We’ve all heard the expression, “the early bird gets the worm.” With car leasing it’s “the educated consumer gets the best deal.” Arm yourself with the information you need to get the best leasing deal before visiting the dealership. Learn the basics of leasing and where to find the best leasing deals in your area.
Know the Cost: Before visiting the dealership learn the MSRP and factory invoice price of the vehicle you want. If you’re planning to trade-in your old vehicle, learn its current value. Print these out and take them with you.
Set the Price: Start by negotiating the price of the vehicle, negotiate up from the factory invoice price. Don’t let the dealer entice you with low monthly payments, you’re looking for the biggest savings overall.
What You Want: Tell the dealer how much you want to pay. Often dealers will ask you what kind of monthly payments you can afford and work from there. Discuss the complete price of the lease.
Be Cool: It’s difficult not to get excited about a new car, but try to remain calm and concentrate on the best deal. Letting the dealer know you are “in love” will only give him added advantage.
Take Control: Once you are ready to visit the dealership be clear. If you find a good leasing deal you will take it, if not you’ll look elsewhere. Remember you can shop around, compare prices, negotiate, and ultimately choose to do business elsewhere if a good deal isn’t provided.
If a dealer tells you lease prices cannot be negotiated it is untrue. If you cannot negotiate, tell the dealer you are going to his competitor.
Walk Away: Remember it’s your money and choice. If you are uncomfortable, leave. If you need to think through the deal, feel free to go home and return another day. Even if you just feel stressed or tired, take a break and resume negotiations another day.
Compare: It is worthwhile to compare multiple vehicles and dealerships. You can leverage competing offers to get the best deal.
Wait for the Contract: Don’t sign any agreements until you’ve agreed on a lease price. Don’t pay fees or deposits before you’ve signed the contract.
Some dealers will ask you for a deposit to “hold” the vehicle while you’re thinking over the deal.
If the dealer offers, do not take the new car home while you consider the deal. Wait to give the dealer your trade-in until the contract has been finalized as well.
Doing any of these before will only lead to headaches and confusion, but above all give the dealer an advantage.
Save Time & Money: Request a free leasing quote today and find the best leasing deals in your area in minutes. Connect with local pre-qualified dealers accustomed to negotiating educated consumers. Find internet only leasing specials and incentives!
