Here is how I handled purchasing my latest car. If you already know the make and model of the new car you want to buy, then go to
AutoTrader.com and enter the information. That's what I did in 2013 and the parameters of 100 miles.
Soon every car dealer within that 100 mile area that had those cars on their lot would appear. I was looking for a Hyundai Veloster Turbo in silver or white with automatic. It was a limited release so I had to search for two weeks before finding the exact car in Winter Haven at Red Haugland Hyundai. I called and they confirmed the car was there and for sale. In fact the online salesman took his phone and walked out to the car and asked if I had any questions.
Then I did two more options on
AutoTrader.com, the first was how much should I pay. The car's list price was $23,925. The answer was $22,600, I was a little surprised because the car was hard to find and online message boards said dealers were getting above list price. Sort of like when the Mazda Miata first hit the market.
Next I asked
AutoTrader.com how much should I get on trade for my car. I had a 2011 Mazda 3 Grand Touring Hatchback. I entered the car's mileage and that it was a trade for a new car and the answer was $16,600.
Next I headed to Red Haugland down Hwy 27 and upon arrival I saw the salesman who was waiting for me and test drove the car. I told them I would pay $22,600 for the car and I wanted $16,600 for my trade. The salesman left the room for about 30 seconds and came back and shook my hand and said we have a deal. It was the best car buying experience I ever had.
