What’s not to love about a new car? It has state-of-the-art navigation and audio systems, flawless tyres, a gleaming finish, purring engine and soft upholstery – and that new car smell that has to be one of the most seductive aromas around. If you’re in the market for a new car, we’ve got a few tips that will get you all of those exciting features, at the best price.
Dealers are experts at selling new cars, but the good news for canny buyers is that dealers don’t hold all the cards. The thing is, you as buyer have the final say in whether or not a sale is made – so remember this!
Take your time when you decide to buy a new car. Don’t even think of stepping into a showroom until you’ve done some serious research; a few hours online can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars!
- Take a flexible attitude; you may have an ideal make and model in mind initially, but be prepared to consider other options if they offer you more benefits.
- Be systematic; make detailed notes or create a spread sheet so that you have all the information you need at your fingertips when the time comes to make a purchasing decision – right down to the minute details like wheels and car battery options.
- Do extensive research into current prices in the market – including second-hand car prices. It’s best to be aware of all of your options.
- Look into other expenses related to car purchase and ownership, such as insurance and registration charges, which can affect costs, and influence your decision.
- Decide what options you need before you visit showrooms, and don’t let the sales person push you into choosing features you don’t want.
- Remember the run-out model, which may have all of the features of the newest model, but at a bargain price.
- There is pressure at the end of the month or end of the quarter (March, June, September and December). Dealers and sales staff are likely to be under pressure to meet targets. At these times, they may be more open to negotiating and making compromises to secure sales and keep their numbers up.
- Be canny when it comes to trading in your old car. Avoid getting into any negotiations about trade-in values until you and the sales person have agreed on the final purchase price of your new car. A private sale of your old car may be a better option for you.
Your dealer will undoubtedly have more experience as a car seller than you have as a car buyer. Don’t be intimidated by this: it’s you, the buyer, who has the money and the last word. If you feel rushed or pressured by a sales person, ask for more time to think about the deal. Know your budget price, be informed about the current market conditions for the type of car you’re looking for, stay confident, and consider the transaction in a relaxed, unpressured environment.
[Image: Dealster]
