Tips on Buying Cars: Toyota Rav4, toyota rav 4, hyundai santa fe

Question
I'm in love with the Toyota RAV 4. I would like to purchase an 06 but I don't want to spend more than 15grand before TTL.  I've started to glance at the 05 models. I want one that has around 30,000 miles. I'm finding the 05 models but alot of dealerships are asking alot more then I'm wanting to spend. The car it self even books for more than I'm wanting to spend. I was just wondering if my want is realistic or will I get laughed at?  

Answer
In my personal opinion, most used Toyotas are a little over-valued, thanks mostly to Consumer Reports glowing reports.  Toyota makes a fine product, don't get me wrong, but CR's influence causes many "non-car" types to go out and just pay whatever the dealer says, because CR says that's the car to buy.  I'd suggest two things:

1) Check out the used car values listed on Edmunds.com for that model, as they use "True Market Value" pricing.  In other words, they track what the vehicles actually SELL for in your area, not just what dealers are asking (which is pretty much what you find on Kelley Blue Book and NADA).

2) Are there any other models other than the RAV4 that you'd consider?  Lots of small SUVs on the market today, such as the Mazda Tribute/ Ford Escape/ Hyundai Santa Fe/ Kia Sportage, all of which are well-regarded in the marketplace.  You may be able to get one of those for quite a bit less than the highest-rated RAV4 or Honda CR-V.