Buying a car can be an overwhelming process, especially if you’re not a skilled negotiator. But what if we told you that negotiating isn’t necessary to score the best deal? In fact, avoiding negotiation altogether might just be the smartest move. Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting the best price on a new or used car, courtesy of Kevin Hunter, “The Homework Guy,” and the Amazing Elizabeth.
Step 1: Preparation is Key
Before diving into the process, make sure you’ve narrowed your choices to one or two specific models. This ensures that you’re comparing apples to apples when gathering prices. Also, allow yourself a week to 10 days to complete these steps. Proper preparation and time for price comparisons are crucial to your success.
Step 2: Forget Negotiation – Let the Dealers Compete
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to negotiate to get the lowest price. Instead, let dealers compete for your business by following these two rules:
- Contact Dealers Online or by Phone: Avoid in-person price discussions.
- Make it Clear They’re Competing: Inform dealers you’re getting prices from multiple competitors.
By requesting out-the-door (OTD) prices, which include taxes and fees, you can collect competitive offers without stepping foot in a dealership. Reach out to 15–20 dealers to ensure you receive at least 7–8 quotes. Some won’t respond, but that’s normal. Persistence pays off.
Step 3: Leverage Online Price Tools
Start with reputable automated services like TrueCar and CarsDirect. These platforms provide upfront prices that give you a solid foundation for comparison. While these tools might not include every dealer in your area, they’re an easy way to begin your search.
Step 4: Contact Local Dealers
Expand your search by manually contacting dealerships near you. Start with those closest to your location and work your way outward. For each dealership, request the internet sales manager or fleet manager. These professionals are more likely to provide straightforward, competitive pricing.
When speaking with dealers, ask for their best OTD price via email or text. This ensures there’s no ambiguity and creates a written record for reference.
Step 5: Evaluate Quotes and Ask for Better Offers
Once you’ve gathered quotes from at least seven dealers, compare them to identify the lowest bid. Then, reach out to each dealer and offer them a chance to beat the lowest price. Use language like, “I’m looking for a dealer who wants to earn my business.” This phrase often motivates dealers to dig deeper for better pricing.
Step 6: Finalize the Deal in Writing
When you’ve identified the best offer, request a signed purchase order that includes all details:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- MSRP
- Invoice price
- Additional fees (taxes, title, registration, and doc fees)
- Final OTD price
Do not visit the dealership without this documentation. This protects you from bait-and-switch tactics, ensuring the dealer honors their offer. If they try to renege, be prepared to walk away and work with the next best bidder
Bonus Tips for Success
- Avoid “Too Good to Be True” Deals: If a quote is thousands lower than others, it might involve hidden conditions, such as being a demo car or including rebates you don’t qualify for.
- Time Your Purchase: Contact dealers near the end of the month when they’re motivated to hit sales quotas.
- Be Persistent: Follow up with dealers who don’t respond or provide incomplete quotes.
- Stay Organized: Keep track of all dealer contacts, quotes, and details in a spreadsheet.
Need Help? Hire the Homework Guy Team
If this process feels overwhelming, consider using The Homework Guy Team’s hassle-free car buying service. Their expert negotiator, Stewart, can contact up to 30 dealers on your behalf, saving you time and effort while securing the best deal.
With these six steps, you can confidently secure the lowest price on your next car purchase—no negotiation skills required. For even more tips and car buying advice, visit The Homework Guy website.
Watch the full video for more details here: How to Get the Best Car Price.
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