Automotive

Buying a Used Car in Caboolture: Negotiation 101

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You’ve scrimped, saved, and created a workable budget so that you can buy a car without overwhelming yourself with bills and other issues. Now that you have what you need, you can begin your search for a used car that best suits your needs.

While you want to decide which of the used cars in Caboolture is the one for you, there are quite a few things you need to consider first and some tips you need to know about so that you can haggle the price down to something you can afford without a problem. The last thing you want to do is pay the first price asked by a used car salesman. Instead, read on below for negotiation 101 when it comes to buying a used car. 

Do your research

Never go into a car dealership without knowing anything about the type of car you want or without anything to negotiate with. It’s important to note that if you want to negotiate a cheaper price on a used car, you have to first know the reason you deserve a lower price. There are many sites online that will give you the value of the car you’re thinking of buying and the information you need to negotiate the dealer down to a fair price, as well. 

Ask a mechanic

The same analogy that pertains to buying a house applies when buying a used car. When you buy a home, you have an inspector look at the home to see if it’s worth the asking price and has anything that needs to be fixed before closing. The same holds true for a used car. 

There are many mechanics out there who are mobile and will go out and inspect the car that you are considering buying. If you can’t find a mechanic that is willing to come to you, talk to the car dealership about taking the car to the mechanic instead. Most dealerships are willing, as long as you are sure to have the car back within a reasonable amount of time. 

Don’t get caught up in the payment

While you may want to take out a loan and pay for the car upfront, it is possible that you will end up needing to pay monthly payments instead. Many salespeople hope to keep you focused on that monthly payment because it’s easier to make you think you’re getting a great deal, when the focus is on that one number. However, it’s better for you to look at the total price for the car, the financing, as well as the total cost for purchasing it. In other words, you need all the numbers and all the facts before making a final decision as to whether the car you have in mind fits into your budget or not — not just what your monthly payment will be. 

Avoid those costly extras

When all the haggling is done, you’ll be led into the financing office to finalize the deal. Don’t breathe a sigh of relief just yet though, as the negotiating is far from over. This is where the dealer will go for the most money, when they start offering you the extras. Such add-ons will not only raise the total price of the used car, but could even increase your monthly payments, as well. The choice of which extras you might need and the ones you can do without are totally up to you. Just remember, the more extras you add, the further your price will be driven up in the long run. Take your time, haggle, then determine which add ons are the best for you and your used car. 

These are just a few of the tips that will help you negotiate a fair price for the used car you’re trying to purchase. Follow them, and you’ll drive off the lot with the car of your dreams and a smile on your face. 

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