Many people don't realize that there are some times of the month and days of the week that are considered to be the best time to buy a used car. Because of sales volume, salesmen quotas and new inventory, dealerships are more willing to let cars go at a reduced rate, just to get them off the lot.
Look for Local Promotions: Most promos are geared towards weekends, and some dealerships extend the sales into the following Monday. Because salespeople are pressured heavily to perform well during these promos, they have more incentive to put together a deal for a truly interested used car buyer.
Shop at the End of the Month: At this time, salesmen are beginning to worry about their monthly quotas. Because quotas are often attached to bonuses, sales people are always eager to hit the numbers. They are more likely to put together a good deal for you so they can count your purchase into that month's quota.
Go for the Cold: Winter months are prime times to buy a car, as sales are typically lower in colder weather. Car sales around the holidays are particularly low, so a used car buyer can find some wonderful deals from car salesmen who really want to move some merchandise.
Choose a Vehicle That Is Not in High Demand: If you are looking to buy a car that perhaps was the last of the model line before the newer model made an appearance, chances are you can get a better deal than if you sought out the newer model.
Watch Out for Lease Trades: Look for used cars with expired leases where people have traded in these older models for the brand-new ones. You can pick up slightly used cars in excellent shape by asking when the leased cars will come back on the lot.
Look to the New Year: Because many car lots shift over new and used cars in the New Year, dealerships want to get rid of as much existing inventory as possible. In order to make room for newer vehicles with higher price tags, dealers are willing to do what it takes to get the vehicles out of there.
 | Leasing a car is a great option for some people, but the question of leasing vs. buying a car really depends on how you intend to use your car, and your long-term financial goals. Assuming a lease doesn't have to be a painful process, though; learn the jargon and common pitfalls to avoid, and you can get a great deal on leasing a car. |
If you are wondering how to buy a car from a dealership, then you should know that the art of negotiation is your best friend. Whether you're talking to a new car dealer or a used car dealer, they are always happy to see new customers. That's because they hope to talk you into a sale that will leave them with a fat commission check. But you need to be ready before you walk onto that lot, or you might be pressured into buying a lemon. |
Unscrupulous dealers use a number of car lease trade scams to run up fees and penalties if you trade in your lease, all the while telling you they're getting you a deal. Find out if a lease trade will work for you or if it's just hype. |
When the time comes to buy a new car, people want to get the best deal they can find. Think about the best time to buy a car to ensure you're getting a good price. |
When you're buying a used car, checklists can be your best friend. Because of the risk of purchasing a used car from someone, whether a private seller or a dealership, it's important to check that the car appears exactly as represented. |
