How to score a great deal on a vehicle

Grand Rapids, Mich (WOTV) - When buying a car, it’s always best to prepare yourself with as much information needed to make the best decision for yourself, your family and your financial situation.

The best time to buy a car is when you’re in the best negotiating position. The time of the month or year when you shop for a new car really does matter. Dealerships and individual salespeople have monthly quotas to meet. So in the last few days of a month, they’re especially eager to make deals. In late summer and into the fall as the next year’s models are about to go on sale, buying a leftover vehicle from the current model year can add up to huge savings!

Shopping at the right time can really boost your chances of getting a good car deal. But if you’re not prepared with research and thoughts on a reasonable target price, you aren’t likely to make the most of your good timing.

Fortunately, websites can make it easier to find cost information that can help you be ready with a dealer to deal on a given model. Websites like Kelley Blue Book , Edmunds and MSN Autos show the dealer cost or invoice price in addition to the list price or manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP). Whenever you’re shopping, always start negotiating from the invoice price, not the MSRP. Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds can also show what typical consumers actually paid for a given model in your region based on your zip code.

If you're looking for more information on vehicle loans check out First Community Federal Credit Union's Loan Page .

Topics are intended to be general and informational in nature and should not be construed as legal advice. Each person’s individual situation is different; members should consult a legal professional related to legal matters.