[Geewiz]

Am I the only person who likes buying a car like you're haggling in Morocco?

All thr advice here is spot on re: knowing what the dealer paid for the car. Remember - invoice price doesn't factor in give-backs at the end of the quarter or month. Also, the dealer markup on dealer installed options is huge.

On the downside is that hot models offer you very little leverage. A model where stock is limited means closer to list or even above list. Welcome to capitalism.

But, if you choose a model where stock is plentiful and you wait until near the end of the month, get ready for the most fun you can have with your pants on.

Before you go in - research the actual dealer cost after givebacks. Add a couple hundred for fair profit - unless you're like me and enjoy the sight of blood.

First - don't trade in where you buy. These are separate negotiations and you have to be very good at multitasking to handle both at the same time because most dealer will make up a low-ball price on your purchase by nailing you on the trade-in. Sell it private or go to a place like Car Max -- after you fixed all obvious issues plus had your car detailed.

Back to buying fun. Negotiate a good price ... not your price ... but, a starting point. Start filling out the paperwork. Let this linger. Talk a lot. Slow the salesman down. Let him mentally count the pennies of his commission. Mentally - he's already spent it. Become a pal..a chatty one.

Sign and sign and when you get to the bottom start to hesitate. Think. Look distressed. Ask again, what is the out the door price. Moan and mumble you just can't do it....the salesman will call the sales manager. Repeat the act....don't forget being chatty and drop little treats like how convenient it would be to have the auto serviced at their facility and how you have friends also looking for a car.

Fight! Fight! Fight! Just do it with a soft voice and a smile. Don't get up and say this is a take it or leave it. Instead, take their time with funny stories that go on and on and on.

Enjoy the dangling carcass of their diminishing profit. Remember, it's more than just getting a good deal....it's the love of the game.

Cheers!

G