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Spelling out what you want in a car
By Bankrate.com
Oh, the joys of buying a car: the sales pitches, the negotiating, the waiting while your sales rep goes to talk with the manager.
But if you know what you are looking for, you can dramatically cut the time you spend at the dealership and eliminate some of the headaches associated with purchasing a new or used auto. This approach also could save you some money, especially when you use the strategy to compare the prices that various dealerships are willing to accept.
The process is simple. First, put your auto wants and needs on paper. Then transfer them to a detailed letter you send, preferably by fax, to dealers that have the vehicle you want. Per your letter, the dealers will let you know whether they can fulfill your auto needs at the price you're willing to pay or whether you'll need to keep looking.
Use the form letter below and before you know it,
your dream car will be in your driveway. Personalize it by entering
your auto specifics in the areas in red.
You can print out this Web page and make your changes by hand or copy the body of the letter and paste it into a document where you can make your changes on your PC.
Date
Name of dealership
Attention: Sales/Fleet Manager's Full Name
Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Re: Vehicle purchase
Dear Mr. or Ms. Sales/Fleet
Manager Name:
After examining various dealerships, I have decided
to purchase a new or used car make and model.
I want some specific features on the car. In
this paragraph, describe the features you would want. Include the
make of the car, the year, color and power options. Be precise.
Remember, if you are not specific don't expect the dealer to meet
your requirements.
My research has led me to determine that I should
be able to purchase this auto for the price
you are willing to pay. The dealer will work from this figure.
I will get back to you in number
of days. Until then, I will be contacting other dealers interested
in my business. After my initial bid is selected, I will lock in
financing for the auto's purchase within number
of days.
If your dealership is interested in my offer, please be sure to include all dealer-added costs and list them according to the options that I requested. If you offer an alternative option package that would be a better value, please list it as a separate bid.
I have had no personal contact with this dealership or specific sales representative so this would be a "house" sale. I feel any other way would be unfair to other employees.
Should you choose to respond to my bid with an offer,
please fax the information to me at fax number.
I will not be accepting bids after date your
offer is no longer in effect.
Thank you for taking time to assist me with my vehicle purchase. I look forward to your prompt response and the possibility of doing business with your dealership.
Sincerely,
Your signature
Your printed name
Your mailing address
your phone number
your fax number
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