Tips on Buying Cars: Buying new car, buying a new car, ballpark figure

Question
I want to purchase a new car.  I want to do my homework before buying the car so was wondering how many times eg...toyota might raise their price over invoice price.  I heard that there are 2 invoice prices associated with a car?  Where can I find correct invoice price so salesman and I can negotiate?
Should I sell my old car on the street or trade it in when buying new?  I have never traded my old car in when buying new so don't want to get t aken by the salesman.  Sell on street or trade it in when buying new?

Thanks

Answer
Hi Gary

I really like your Q and will add did you ever wonder how a dealership can sell at invoice cost pay salesperson and still make a profit...it has to do with invoice kickbacks an area the average salesperson will have no knowleage

I like the fact you mentioned doing my homework and will therefore go into more detail

Most consumers will make an offer and the salesperson will submit to the manager whom is in control, if your good at negotiate and the offer goes back and forth a few times you may even get to meet him bringing out his crying towel...

The approch buying a new car is a lot easier than buying a used...here are the steps i would follow...get your best price with trade included and shop another dealer...these guys are sharp and unless your sharp yourselv will end up buying a car before having the chance to compare...
As for selling your car private you can get value at edmonds.com...but i would suggest you go autotraders.com punch in your zip code and compare your trade with others, it will give you an idea or ballpark figure what your trade should be worth
Good shopping Gary
  Regards
    Ray