How to Negotiate a Used Car Price

Richmond drivers who shop pre-owned vehicles are looking for a bang for their buck, so of course, you don’t want to just settle on the initial price if you believe it’s not fairly priced. But how would you go about that effectively? Short Redmond SuperStore is your local used car dealer, so we go through this process with our customers every single day! We have some tips to share with you, so you can feel prepared when you go to negotiate the price of the model that you want. Learn more below! 

Research Car Values 

Before you even get to the negotiation, you were probably searching for the model that fits your Winchester lifestyle best. One of the things to look out for when shopping for a used car would be the market car values. Websites like Cars.com, Edmunds, and Kelley Blue Book are useful resources for determining what a fair price is for a specific model, and what other shoppers in your area have paid for a similar one. Factors like mileage, condition, features, and packages can affect the car’s value, so you should be aware of these factors of the model that’s for sale in your area. Regardless, you want to have a range, so you know what to ask for when negotiating the price. 

Ask for a Lower Price (If You Choose) 

If you find that the initial asking price is more than what the car can actually go for, then you’ll want to have some facts and numbers ready to help you when asking for a lower price. This might be stress-inducing if it’s a bit out of your comfort zone, but keep in mind that dealerships are used to shoppers negotiating prices all the time and that price negotiation is allowed with dealers for the most part. Just be prepared to show what you’ve found in your research and express that to the salesperson. This will show to the salesperson that you know what you’re talking about and will prompt them to discuss this further with you. 

Not sure how to even start the negotiation? You can say something along the lines of “I’ve researched this car’s market value, and I know how much shoppers typically pay for a car like this one. If you can give me a better deal than this one (hand over a copy of the lowest sales price you’ve found, or a printout of a similar listing at a local dealership), I would buy the car today.”

More Tips on How to Negotiate a Used Car 

While doing your research on the model’s values is a big part of a successful negotiation in Danville, you’ll want to keep the following in mind whether this is your first time negotiating a used car price or you’re not too comfortable in social situations: 

• Again, facts are your best friend— keep the conversation light, but be direct about what you’re asking for. 
• If a salesperson makes you feel uncomfortably in any way or attempts to strongarm you into a deal, simply walk away. Negotiating the price of a vehicle shouldn’t be personal, and you don’t have to go through with the sales if you don’t want to.
• Take your time, especially when talking numbers. Write down the price you’re offering and have your printouts handy. 
• Don’t allow yourself to be led into a negotiation if you’re not ready. Wait until you’re equipped with the numbers and facts. They will help you feel more confident and allows you to feel that you’re being reasonable with the negotiation. 

Find a Used Car at a Price that You Love from Short Redmond SuperStore!

Whether you’re looking for an SUV or truck in Lexington, turn to the selection at Short Redmond SuperStore as well as our pre-owned specials. Running on a tight budget? See our models specifically priced under $15K! If you have any questions, reach out to us at any time.