How can I negotiate the price of a used car?

Buying a used car in UAE is not an easy thing to do, as there are many factors that can affect the process either positively or negatively. Negotiating the price of a used car can be the most challenging part of yo

ur car purchasing process. Both you and the seller will be looking for the ideal price. As a buyer, you will be looking to lower the price as much as you can, and as a seller, you will be looking for the most potential profit you can get.

If you are planning on buying a used car but have little experience in negotiating, you're at the risk of getting a bad deal that you may regret in the future. So, how does one get the best car deal? How to negotiate the car deal and get the best price possible? This article answers all the questions you have in mind. Whether you were buying from a dealership or from the internet, we recommend that you check out the following tips and advices.

Know the market prices for the desired car

One of the most important tips is that you need to do your research first and know the real value of the car you are considering. No matter what used car you want to buy, get a general idea of how the dealer's price compares with other similar offers in your area. If you are buying from the internet, you need to be extra careful, because some cars might be overpriced, so do your homework to get the best deal.

Choose the right dealership

Choosing the right dealership in your area depends mostly on individual experiences. If there is a popular one in your area you can check it out, but if you have no idea where to go, it is time to hit the internet to look for the best dealerships. You can also ask people in your city for an advice on which car dealership is the best.

Do your research before heading to the dealership

You need to have enough information about a used car you like before heading to the dealership. Having enough details about the cars you are going to take a look at will help you keep an open mind. Having no idea about the cars may put you at the risk of getting a bad deal. The dealership's manipulating ways and sweet talk might lead to an unpleasant car purchase. For example, if the used car you like doesn't have a specific feature, you'd know that its price is lower than similar other cars.

Take someone along

If you have never bought a used car before, it is wise to take an experienced friend along to help you out. More specifically, take a friend who knows all the tricks of the dealers and knows a lot about cars. This adds bonus points to your negotiation process and gives a better chance of getting a good deal.

Be direct and confident

If you found a used car that you like on the internet or anywhere else, it is time to contact the dealer. Once you do that, express your interest in the car clearly, and if you think there are some specific details that have been left out by the dealer, point them out. It is essential that you ask for a visual inspection and test drive. If you decided you want that car, be clear of your payment method as well. By being direct and confident, you get better chances in negotiating the price and getting the best deal.

Set your own conditions wisely

When buying a used car, there are some points that you should keep in mind in order to get the best price for it. Set you own conditions and leave your offer. You don't want the seller to know that you are inexperienced or naive. One important thing to keep in mind as well is that you need to contact the sellers in the right time. You can contact them on the last day of the month when they are willing to sell the car. If you are dealing with a dealership not an individual, contact them at the closing time where they might want to sell at least one unit before closing.

Be smart and patient

Negotiating a car deal with the experienced dealers is not an easy thing to do. It will definitely take some time before your dealer bends enough in your direction. With that being said, you should never lose patience while negotiating. Keep trying to get the price you want even if it takes days or weeks.

More importantly, the moment you start taking keen interest in a car, you wave goodbye to the chances of getting a decent price on it. If you really like the car, don't show extreme interest in it. Showing extreme interest will give the dealer a huge advantage and will lead to an overpriced car.

Keep in mind the possible future deals

Last but not least, if you plan on staying active in the used car market, aim for win-win situation when purchasing your first used car. This point is important for maintaining a good reputation that will likely help you in your future deals. While you would like to get the best deal ever, do not forget about the wellness of the other party. Negotiate reasonably and do not try to rip off the other party. This adds bonus points to your reputation and credibility, which can help you in the future.