Savvy Car Buyers Reveal the Secrets to Negotiating the Best DealStaying informed and prepared is the key to getting the best possible deal when purchasing a new car. One woman has taken to TikTok to share her tips and strategies for negotiating like a pro, helping her save thousands on her latest vehicle purchase.

Unlock the Insider Strategies for Scoring the Lowest Price on Your Next Car

Bring in Backup - The Power of Playing Good Cop, Bad Cop

When it comes to car negotiations, you can't go it alone, even if you consider yourself a seasoned pro. Roxy Scarborough, a TikTok creator with a knack for savvy shopping, emphasizes the importance of bringing a second person along for the ride. "You cannot do this alone, even if you are smart, you know the industry, you know everything, you still want to bring a second person," she advises. Scarborough explains that this dynamic allows you to "play good cop, bad cop" - a tactic that is integral to the negotiation game.The role of the second person is to be the "disagreeable" one, someone who can convince you that you don't actually need the vehicle. This creates a strategic tension that can work to your advantage, as the salesperson attempts to navigate the differing viewpoints and find a compromise. By having a partner in crime, you're able to present a united front and leverage the power of teamwork to secure the best possible deal.

Do Your Homework - The Importance of Preparation

Preparation is key when it comes to car negotiations, and Scarborough has a wealth of advice to share. First and foremost, she stresses the importance of knowing exactly what you want. "Number one, you need to know what you really want," she says. This means having a clear understanding of the make, model, and features that are essential to you.Next, Scarborough emphasizes the need to research the pricing of the car you're interested in. She recommends walking the lots on Sundays, when they're less crowded, to get a sense of the going rates. Additionally, she suggests checking out other dealerships and scouring online listings to get a comprehensive view of the market.Putting in this legwork upfront gives you a significant advantage when it comes time to negotiate. You'll be armed with the knowledge and data you need to make an informed decision and push for the best possible price.

Timing is Everything - The Power of Patience

Scarborough's negotiation tactics extend beyond just preparation - she also encourages buyers to be strategic about the timing of their purchase. In her TikTok series, she reveals that waiting until the end of the month can increase the likelihood of scoring a great deal."Waiting until the end of the month can increase the likelihood of getting a great deal on your purchase," she explains. This is because dealerships often have monthly sales targets they're trying to hit, and they may be more willing to negotiate aggressively as the deadline approaches.Additionally, Scarborough advises against revealing your desired monthly payment amount. "These guys are sneaky, and they can take the number, and divide it up over 90 months," she cautions. Instead, she recommends focusing the negotiation on the total loan amount, interest rate, and term - factors that can have a significant impact on the overall cost of the vehicle.By leveraging the power of timing and maintaining a laser-like focus on the big picture, car buyers can gain a strategic edge in the negotiation process.

Avoid the Emotional Trap - Stay Detached and Focused

One of the biggest pitfalls in car negotiations, according to Scarborough, is falling in love with the vehicle. "You've got to be willing to walk away multiple times, or you will pay more," she warns.It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding the perfect car, but Scarborough cautions against letting your emotions cloud your judgment. Remaining detached and focused on the numbers is crucial to ensuring you get the best possible deal.Scarborough also advises buyers to be wary of the "finance guy," who she describes as "just another salesperson." This individual, she says, makes a commission on add-ons and interest rates, so it's important to scrutinize any financing offers with a critical eye.By staying cool, calm, and collected throughout the negotiation process, car buyers can avoid falling into the emotional traps that can lead to overpaying.

Leverage the Power of Knowledge and Persistence

Ultimately, Scarborough's negotiation strategies boil down to one key principle: knowledge is power. By arming themselves with information, car buyers can level the playing field and negotiate from a position of strength.Whether it's researching prices, bringing a partner, or timing the purchase strategically, Scarborough's tips empower consumers to take control of the negotiation process and walk away with the best possible deal."You need to be focused on the amount of the total loan, the interest rate, and the term," she advises. "And don't forget that the finance guy is just another salesperson. He makes a commission on add-ons and interest rates."By harnessing the power of information and persistence, car buyers can navigate the often-daunting world of vehicle negotiations with confidence and savvy. With Scarborough's insider secrets, the dream of driving off the lot with the perfect car and the perfect price is well within reach.