u/djshartmonkey

I haven’t purchased a used car in 20+ years but will be soon. I’ve read several posts and articles that use “use data to negotiate” while other sources say to “offer 10-15% off the asking price”.

My question is how do I find actual sale price data? Is this even available?

Lacking any data, is offering 10-15% off the rule of thumb to follow? If so, how does this factor into certain dealerships pricing more aggressively?

For example, dealers A and B might price comparable cars a few thousand dollars apart. I can see how I can use A’s list price to negotiate with B, but what if A’s price is the lowest in the area…do I just offer 10-15% less?

Finally, when sorting by price on cars.com and other sites it isn’t unusual for Carmax to have the lowest price. I can’t imagine that given the no-haggle nature of Carmax they truly offer the lowest prices people end up paying.

Thanks!