So I've never bought a used car from a lot before. Have always been very skeptical. Came close once years ago, but it was lemony upon mechanic's inspection. I tried to haggle them down in person, but I guess I'm not a convincing negotiator, so I failed and left.
But this past week I pulled the trigger. Here's my story for anyone interested: My wife an I knew exactly what car we wanted (Prius V). We had been looking for quite some time, but everything available was too expensive/too far away. Finally found one in the town over listed for $10K. Looked like they'd had it on their lot for two weeks or so. Showed up and arranged a test drive/inspection, and loved it. Carfax was spotless. Didn't commit to anything at that point, but I did admit to the dealer we were interested and might be back. Called back a few days later and asked to discuss price. I was upfront with her that I had never bought from a lot before and wasn't sure how that haggle back and forth game was played and that honestly, I didn't want to play it. I told her I'd looked at the blue book prices, and that I thought $9K was fair, and that it was all we could afford. If she could commit to that, we'd head over and buy it. She said she'd have to check w/the manager and asked if she could text me back. A few minutes later a text came in saying they could do $9K, but that there were title fees we'd have to pay around $300. I said I was sorry, but that it would have to be $9K total out the door, restated it was really all I had, (not really true, but she doesn't need to know that). After an hour of no response, and worrying that i might have to cave and cough up the extra $300, I finally called to ask if she had reconsidered. Said she'd been busy and hadn't had time to ask the manager yet, and did so while I was on the phone. She said they'd cover the fees. My very happy self agreed to head on over, and we had ourselves a deal. Has only been a week, but I am convinced we have a reliable car, it's the one we wanted, and we got it for a very reasonable price.
TLDR; test drive/inspect, and leave. Then agree to a price before you return to the lot to buy. You might be able to get about around 10% off.
March 08, 2017 at 01:40PM
