Looking for the best deal is what everyone is after when purchasing any product. Especially, when it comes to such a large investment, like buying a car. You’re going to want to look into how to play the same mind games as the seller and see through their tricks.
Therefore, you need to get familiar with what you should and shouldn't do before and during the purchase of your brand new car. Most importantly, don’t feed into their kindness too much, so you can protect what’s in your wallet. Instead, just get familiar with these ten tips and you’ll be on the road to savings and happiness.
10 BE PREPARED
If you know what you want, or even if you don’t, do your homework.
Find out about the reliability, safety, quality, features and average pricing of what you’re after beforehand. Research which cars you want to look at more closely but be open to similar models.
Use the knowledge of the employees you’re interacting with and ask them all you need to know. Lastly, don't walk-in blindly, know what the stickers on the vehicles refer to.
9 FIGURE OUT THE AVERAGE RATES
It’s smart to get your credit report before the purchase of a car. From there, apply for an auto loan if needed and take the approval to the dealership of your choice.
This may result in a better rate than they will offer you directly. Typically, you need a credit score above 700 to buy a new car.
8 CALL-IN FIRST
Making a phone call into the dealership helps receive more accurate quotes. Since buying a car is all about the experience, excitement and emotional attachment you could lose your ability to think clearly because by the time you’ve fallen in love you’re willing to pay almost anything.
By calling, the sale price is direct. Although, if you call-in and the dealer is smooth-talking you into setting up an appointment, rather than providing a price, don’t take the bait.
7 TIME MANAGEMENT
Try going into a car dealership on a Tuesday or Wednesday when it is slower in the shop, but never a Saturday, the weekends are typically very busy. This will prevent waiting times and it allows you to have the full attention of your sales associate.
If you are curious about the best months to go, visit in-between October and December. This is because car dealerships need to reach their sales quota, which breaks down into yearly, monthly and weekly sales goals.
6 HIDE & SEEK
If you have a car to trade in, DON’T tell them. Not immediately anyway. It is important not to let the dealership know until you have agreed on the price of the new car.
In the end, this provides you with a good deal for both the new and used vehicle. When you buy the new car and send in the trade-in car separately you can save your money because the sales representative makes it seem like they are paying more for your trade-in car, ultimately leading to less of a “discount” for the new car.
5 WATCH WHAT YOU SAY
"I love this car" and "I need to buy a car today" are two phrases that should not be mentioned to your car salesperson, ever. Your heart will become attached and that is okay, keep it to yourself. Use your mind before you get talked into something that was only about the outer appearance.
Although there are times that we are desperate for a car, like after your current one broke down, or was in an accident, keep it quiet. Prices may be jacked up otherwise. Take a look around and see what you like, there is no need to commit right away. You can always borrow from a friend or family member. Oh yeah, and do not admit that you don't know much about cars either.
4 THE TEST DRIVE
One of the best things you could do is take a test drive, not alone though. Take the friends or family members that will regularly be driving in the vehicle with you. You want those people to be comfortable, and it is always nice to get a second or third opinion. This is also a good time to find out if all necessities fit, this could be a car seat for your baby or a stroller.
Also, if possible drive a route that is similar to the one you take every day, such as your commute to work.
Figure out if it drives the way you like, if it has enough space, and includes all the features you're after. Of course, you might not be familiar with every feature or control of the car, but ask about them and decide if you like them or not, if you don’t, this car might not be for you. It is better to know before rather than after.
3 USE THE CORRECT "MONEY" TERMS
The real truth comes out simultaneously when the papers are signed. Most of the time, dealers will quote cars by the monthly payment, and negotiate that price by extending the loan term and neglecting to bring up the actual purchase price.
Using correct money terms will ensure you aren't paying forever, and for a reasonable price too. It is best to know before you sign.
2 AN EVEN BETTER DEAL
If you ask the right questions you can get additional add ons included with your cars such as warranties, maintenance visits, paint and wheel protection. That’s a real bonus!
You should also keep in mind that there could be additions you aren’t willing to have or pay for, so ask about these as well. This is referred to as a dealer-install option. This could be rewarding or unnecessary. They include a range of things such as the installation of all-weather floor mats, to what the tires are pumped-up with as well as a theft protection package. Be aware.
1 BE PATIENT
The new car that you’re after isn’t going anywhere and there are many just like it waiting around on the dealership's property, take it easy and don’t rush to buy anything. Use time in your favor, and use it to look for better possible options. This also lets the dealer wonder what went wrong.
The best news is saved last, these tips were expressed by experienced automobile salespeople. In the end, they will help you find what you want so take their suggestions. Drive yourself away confident you’re getting the car that is best suited for you and your needs for the right price.