Negotiating Car Prices Is Easier When You Do Your Homework

The car-buying process is a lengthy one, and while the end result is typically joyous, there are a few aspects of the deal that grate on the nerves of drivers. A recent CarFinance.com survey found that negotiating price is the part most drivers look forward to the least. This can be a difficult task whether the driver is looking to purchase a new or used car, but there are some things one can do to make the negotiations run more smoothly and in their favor.

"Despite a positive lending climate and a surge in new car sales this year, the challenge of getting the best price and interest rate still preoccupy car buyers," said Jim Landy, CEO of CarFinance.com. "These factors shouldn't roadblock someone from getting the car they want, however. A little bit of homework can really help expand a customer's auto purchase and finance options, especially in this post-recession upswing."

Researching the vehicle you want to buy is crucial. When it comes to used cars, drivers can go online to find out the average sale price for similar makes and models. It is important to take the quality of the vehicle they want to buy into consideration. The market value of a used vehicle typically indicates the average selling cost of a used car in pristine condition, any minor damage, such as dents, paint chips or faulty interior amenities should, in theory, reduce the price.

When a buyer visits a dealership with a head full of knowledge about pricing for the car they want, they have firm ground to stand on when it comes to negotiations. If they visit NJ Auto Auction, they'll have even less to worry about, as all the vehicles on the lot are reasonably priced and CARFAX certified.