How low can you go?

[mommyof2kids]

Im looking to buy a minivan in a couple weeks and am doing my research prior. I have narrowed it down to the caravan, quest and town & country, probably a used with less than 20,000miles, 2007-2008 model. Most of the ones Im finding in the Sarasota Florida area are around $13000-14000, how much can I bargain on this price? I know the automotive industry is hurting but im not sure to what extent and how much I can haggle the price down? should i start seriously low and work my way up? please help

i am paying cash as well!

['97ventureowner]

I'm not sure how much lower the dealer would be willing to go as the prices they are offering now are quite low. What type of dealer is offering these vehicles, a "regular new car dealer that offers used cars as well, or one that "specializes" in used cars such as those that were once buy backs, former rentals, or auction purchases? If it is the latter of the 2 then there may not be much more room for negotiation of a lower price. Also the vans in question are pretty much popular, mass produced vehicles, so their values will be lower as a result. Over the past decade, there has been a rise in dealers that specialize in used cars and make their money on volume,(how many they can move out the door.) They run frequent promotions and offer low prices along with financing for hard to finance individuals. From my experiences they tend to price their vehicles low enough so they won't have to haggle on price with the consumer. Depending on the dealer or the salesperson, you might be able to eek out a lower price, and it might be worth a shot. I bought my 2006 Uplander at a dealer like this . It had a little over 8000 miles on it and the price was $16995(list price was over $28,000). I was able to negotiate a $500 savings, paying $16495 for it. The latest commercials for this dealer show a 2008 edition of the same vehicle that normally listed for $28,000 currently selling for $14,995. Since you are paying cash that might also work to your advantage. Offer a lower price for cash and be prepared to walk out the door if they don't want to bargain, and see what happens. If the industry continues to suffer, then you're chances may be better at obtaining a lower price.

[Ray paulsen]

[quote='97ventureowner]
Since you are paying cash that might also work to your advantage. Offer a lower price for cash and be prepared to walk out the door if they don't want to bargain, and see what happens.

99% of the time I find your post's interesting with true facts, but what is a forum without controversy.

What makes you think paying cash might work ?

Here is a link why I think paying cash don't work http://www.usedcartips.org/CASH.html

['97ventureowner]

Ray, given the current state of the economy and the auto industry, consumers who have cash to buy a vehicle might have an advantage, especially if the dealer is hurting and willing to make deals they may have not considered in the past just to get vehicles out the door. Add to that an uncertain banking/financing industry where more consumers are being denied credit that never have before and one can quickly see where cash may be king . In my area, many dealers whose ads have always touted "we finance those that are hard to finance" are backing off on those ads. Loan approvals are being tightened and fewer are being accepted which can cause less traffic in the showroom, and lead dealers to do things they may have never considered just to get inventory sold.There have been news reports claiming those with cash for purchase hold an advantage in this economy and can make out quite well. Also taking on any new debt in today's economy when you don't really have to may not be a good idea, especially on something that doesn't hold it's value too well. Paying cash ,if you can afford to, can keep you from assuming more debt.