For most folks Memorial Day kicks off the beginning of summer sales; CARS, Trucks, SUV’s and Mini-Vans lose their air-conditioning, need tires or are too small for the family road trip vacation.
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Welcome to Memorial Day CAR SALES EVENTS, I think this picture speaks volumes about the way most of us feel when starting out on this excursion to kick tires, test drive and negotiate (HAGGLE) their way to a new car DEAL.
The NOT-SO funny part about this annual gestation of pent-up demand is that THIS YEAR, the tables have turned and consumers will be hard pressed to find dealers ripping the shirt off their back to make a deal.
As one client said to me,
CUSTOMER: “They (the Japanese auto makers dealerships) have no inventory, so they should be anxious to make a deal. ” NOW how does this sound in playback?DEALER: “I have more customers than product and I’m going to GIVE IT AWAY to YOU at a DISCOUNT???”REALLY folks, get ready for a RUDE awakening. They may offer your crazy BIG $$$ for your old beater, but not a DIME off the MSRP or OVER MSRP on their car. The key to avoiding this situation is knowing what the deal is ahead of time, using a professional Car Buyers Agent or getting reasonable about your expectations and the the dealers ability to deliver popular models before Christmas.
The only exceptions: Ford and Mazda, some models of KIA, Chrysler and Jaguar, mostly leasing deals. DODGE RAM and FORD F150 big trucks. Forget Vans and SUV’s unless the choice is an ugly color or has too much equipment you don’t want to pay for. And remember, certain paints are not available because the mineral is from Japan.
The best deals around on the pre-owned= USED market are luxury brands 3-5 years old: 2006, 2007, 2008 USED BMW, Mercedes Benz, Audi.Also look for pre-owned leases on Porsche, Jaguar and BMW.
However, I would only buy/lease these cars with a Certified Pre-Owned Warranty, which gets you low interest rate financing that basically saves you enough interest to pay for the warranty.
Good luck and feel free to contact me at: ASKMYCARLADY@mycarlady.com any questions you have concerning credit, buying, leasing or servicing your next car.
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Sarah Lee is an automotive writer, personal car concierge and commercial fleet manager. If you need free advice on your car problem, question, issue, contact her at sarahlee@mycarlady.com,mvides422@gmail.com,carlady@cox.net for a confidential conversation.
She has over 22+ years of experience. She writes about Cars, and is a staunch consumer advocate on car related subjects.
MyCarlady offers private, auto-related services to help you maintain your personal or commercial vehicles. Call Sarah Lee for more information: 702-521-7546
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