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Old 08-08-2020, 08:40 AM
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blueash blueash is offline
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First go to several dealers to find what car you want. Then send an email to every dealer of that brand within 100 miles telling them exactly what you want, and what discounts you may qualify for such as military or student or repeat buyer. Ask the dealer to reply by email with the total final cost including any fees, taxes, registration etc. You then have an "out the door" final cost. Print out the email and take it to the closest dealer and ask if they are willing to match the lowest cost, or call and ask.

If they say "no" get up and leave. You may get chased into the parking lot when it is decided they will take the loss and have you as a happy customer.

As to selling your used car if that is in the plan, you'll get the most if you do it yourself but that is a nuisance. Next option is trade in when you buy the new car... if they don't make a profit on selling the new car, they will low-ball you on the trade to make the profit on that re-sale. A third option is to use the instant cash offer on kelly blue book, kbb.com Be completely honest with the condition of your car and you will get exactly what is offered. You can do this before going to your dealer to see how much less they are offering.

Or you can do it the easy way and use a dealer you like, trade your car there and pay their cost. It may mean a couple thousand dollars more but save all the time and trouble. YMMV