Whether you’re buying a new or used car, there are certain things to keep in mind when making a purchase. Unless you are a natural-born haggler, you might be a little uncomfortable or uneducated as to how to get the lowest price. A lower price means a lower monthly payment, and who doesn’t like saving money?

Research the Market Value

Just like any other purchase, you want to know what the vehicle is worth. There are many resources and websites available for consumers to check how much a car is realistically worth. Checking on this before going to the dealership will give you peace of mind knowing you’re getting a fair deal. You can assess the value of the car by going to sites like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds. Both sites will help you find the average price per model in your area.

Don’t become too invested in the deal

You need to be ready to walk away from the deal if it’s not adding up. Make sure you keep a clear head and know when to say, “no thanks” and move on. Don’t get attached to a particular car, because in reality, there are thousands to choose from. Saying no and moving on may be a result of the dealer you are speaking to as well. Many are overly pushy and confusing, resulting in a bad customer experience. They may promise one thing, then turn around and take it back. Pay close attention to what they say and take notes if you have to. Auto Advisors are a great tool to use because they help people buy cars all the time. They know what to look out for and how to get the best deal.

Walk into the dealership knowing your out-of-door price

The out-of-door price is the price that you want to walk out with, which includes all fees, taxes, and other costs that you pay. Make sure this reflects the market value that you researched. Go into the dealership with a firm price and then talk the salesperson down. The salesperson wants to make a sale, so if you’re firm and don’t get too set on buying the car that same day, the salesperson will many times settle for your price.

Don’t get sucked into the extras

Here are some common add-ons that the dealership will try to get you to purchase to make it seem like you’re getting an added benefit.

• Nitrogen in your tires – This is only useful for racing; otherwise, you likely will not notice a difference in your car’s performance or wear.
• Theft Protection – These packages vary, but most new cars come with a built-in alarm system that will do the trick. There is no need for an advanced system.
• Rear-seat Entertainment Systems – These are a complete waste of money. Ten years ago, it was a different story, but currently you can purchase a tablet for a fraction of what a rear-seat system would cost.

In conclusion, you need to be prepared and informed when purchasing a vehicle. Going to a dealership underprepared will most likely result in a poor deal that you walk away from unsatisfied. If haggling isn’t your thing, consider using an Auto Advisor. It’s their job to make sure you get the best price. They work with dealerships thousands of times a year, so dealers want to give them the best price possible in order to keep getting their business. You can learn more about our free auto advisors by clicking here.