Question-------------------------
Followup To
Question -
Steve - I'm looking at purchasing a 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe, AUTO 4Door, V6 2.7L 2WD GLS model, loaded, 46K miles, from an individual. I've seen a photo of the vehicle and it looks CLEAN! He wants $11,200 for it, which is a tad above my $10K threshold. Other than test driving it and finding out if he owns it outright, what else should I be asking? Am I correct to assume he may be "highballing" the price? Also have you heard anything (good/bad) about this make/model of vehicle? Any recalls, etc?? I appreciate any info you can provide. Thanks!
Answer -
Hi,
Its a good vehicle, average miles, i would ask for the vin # and do a carfax, that will tell you how many owners, recalls and if the vehicle had any major accidents and damage...If all seems o.k...offer him $10,250.00, then tell him based on your research you feel it is a very fair price, if he squawks, tell him it is a solid offer and you are serious, then if you really want it make a ONE TIME, walk away offer of $10,500.00 and no more...let me know what happens and good luck!
STEVE
Steve - if I really like the vehicle (after I've test-drove it, and looked it over in & out), would you recommend me taking it to a Hyundai dealer and have a mechanic do a thorough inspection on it BEFORE I tossed out the $10,250 offer (my thought being if there was something mechanically wrong w/the vehicle that would give me leverage to knock the price down)? Or here's another option: What do you think about me offering him $10K IN CASH? After I sprung my offer on him I would reach in my pocket and flash him the cabbage. I would think if he saw the green, it'd be a hard temptation to resist. Does this trick work? What's your thoughts?
Answergo to a neighborhood mechanic, Hyundai, may not be objective because they would want to sell you a car.....If all checks out, yes you can 'show him the money", but i suggest you are not alone and do it in a place where you are safe...Also, if he does not have the title, it may be a bit tough...Keep me informed...GOOD LUCK,
STEVE
