Category: Car Buying Advice

Only Get Price Quotes From Dealers That Have the Car In Stock

Hey there! Let’s discuss something that could save you a lot of headaches when shopping for a car: getting price quotes from dealers that actually have the vehicle in stock. It sounds simple, but trust me, after 25 years of helping folks with their car-buying decisions, I’ve seen too many people get tripped up by this. Let’s break it down in a way that’ll make sure you’re getting the best deal without any sneaky tricks.

Table of Contents Why You Should Only Get Price Quotes From Dealers With Stock

Here’s the deal: if a dealer gives you a price on a car they don’t even have on the lot, how can they be held to it? You can’t buy a car that’s not there, [...]

How To Find & Buy the Right Used Vehicle

Hey there! If you’re looking to buy a used car, I’ve got some advice to help you make the right choice. I’ve been in the car business for 25 years, and I’ve seen many people walk away with the perfect car (and some who didn’t). Whether it’s a Toyota or another brand, there are some key things to know before you walk into a dealership. So, let’s dive in!

Table of Contents Distinguishing Between New and Pre-Owned Vehicles

First, when you roll into a dealership, you’ll notice that the new and used cars are usually grouped separately. We, salespeople, need to make it obvious which cars are brand new and which are pre-owned, so no one’s misled.

As a salesperson, I want to be [...]

Never Trust Verbal Promises from Car Salesmen

Hey there! After spending 25 years as a Toyota Sales Consultant, I’ve seen just about every tactic in the book when it comes to selling cars. One thing I’ve learned? Never trust verbal promises from a car salesman. It might sound straightforward, but you’d be surprised how often people fall for it.

Let me explain why this is important, what tactics you might encounter, and how you can protect yourself. Don’t worry—it’s not as complicated as it sounds—just a few simple rules to keep in mind.

Table of Contents The Lowball Tactic: Verbal Price Quotes

You’re shopping for a new car, and the salesperson gives you a price that sounds almost too good to be true—probably because it is! This is called the “lowball offer.” Salespeople often throw out a low verbal [...]

Find The Car You Want To Buy: Check To See If It Is Available

When you’re looking to purchase a vehicle, the excitement can be overwhelming. You’ve done the research, found the model you love, and located a dealership that lists it in their inventory.

However, one critical step you should never overlook before hopping in your car and driving to the dealership is verifying the vehicle is actually available. It’s not enough for a vehicle to appear in the dealership’s inventory; you must confirm that it’s physically present on the lot and ready for you to test drive or purchase.

Skipping this step can lead to frustration and wasted time, and in some cases, dealerships may use this confusion to their advantage.

Table of Contents Why You Should Always Verify Availability

Just because a [...]

How to Outsmart A Car Salesman Like Me: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Confident Purchase

How can you outsmart a car salesman like me? Car shopping can be intimidating, especially when facing an experienced salesperson like me, who has heard it all and seen it all. I have all the answers ready for you when you ask. I’m polite, friendly, and sometimes charming. I’ve sold thousands of cars in my career, so how will you beat me at my own game?

Table of Contents Can You Outsmart The Car Salesmen?

What if I told you that the most powerful tool you have isn’t your budget or your negotiation skills—it’s your knowledge? When you walk into a dealership armed with an in-depth understanding of the vehicle and the market, you not only level the playing field but might even tip the [...]

Understanding the “No Cooling-Off Period”: What It Means for Car Buyers No Cooling-Off Period Disclaimer Sign for Vehicle Purchases in California

The “No Cooling-Off Period” means once you buy a car and drive it off the lot, you can’t return it just because you change your mind. Buying a car is a big decision, and it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of driving away in a new ride. But before you sign on the dotted line, it’s crucial to understand the details of the process—especially this little-known rule that can have a major impact on your purchase.

This blog post will explain what it is, why it matters, and how to ensure you make the right decision before committing. Be aware that all salespeople want you to commit to buying the car because it is part [...]