Like any other consumer product, there’s a “high season” and a “low season” for buying cars. Just so we don’t confuse you, the seasons for buying cars is the exact opposite of car sales; the science behind this theory is simply that, the less the number of people looking for cars, the more eager the car salesman will want to sell cars, thus, the better the price (for the buyers, of course.) So, check out the following information if you would like to know what time would be a “good time” to buy a new car.
- Early in the week: Most people shop on weekends when dealerships are full and salespeople are busy. By avoiding the crowd, you can get the salesperson’s undivided attention.
- Late in the day: Like any other working human being, car salespeople are anxious to get home by this time, and will NOT want to spend hours negotiating a sale. So, if you’ve done your homework, and already know exactly what car you are looking for, this would be a great time to pay dealerships a visit. However, please do keep in mind that this is not a good time to go randomly browsing; it will just annoy the salespeople and lessen the likelihood for you getting a deal done.
- End of month/quarter: Dealers and car sales all have monthly/quarterly sales goals that they must meet to get bonuses; therefore, this time would be a good time to go look for salespeople who have yet to meet their goals. It is true that you may easily run into a salesperson that has already surpassed their goal, but it doesn’t hurt to try, right?
- When new models come out: Usually new model year vehicles come out somewhere at the end of summer. At this time, dealers usually want to make room for the new inventory; this makes them more willing to get rid of the current inventory at a price YOU want. So, do your research, find out when the new model of the car you want is coming out, and go pay the dealership a visit just before this time.
- End of year: At this time, dealerships are trying to meet year-end quotas that could reduce fees and taxes on year-end inventory. Plus, sales people are trying to meet year-end quotas that may get them bigger holiday bonuses. On top of that, incoming newer models may be in greater supply, making their pricing more flexible. It’s the perfect combination for new-car shoppers looking to find a great deal on their next new car.
Put Yourself in Their Shoes . . .
Think in the perspective of a car salesperson: at what times would you want to get a deal done and not care much about the mark-up? If you have the answer, go to a dealership at that time, and chances are you’ll probably be correct. Happy car shopping!
