Dealing with salespeople is almost unavoidable, particularly when buying a car. There is a stereotype of car salespeople being sleazy and will push and push to close a deal. This negative image may be an inaccurate representation of most salespeople. Nevertheless, it is important to remember that at the end of the day they work in sales and it is their job to sell you something, whether you want it or not.
Buying a car can be one of the most thrilling shopping experiences. Of course, as you know it is also one the most expensive. It’s safe to say, buying a car is not something you should rush into. To help you prepare to buy a new or used car, we have listed some suggestions to help you get best deal and to avoid being pressured into making the wrong purchase by a pushy salesperson.
Be prepared
Before walking into the car dealer, have a clear idea what kind of car you’re after. Do your homework and narrow down what make, model or car type you want to drive away. For example, if the car is only going to be used for short trips with no passengers on board, you won’t need an expensive 7-seater 4WD. Clearly a 2-door hatchback is more suitable to your needs. Salespeople may try to entice you to buy a bigger car, or a car with features you don’t necessarily need. Do some research beforehand and narrow down what you are after. Steer the sale where you want it to go – don’t be the passenger.
Bring a friend
Bringing a friend along is one of the best plays when walking into a car dealer. It is harder for salespeople to blindside you if you are with a friend who’s there watching your back. If you reach a point where you need to think over what salespeople have told you or need take a break, excuse yourselves. It’ll be a lot harder to do so if you’re on your own. On top of that, if you bring a friend along, he/she can help keep you on track and may offer valuable insights.
Be nice
Car salespeople may be pushy and may make you feel uncomfortable. As such, they are probably used to being poorly treated. Salespeople are people to, and you may strike a better deal if you treat them with respect. If you are nice and polite to them they may be more inclined to offer you a better deal.
However, it’s important not to be too accommodating. Remember to be firm about what you are after and know your price limit. Do not let salespeople steer the sale somewhere you don’t want it to go.
If you are annoyed or frustrated by a particular salesperson, simply ask for another salesperson or leave the car dealer if necessary.
Your Trade Secret
Before walking into the car dealer, have a clear idea what kind of car you’re after. Do your homework and narrow down what make, model or car type you want to drive away. For example, if the car is only going to be used for short trips with no passengers on board, you won’t need an expensive 7-seater 4WD. Clearly a 2-door hatchback is more suitable to your needs. Salespeople may try to entice you to buy a bigger car, or a car with features you don’t necessarily need. Do some research beforehand and narrow down what you are after. Steer the sale where you want it to go – don’t be the passenger.
The information contained in this blog is accurate only at the date of publication.
