When you go to buy your new vehicle, who helps with the decision?  Other than a significant other, who should you ask to help you?

Opinions are like noses…..read on

I think this is more common when it comes to buying a used vehicle, car, truck, motorcycle etc.   You get an opinion from an outside person.  In the auto industry they are called “See Lawyers”.  These are the people that we consider experts on the mechanical workings of a vehicle, the value or the process of buying.   In many cases the facts get stretched or a problem is expected.    When someone tags along as an advisor they are almost obligated to find a potential problem.  If your friend is a mechanical “expert” they need to find something to justify their attendance.  The same is true for a value “Specialist”  or a negotiation “Guru”.  They must find a reason to Kibitz on your deal. 

So?  What can you do.  First, only get people involved (other than your significant other) who are truly knowledgable about the area they will advise.  If it is a mechanical check of the vehicle, take it to a professional garage and pay to have the vehicle professionally checked.  I recommend this to everyone buying a car or truck with over 12,000 miles or over 2 years old. 

If it is a value issue, educate yourself.   Check Kelly blue book or Edmonds and other expert guides, if possible.  Check the newspapers for like vehicles and get NADA pricing on-line.  If you are arranging your own financing, your banker can help with this information.  The dealer offering the vehicle will usually be more than willing to explain the pricing and show you the value books.

If your helper is a negotiation “Guru” then it is more of a gut feeling.  Get their advice but don’t let them do the talking.  The conversation should be you talking to the dealer.  Remember,  negotiation is a matter of opinion as well as fact.  Often, a Negotiator feels they need to be rude in their approach.  Rudeness is never the answer and it will only hurt the deal.  This blog will give you some good advice on the buying process as well.

Generally an honest and sincere “See Lawyer” might be able to help but you do the talking and be sure to educate yourself.