NADA vs. KBB?

[Vision67]

I usually refer to Edmunds.com for an appraisal.

Their method adjusts for location and condition and refers to actual sale prices. You will discover the real trade in value and you can learn how much of a savings you can expect to get by buying from a private sale vs dealer sale.

[MillerThyme]

Originally Posted by Vision67

I usually refer to Edmunds.com for an appraisal.

Their method adjusts for location and condition and refers to actual sale prices. You will discover the real trade in value and you can learn how much of a savings you can expect to get by buying from a private sale vs dealer sale.

Didn't think about Edmunds. I'll throw that into the mix because like you said "adjust for location...", the insurance company does something similar. They look around the are and take an average of what the vehicle is selling for and then cuts you a check for that amount.

[Aspe4]

OP, one tactic you may want to employ is negotiating via text messages. I did this with my last car purchase. The salesperson should be happy to give you his cell number, that way you don't feel any pressure and you can make offers from the comfort of your home or from your job, if you're able to text while at work.

[GeoffD]

Around me, I'd start with the Galves auction price. That's what the dealership is going to use to price a trade since it tells them what they'd get locally if they auction the trade off. Buying from a dealer, you then have to add in their reconditioning cost, overhead, and profit.