Tips on Buying Cars: oppotune time for year-end model purchase, kelly blue book, kelly blue book value


Question
Hi Shari,
I am in the market for either a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, a mid-level model in their line up, in each case.

1. It appears now (August) some discount is happening for 2009 cars, with 2010 models coming on.  My wish is to get the best possible price on a 2009 car, without waiting so long that I miss out on them by the time the 2010s take over.  By August, would a 2009 model price lowering be as good as it will ever get?  Or, would I get substantially most saving if I waited until September or October, or even year end?
2. If I were to offer a one time full payment, without financing, would I get any leverage in price negotiation?  If pressed early for information on how much I am willing to spend, should I put off answering until later in the negotiation?
3. I have an old car (Kelly blue book value around $1,000) that I would like to trade in.  For a low value like that, does it matter whether I disclose right that I have a trade-in, or should I still put off trade-in talks until further into purchase?

Thank you.


Answer
Hi Glen...sorry for the delay in getting to you.

1) The Honda and Toyota are the best sellers out there. They will never sell under the invoice price no matter the time of year. Offer invoice and go from there. They may not take it as they can sell it anytime for more.

2) Dealers will lose money if you pay cash for a vehicle. They want the financing.

3) Get your best deal on the new vehicle and then offer the trade.

Let me know if I can help further and good luck