Some people believe that buying a car involves a dozen complicated
forms, stern looks from across the desk, falsely reassuring claps on the back
and other uncomfortable experiences. But as long as one keeps a level head and
knows what to expect, the process is smooth. There are a few simple steps to
follow before taking possession of the keys.
First, get approved for financing before beginning the search. This will
save the headache that comes with the statement, "Oh, I’m sorry. The loan
was denied." After that, remember the three rules of shopping for a car:
research, research, research. Besides Kelley Blue Book, there are, literally,
dozens of other websites one can visit to see the value of trade-ins and get anidea of what new cars cost. Manufacturers and dealerships also have special
deals and often maintain descriptions of those deals on their websites. Know
them before you sit down at the desk.
After arming yourself with the right information, it’s time to put on
the "tough negotiator" hat. Your earlier research will make it easier
for you to tell when a dealer isn’t on the level when quoting irrational
prices. Don’t be afraid to walk out if things don’t feel right. Reputable
dealers will appreciate well-informed customers because they tend to be repeat
customers when they realize they can trust the dealer. The final handshake
should be a solid bond of mutual respect.
