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For many people, driving a hard bargain during the current period of world recession has become something of a routine. Suddenly, life is all about necessities and the purchase of luxury items is slowing down to a virtual standstill.

Next to a house, a car is the second largest investment most people will make in a lifetime. During the current economic slump most car buyers are opting for a used model and in most cases the cheaper the car, the better!

So how exactly do you go about purchasing a car at auction prices?

Probably the safest bet is buying from franchised dealerships, which have approved schemes and focus on one or two particular makes of car meaning they should be able to source the exact type of model you’re looking for. Vehicles will be thoroughly checked and are always clean and presentable.

Independent dealers are another good choice, and there will be a wider choice of models on display although quality may vary. Some may even need extra work carrying out.

Car Supermarkets work on a principle of selling in volume so prices are low and the range is normally extensive with a full range of dealer benefits.

Private sales are a little more unpredictable, with quality varying greatly. There’s also the risk of having virtually no comeback if something goes wrong as soon as you buy it.

If you do decide to buy privately, always find out as much information about the vehicle as possible. Establish whether they’re a private seller or small trader, and find out about the number of previous keepers, mileage, condition, paperwork, service history, running problems, modifications and whether or not the vehicle has been involved in any accidents.

When viewing, check the car thoroughly and act confidently when doing so. Don’t appear too enthusiastic. This will help you to cut a better deal later on. Be sure to point out dent, scratches or rust spots as well, even if they don’t concern you greatly. Make comparisons to models you’ve seen in better condition that are available for sale and pay careful attention to glass, brakes, tyres, lights, suspension and the engine. Picking out even the smallest of faults can drive the price down.

If you’re ultimately happy with the car and the correct paperwork is in place, don’t be afraid to haggle over the price. Dealers and sellers expect this anyway so don’t be backwards in coming forwards!

Add up the amount of defects and take them from the asking price. You can go as low as you like, but expect some resistance from the seller. Use silence and disinterest as tactics and if a seller says they can’t let it go for the price you’ve offered, ask them what price they will sell it for then knock a little off of that and make a fresh offer.

Be prepared to use a higher authority for advice, such as a knowledgeable friend or mechanic. Have a final offer in your head so at the very worst, you can walk away knowing you did your best to save money.

Haggling may be a little uncomfortable, but getting the car at the price you want to pay makes the awkwardness worthwhile.

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Source by Leo Fitzpatrick