Car Talk

Last time I blogged, I talked about creating financial options in advance of sitting down with the lucky car dealer.  After exploring a number of borrowing options, I lucked out.  For the first time in several years, I’m in debt.  The good news is the loan came from the Bank of Family at a most favourable interest rate.

Once the money was lined up it was time to go car shopping.  Before I get to the big money saving lessons I learned, I have to mention the stereotype car salesman exists.  I repeatedly told the sales person at a reputable dealership that I was not making a decision that day.  That did not stop him from repeatedly encouraging me to place my order that day “in order to get the car you want as soon as possible.”  Our failure to communicate cost him a sale.

What I did learn is ask for the fleet manager before talking to any sales types.  Fleet managers have the latitude to offer greater discounts than the typical salesperson and this fleet manager lived up to that reputation without resorting to any of the tactics listed above.  But, be warned, if you talk to a salesperson at that dealership first, the fleet manager will have nothing to do with you.

Once the deal for the vehicle has been negotiated, you are ushered to the business office to do the paperwork.  That’s where the real selling begins.
Car care packages costing $1,200.  Extended warantees worth requiring another $1,600.  Even the insurance salesman had third party added insurance packages protecting one from ICBC deductibles.  Can’t remember the price of that one, but it was more than a thousand for three years.  I don’t have a second’s regret for turning all of this down.

Despite that minor irritation - which I understand is the case at all dealerships - and if you’re looking for a new Honda I would be happy to connect you with fleet manager.  Just contact Nancy for the details.