Getting the best price for a car isn’t always an easy task – especially if you don’t know what you’re doing. It’s no secret that many consumers spend more than they have to, and sometimes dealerships offer additional packages that you may not really want. As such, you may feel understandably nervous about the whole process.
The best way to combat this anxiety is to arm yourself with as much knowledge as possible. The more you know, the better. Once you know what you want and how to ask for it, you will feel much better about your next trip to a dealership. So, just take a deep breath and let us walk you through this process.
Research the vehicle on a few sites before you go to the dealership
Knowledge is power, which means that the first thing you need to do is research the car or cars you want on a website such as Unhaggle.com. All you need to do is select the make and model of the car you want, and you will be taken to a page where you will find detailed information on the price, specs and all the recent incentives. Read everything you see and take notes.
Before walking into a dealership, you need to know what car you want, how much it costs and whether you’ll be leasing or financing it.
It is a good idea to let the dealer make you an offer first before you volunteer your own expectations. For instance, if you enter a dealership and tell your dealer that you want to pay less than $300 a month, you’re giving him or her license to charge you more than they may have originally quoted. Be smart about your money.
Act like an expert
Once you’re at a dealership, try your best to relax before starting to discuss prices because a clear and level head is the key. Car dealers discuss car prices on a daily basis, which makes them experts. Speak slowly, and don’t hesitate to ask the salesperson to slow down or repeat what they are saying. Be totally sure you understand what is being offered. Use the knowledge you’ve gathered through your research to reinforce what you are being told.
Compare prices between local dealers
If you have been offered a price you are comfortable with, that is great. Remember, dealerships need to earn a profit, too. The objective of your pricing conversation is to get a fair price. If you do not feel the price you were given is fair or the dealer does not seem flexible at all, it may be time to visit another local dealership.
A great way to do this and save time is by taking advantage of Unhaggle.com’s concierge car buying service. For $99, they will get you the lowest price guaranteed on your next new purchase without you having to visit all your local dealerships in-person.
Check with your bank on financing first
Regardless of whether you’re planning to buy a used or a new car, always check what you can get from your local bank or credit union before walking into a dealership. We suggest getting the lowest rate you can find and go from there. So, if the dealer is offering zero-per-cent-financing, you can find out beforehand how much it is worth on the loan and terms you wish to use. That way, you will know whether to take the zero-per-cent financing or the rebate.
Be OK with leaving without the car
If a dealer does not meet your needs, don’t let them convince you otherwise. If you’re thrown curveballs you aren’t prepared for or you’re not satisfied with the whole process, just say you need some time and walk away. There’s nothing stopping you from leaving – you aren’t under any obligation or oath. Instead, just go home, collect your thoughts and do additional research. Remember, your money is on the line here, so don’t accept the first offer you receive if you are not satisfied with it.
