Originally Posted By: Rock_Hudstone
Originally Posted By: smc733
[I do know these depreciate fast, which worries me that this is a far more unsound financial decision... But, any thoughts on what I could haggle them to? If I could get the difference between my trade and this car to $5k, I might be inclined to bite...
I have also been looking at 2013 200s, and there are some great incentives right now ($3250 cash allowance), but my biggest problem with them is that the V6 models cost too much, and the I4 is WAY louder than my Corolla.
If you get a good deal up front and plan to keep the vehicle a while deprecation is not a big deal. On the other hand, If you pay top dollar and are looking to trade a few years down the road then it becomes more of a consideration.
General rule of thumb on used cars; whatever they are asking offer around 20% less and start negotiations there.
Since you're not under pressure to buy now take your time, kick some tires, shop around, go on test drives, see what kind offers are out there. However, play your cards close to the vest, don't reveal too much info about where you what to be on the trade in, etc.
Always focus on the final price of the car first, discuss trade ins after nailing down a firm price.
Thanks for this info, this is invaluable, and I can definitely utilize some of these tactics next time I am car hunting (be it for this, or if I give up for now, a few years down the road).
I think I will go on Thursday, and find out the deal. I doubt this was hurricane damaged, as we did not get anything more than a normal rainstorm from Sandy here in MA. The lien on the Autocheck looks to be the suspicious info here...
If the car looks good, and the drive is better than the I-4 I test drove, I'll offer a flat $18k for the car, and try to get $13,500 for my trade (this is the KBB, which I know has more than its fair share of problems, but being still a "buyer's market", I'll try to get them to that). That would leave a difference of $4,500 (probably $5k when they counter 18.5k or so on the sale price), and with my tax refund on the way, I may just pay cash (I own the Corolla outright).