the road.
- 6). Start low when it comes to the negotiation. Make an offer that is below what you are willing to pay. Fifteen percent less would be a good place to start as it gives you room to maneuver. The salesman will do the same ,but his price will be on the high side. Haggling like this is perfectly acceptable and you should not worry about trying to get a car cheaper than it really should be because you won't. It is all part of the process. Always keep your budget in mind. If you cannot reach a price agreement, be prepared to walk away. Remember, there's always another car and another deal somewhere else.
Never be afraid to walk away. The salesman needs you more than you need him. - 7). Make sure you getting the warranty and after sales service that you want. Buying a car is a package and you have to be happy with every aspect of it. The warranty offered by the dealership may be standard but check exactly what it is that you are getting for your money. Only sign on the dotted line and hand over the money when you are completely satisfied that everything is right for you. This is your car and your deal.
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