It is no secret that car dealers will do everything that they can to get you to pay the highest price possible. Perhaps unfairly so, it is left to the consumer to ensure that they are getting a fair deal. There are many things that you can do to negotiate prices with car dealers and get the best car for the lowest price possible.

The first and most important step in negotiating with car dealers should occur before you ever walk onto the lot. You need to do your homework! With all of the web sites available today for checking on car values and negotiating tactics, this should be a piece of cake.

Make a portfolio using a simple folder and your printouts. Gather information about the car that you want to buy, decide which features are a must and which ones are negotiable, and determine the actual value of the car. You should also work out a detailed budget for yourself and the car. Keeping this printed budget in the folder will help you keep on track and avoid paying more than you can afford.

When you are fully armed with the knowledge you need to arm yourself with attitude. Walk onto the lot knowing two important facts. First, most people do not return to buy a car after they walk onto the lot. Second, car dealers are under pressure to sell cars as quickly as possible and get them off the lot.

Car dealers know both of these things, and you should keep them in mind as well. When you look at it in this manner, you really have all of the power. Start your negotiations with the car dealer with the attitude that you have the power, and you are in control of the sale. You do not need to pay more than you should or want to, because the dealer really needs your business.

When you are ready to start negotiations with the car dealers, make sure that you do not let them know about your personal preferences, needs, or desires. When car dealers are aware of this information they use it to push your buttons and get into your wallet. Make sure that you keep your emotions very close to you, and do not let the car dealer push you into a sale that you are not comfortable with.

Many experts agree that you should not start negotiating right after test driving the car. This is when your emotions will have the best of you. Go to the restroom, walk around the lot, or go to lunch. Look over your portfolio to get your attitude back, and then return to the car dealers for negotiations.

Here are a few other important things to remember. If the car dealers make any statements about not being able to negotiate on price, start walking away. They will stop you, and they will negotiate. Car dealers hate it when you pay cash because they lose money on the financing. Do not discuss how you will pay for the car until you have reached an agreement on price.