Some things to keep in mind
Carmax and like-minded volume dealers are "no-haggle" dealers, which means the price they advertise or offer is all you're getting. In my experience, I don't mess with those people.
Most other dealers will haggle or deal. Decide before you hit the showroom what you're willing to pay. Figure out the price point (remember to add a couple thousand in your head for taxes and title), possible insurance, and if you're financing, figure out the lowest interest rate you qualify given your credit (get a credit report, shop around at different banks), and decide on a loan term (length) that you can live with (3, 5, 7 yrs, whatever). If you're buying new, look for the invoice price of the vehicle, and try to negotiate the price as close to that as possible, possibly lower. Even if you buy the vehicle at invoice, car companies can offer bonuses for sales volume.
Timing has a lot to do with how willing they are to deal, as well. Shop at the end of the month. That's when they're more interested in pushing units out the door. If shopping for a sports car, buying the current year's model at the end of the year, during winter, while next year's models are on teh lots, is a great way to get a deal.
Also, the less picky you are about options, color, etc, the better your position is. And never tell them you're looking to buy now, or out of necessity. Don't be afraid to stick to your guns, and remember, you can always walk away from a deal until ink is on paper.
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