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To many, haggling is a dark art but,
without it, you could end up spending thousands more for a car than you
have to. It doesn¡¯t have to be this way, and there are some simple
pointers to help you become an effective negotiator and clinch a great
deal.
• Do your research. Before you visit a dealer, do some homework and find
out the size of discounts that companies are offering. Brokers, and even
information online. Target Price will show you the average price that
you can expect to pay for a car.
• If buying privately, find out what
similar cars are going for, set your price and then negotiate to it with
the seller.
• Stay calm. You¡¯ll get a better deal if you are cool, calm and
collected.
• Decide on your specification of car, know what you're looking to buy,
and don¡¯t be talked into taking a lower specs car unless the price
reflects it.
• Start at a low opening price but be realistic. Let the other person
negotiate you up to a price you are both happy with.
• Don¡¯t be put off by special offers in the showroom. Check the details
to see if they are as good as they look. It might better to get a bigger
discount than to go for a special offer.
• Show commitment. If you look as if you want to do a deal, the other
person should work harder to reach an agreement.
• Deliver an ultimatum. If you are getting close to a deal, say that you
will buy a particular car at a particular price ¨C if they agree now.
• Walk away. Don¡¯t be afraid to leave if you can¡¯t reach the deal you're
looking for. There is always another car and another deal.